Library Corner | By Steve Powell, Library Director/CEO, Orange County Library System | Photos Provided by Orange County Library System
As the country kicks off its 250th anniversary celebrations this month, July sparks America 250-dedicated programming throughout your Orange County Library System.
Head downtown to Orlando Public Library and celebrate with a patriotic creation like your very own Shrinky Dink Fireworks Magnet on Wednesday, July 1, at 5:30 p.m., or prepare for the path toward U.S. Naturalization with Citizenship Inspired in person at your Windermere Branch on Thursday, July 2, at 3 p.m. or online on Tuesday, July 7, at 2 p.m.
Curious about your family’s past 250? Explore your ancestry with HeritageQuest Online, a comprehensive collection of genealogical information dating back to the 1700s. Staff at the nearby West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center can provide personalized assistance along with access to more than 30,000 genealogy books.
Meanwhile, Summer at Your Library is in full swing at your Windermere Branch, and there’s no better way to battle the dreaded “summer slide” than with a good book.
There’s still time to complete our summer reading challenge! Just a few minutes of reading each day can help you retain knowledge, deepen comprehension, and boost problem-solving skills. So, pick up this year’s official summer reading booklet and track your progress for a chance to win special prizes. Kids aged 18 and younger may pick up one free book, while supplies last, thanks to the support of the Friends of the Orange County Library. Visit ocls.org/summer to learn more.
Beyond the reading challenge, our Summer at Your Library programs provide hands-on opportunities for all to learn and have fun at your Windermere Branch.
Want to explore your artistic side? Transform a book page into a stunning visual piece with Book Page Watercolor Art on Thursday, July 23, at 5 p.m., turn a blank canvas into a fun anime-style creation with Anime Art Class: With Jamile Johnson on Tuesday, July 14, at 1 p.m., or explore new photo angles with Teen Art Adventures: Solar-Powered Photography on Friday, July 10, at 2 p.m.
If crafting is not for you, groove on over Friday, July 10, at 10:30 a.m. for Name That Tune Bingo for Seniors and practice a Peruvian folkloric dance with Raymi Dance School: Zampoña Whisper of the Winds on Monday, July 6, at 10:30 a.m.
It all leads up to our End of Summer Celebration where kids and youth can celebrate the season, win prizes for their effort, enjoy a frozen treat and more on Saturday, July 25 at 10:30 a.m.
There’s so much to do at your library all summer long. Visit ocls.org/classes-events to find an array of unique experiences for you and your family.
