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.
You're Invited:
Wednesday, November 8 - All Locations
Orange County Library System turns 100 and YOU'RE INVITED to celebrate with us. Stop by any library location from October 25 to November 8 and fill out a birthday card for us to display. On November 8, visit your favorite branch and get a cookie, while supplies last.
History of the Orange County Library System
The beginnings of the current Orange County Library System can be traced to the circulating library collection of the Sorosis Club of Orlando.
Albertson Public Library: In the beginning
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.
Captain Charles Albertson
Find out more about who Captain Albertson was from his personal accounts to newspaper reports of his life and actions.
Friends of the Library
Since their founding in 1949, the Friends of the Orange County Library System has displayed a commitment to supporting library services through a legacy of giving. Learn about their history of supporting the library.
Clara Wendel & the Construction of Orlando Public Library
On February 1, 1943, Clara Wendel became Orange County Library System’s second library director. Clara was 39 years old when she was selected for the position, and OCLS – still the Albertson Public Library at the time – was celebrating its 20th anniversary.
The History of Orange County Library System: Home Delivery
Travel back to the 1970s as we highlight the humble beginnings of one of the library’s most celebrated services: Home Delivery!
Glenn Miller and the Orlando Public Library Expansion
Learn about former library director Glenn Miller and his successful campaign to expand the Orlando Public Library building and community services.
Featured 100 Year Celebration Upcoming Events
South Creek Branch (Meeting Room)
Event Categories: General Events; Storytime
Adventures can be had both inside the pages of a book and out. Discover new words and new worlds with your child as we sing, talk and play during storytime to connect and foster a love for reading!
Learn more>South Creek Branch (Meeting Room)
Event Categories: Arts & Crafting
Unleash your inner artist and discover your creative side in this all-ages art exploration. Inspiration is a must! Recommended for families with a child 6 years or older.
Learn more>Percy Jackson Perler Keychains
Part of Percy Jackson Week
Alafaya Branch (Meeting Room)
Event Categories: Arts & Crafting
Celebrate the new Percy Jackson Disney+ TV show with us by making a perler bead keychain inspired by your favorite Olympians! Recommended for ages 9 and up. Registration required.
Learn more>Winter Garden Branch (Winter Garden - Program Area)
Event Categories: Arts & Crafting
Celebrate the library's 100th anniversary with art using book pages. All supplies provided.
Learn more>Orlando Public Library (Albertson Room)
Event Categories: General Events
This series explores film through each of the decades our Library has been open! Celebrate the history of film every single month here at the Downtown Library.
Learn more>West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center (Sarchet Community Room)
Event Categories: Arts & Crafting; Education & Learning; Games & Activities
Connect and collaborate with others through games and competitions, while showcasing your storytelling skills at the celebration of the century! Recommended for ages 9-12.
Learn more>Cuisine Corner Junior: Blue Foods!
Part of Percy Jackson Week
Alafaya Branch (Meeting Room)
Event Categories: Cooking & Food; Life Skills
Celebrate the new show with blue foods, just like Percy's mom used to make! Recommended for ages 6-12. Registration for each child required.
Learn more>Orlando Public Library (Papa Bear)
Event Categories: Cooking & Food; Education & Learning; History, Culture, Genealogy; Life Skills
What did people eat 100 years ago? Celebrate the library's 100th birthday by making a tasty recipe that is just as old! Recommended for families with children 6-8.
Learn more>Fantasy Map Making
Part of Percy Jackson Week
Alafaya Branch (Meeting Room)
Event Categories: Arts & Crafting
Use your imagination and art skills to create a map and bring a new fantasy world to life! Registration required for each child. Recommended for ages 9-12.
Learn more>100 Years of Cinema
The Little Mermaid
Event Categories: Music, Movies, Live Performances
Dive on Under the Sea! This month, we're watching The Little Mermaid (2023) to celebrate 100 years of cinema with this new take on a classic!
Learn more>Thank you to our sponsor:
