When we kicked off our 100 Year Celebration on January 7, we promised you that a few good things were on the way: mobile services, programs in the community so people who can’t get to a library can still take advantage of what we have to offer, and a commitment to elevating community conversations with fun and fascinating events featuring top-notch authors and speakers.
Nearly a year later, I’m proud to say that we’ve accomplished what we set out to do. Our two new book bicycles are on the road, bringing literature and library joy into neighborhoods from Winter Garden to Parramore. Our Community Engagement Department is hosting storytimes, crafts and experiences in Head Starts, hospitals and senior centers. We have hosted multiple fascinating authors, from Kwame Onwuache to R.L. Stine to Julia Quinn to Neil Gaiman and Art Spiegelman.
In the meantime, we’re sharing some photos from our official 100th birthday celebration, held on November 8, where we invited members of the community to enjoy a cookie on us and write a birthday card to OCLS. We have collected literally hundreds of cards, thanking us for our century of service and urging us to continue the work we’re doing in the community.
Reading those messages inspires me to keep working to make our library system the best it can possibly be, so I wanted to share a couple of my favorites with you here.
“Thank you, OCLS! From my first chapter book, to college classes, you’ve always been there, helping me find what I needed. You’ve helped me share reading, first with my students, and later with my daughter. You make a difference every day.”
“Thank you for building bridges and connecting us to opportunities that help impact our future!”
“Thank you for bringing hope, dreams and comfort to people’s lives.”
