Grace M. Pickens Public Library 

Receives Math Engagement Grant Through 

Simons Foundation’s “Infinite Sums” Initiative.

Holdenville — The Holdenville Public Library has been selected as the only library in Oklahoma to receive a prestigious national grant recognizing innovative library workers who will lead engaging math programs throughout 2026. The award places Holdenville among just 20 libraries nationwide chosen for their commitment to expanding community access to creative, meaningful math experiences.

The Holdenville Public Library will partner with the Association for Rural and Small Libraries (ARSL), the Simons Foundation, and SciStarter to host math-inspired, community-wide events for patrons of all ages on Pi Day, Infinity Day, and Fibonacci Day in 2026. As part of the grant, Library Director Kim McNaughton will participate in a year-long national cohort that includes both virtual and in-person training.

Cohort members are required to attend monthly virtual sessions, as well as two in-person events: the Simons Foundation’s Convening in New York City, taking place January 25–26, 2026, and the ARSL 2026 Conference in Montgomery, Alabama, scheduled for September 17–19, 2026.

Throughout the year, the Holdenville Public Library will host community celebrations on Pi Day (3/14), Infinity Day (8/8), and Fibonacci Day (11/23). Each of the 20 selected libraries will receive $10,000 to support hands-on activities, public programming, and math-themed events designed to inspire learners of all ages.

This national program is made possible through the Simons Foundation’s Infinite Sums initiative, which aims to broaden public understanding of mathematics and strengthen community engagement across the country.

This work is supported by the Simons Foundation and is part of its “Infinite Sums” initiative. For more information, visit infinitesums.simonsfoundation.org.

The Simons Foundation’s Science, Society & Culture division seeks to provide opportunities for people to forge a connection to science — whether for the first time or a lifetime. Through our initiatives, we work to inspire a feeling of awe and wonder, foster connections between people and science, and support environments that provide a sense of belonging. The Simons Foundation’s mission is to advance the frontiers of research in mathematics and the basic sciences. Since its founding in 1994 by Jim and Marilyn Simons, the foundation has been a champion of basic science through grant funding, support for research, and public engagement. We believe in asking big questions and providing sustained support to researchers working to unravel the mysteries of the universe.