OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma House of Representatives has approved House Resolution 1054, designating April 2026 as Library Month in Oklahoma.

The resolution was filed by Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa, and recognizes the role libraries play in supporting education, workforce development, access to technology and community engagement across the state.

April 29 was also observed as Library Day at the Capitol, hosted by McCane in partnership with the Oklahoma Libraries Association and the Oklahoma Department of Libraries. The event provided an opportunity for residents, library professionals and lawmakers to connect and discuss the impact of library services.

“I am so excited to host the first ever Library Day at the Capitol to help advocate for our libraries and library staff,” McCane said. “Together, we can ensure that libraries continue to thrive and serve as vital resources for generations to come.”

State officials emphasized that libraries serve as critical community resources, offering educational programming, workforce support and access to information. They also highlighted libraries as “third places,” providing spaces for community interaction outside of home and work.

Library representatives from across Oklahoma participated in the event, showcasing programs such as early literacy initiatives and STEM education opportunities, particularly in rural areas.

Officials said the designation and event aim to raise awareness of the role libraries play in improving literacy, supporting communities and expanding access to resources statewide.

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — A former Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper accused of raping and sexually assaulting a woman during a traffic stop has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Court records show Jarqez Evans is charged with first-degree rape and forcible oral sodomy in connection with a traffic stop in January 2025.

READ MORE: Oklahoma trooper arrested for sexual assault after alleged traffic stop incident

The incident reportedly happened when Evans stopped a vehicle at S.E. 29th and S. High Avenue. The victim told investigators that Evans told her she could follow him down the street or go to jail for driving under suspension and without insurance.

After following Evans to S.E. 31st and High, Evans entered the victim’s front passenger seat. The victim then drove further south and parked.

Officials said at that point, Evans allegedly unzipped his pants and instructed the victim to perform a sex act on him. He then asked the woman to bend over, at which point he allegedly sexually assaulted her.

READ MORE: Dash cam: former Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper charged with rape after traffic stop

Then, Evans returned to his vehicle without issuing any citations to the victim.

The victim reported the sexual assault to the Oklahoma City Police Department.

Officers collected evidence before handing over the investigation to OHP’s Criminal Investigations Section.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol said it received the complaint and placed Evans on administrative leave shortly afterward.

Following an investigation, Evans was arrested and his employment was terminated.

“The Oklahoma Highway Patrol values the trust placed in us by the citizens we serve,” OHP said in a statement. “When that trust is called into question, we take appropriate action in accordance with our policies and the law, regardless of position or rank.”

On Wednesday, Evans pleaded not guilty to the charges during his arraignment.

The case moved to a pretrial conference, set for August, and his bail was listed at $100,000.