Library Corner | By Melissa Stillman, President, Friends of the Orange County Library System | Photos courtesy of Orange County Library System
There’s so much to love about Orange County Library System, and I enjoy sharing about the books I’m reading, inviting others to the classes and events I’m attending, posting library news on my socials and counting down to new branches opening. As president of the Friends of the Orange County Library System, a community-based group that supports our libraries, I believe everyone should have access to the rich resources, educational opportunities and cultural experiences a great library system provides.
The Friends of the Library make it possible for the Orange County Library System to improve the quality and scope of its services. As advocates for and champions of the library, the Friends help provide funding for youth literacy initiatives including Prime Time Family Reading and Summer at Your Library, scholarships for staff development, special author events and education and technology resources and programs.
Last month, tickets went on sale to An Evening with Nicholas Sparks, the next installment in the Lillian Louise Pharr Author Series, which the Friends are proud to sponsor. As one of the world’s most beloved authors, Sparks will no doubt draw a wide and enthusiastic audience. This exciting community event comes to the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts on January 17 and will give insight into his inspirations, writing style and books to movies magic. If you haven’t purchased a ticket, hurry before they are gone!
Beyond major events, it’s the everyday opportunities at OCLS branches that truly make our library system shine. Each location offers something unique, and I love seeing how each branch serves its community. On November 1, Windermere focuses on environmental stewardship with an E-Recycling Event from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring your unwanted home or office electronics and dispose of them easily and responsibly. On November 12, Windermere offers classes to support a healthy body and mind: at 10:30 a.m., relax and learn the gentle movements of Tai Chi Chuan and at 3:30 p.m. receive careful instructions on the right way to check and monitor your blood pressure with hands-on demonstrations. You can even check out a blood pressure monitoring kit to take home. You can find information on all these programs and much more at ocls.org.
Like your library, the Friends of the Library are made up of caring, involved individuals who believe that a great library makes for a stronger community. By becoming a Friend, you’re helping ensure that more people can benefit from everything OCLS has to offer—whether it's through literacy programs, cultural events or access to vital resources.
We invite you to join us in supporting this incredible library system. Together, we can continue to build a library—and a community—that serves, inspires and connects us all.
Good Friends make Great Libraries. Become a Member Today!
Friends of the Orange County Library System | friends.ocls.org
