Closing the Book: Bethia Owens Retires After 42 Years of Service

Wednesday, September 17, 2025 — After more than 42 years of dedicated service to the Eastern Oklahoma Library System (EOLS), Librarian Bethia Owens is set to retire.

A retirement celebration in her honor will be held on Tuesday, September 30, at 11 a.m. at the Stanley Tubbs Memorial Library in Sallisaw.

Owens devoted 22 years to serving the Sallisaw community, in addition to her tenure as manager of the Muldrow Public Library, where she played a key role in fundraising and overseeing the construction of the new facility, which opened in 1998.

Throughout her career, Owens led efforts by expanding youth programming, hosting cultural events, and securing health literacy grants that benefited residents across Sequoyah County.

In addition, Oklahoma State University recognized Owens' lasting contributions to rural communities by awarding her the Rural Renewal Citizenship Prize in 2023.

The public is invited to attend the reception and join in celebrating Owens’ leadership and achievements as she embarks on the next chapter of her life.

Lindsie Dyer, Staff Writer

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