
100 Year Celebration
In 2023, Orange County Library System celebrates 100 years of service to the community. The Albertson Public Library opened its doors for the first time on November 8, 1923, and over the years, that single library building evolved to become the library system we operate today. All year long, we’ll be hosting special events and programs that illuminate our history and enhance our present. Bookmark this page to find out about special 100 Year Celebration music events, fiber arts projects, virtual reality experiences and signature author series.
The beginnings of the current Orange County Library System can be traced to the circulating library collection of the Sorosis Club of Orlando.
At the opening of the Albertson Public Library on November 8, 1923, the books available to the public included about 3,000 books donated by the Sorosis Club and 12,000 donated by Captain Charles Albertson.
Find out more about who Captain Albertson was from his personal accounts to newspaper reports of his life and actions.
Learn about the library’s first bookmobile, which was made possible with the support of the Sorosis of Orlando Woman’s Club and the Friends of the Orange County Library System in 1949.
Learn about Olive Brumbaugh, the first head librarian of the Albertson Public Library, and how she guided the library through it’s first 20 years.
Eddie T. Jackson was appointed to serve as Head Librarian of the Booker T. Washington Branch in 1924, becoming the first Black librarian in Orlando. Click here to learn about her legacy.
Upcoming Events
100 Year Reading Challenge
Log your reading, write book reviews, and complete activities all year long to earn badges and enter for the chance to win a prize.
More Articles
Library Kicks Off 100 Year Celebration >
The History of Orange County Library System: Proud Past, Bright Future >