You Bee-long at Your Library
Orange County Library System is dedicated to enriching lives through experiences and opportunities to learn, grow and connect. Our area is growing fast and to plan effectively for the future, we need your input on how you use your library and what you’d like to see moving forward. Visit surveyhero.com/c/OCLS to take the survey; I hope you’ll take a few minutes to share your thoughts.
National Library Week is April 19–25, and we have plenty to celebrate! Stop by any Orange County Library System location during the week to pick up a limited-edition “You Bee-long at the Library” sticker. If you – or someone you know – doesn’t have a library card, it’s the perfect time to sign up. Register for a new card in person at any of our 15 locations and receive a special prize pack that includes WonderWorks tickets and a coupon for a free treat from Jeremiah’s Italian Ice, while supplies last. We’re also hosting special programs throughout the week celebrating libraries and the communities they serve – be sure to check out ocls.org/nlw for all the details.
The week concludes with one of my favorite annual events: the Southwest Author Series, presented in partnership with the Rotary Club of Dr. Phillips. This year we welcome Tess Gerritsen, the brilliant mind behind 32 bestselling thrillers and mysteries, including The Summer Guests and the popular series featuring the detective and medical examiner duo Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles, inspiration for a hit TV series. Ms. Gerritsen was a physician before becoming a writer, experience that lends remarkable authenticity to her thrillers.
This after-hours event is April 24 at Southwest Branch. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. with light refreshments, and the program begins at 7 p.m., followed by a book sale and signing. This event is free but it requires registration and seats fill fast; register now at ocls.org/southwestauthorseries.
April is also packed with programs designed to help you grow creatively and professionally. Through our Job Seekers series, you can attend classes to help you build a stronger resume, sharpen your interview skills and connect with career opportunities. If you’re looking for ways to give back to your community while gaining valuable experience, join us for the Volunteer Resource Fair at West Oaks Branch at 11 a.m. on Saturday, April 11. Adults and teens ages 16 and older can meet representatives from local organizations and discover their perfect volunteer opportunity.
The entries are rolling in but there’s still time to submit your short-form film for consideration in the Melrose Film Festival. The deadline for entry is May 15; submit your film at filmfreeway.com/melrosefilmfestival. Aspiring authors can take advantage of our five-session Traditional Publishing Boot Camp series this month. From finding the right literary agent to prepping your manuscript for submission, this series will guide you through the traditional publishing process.
Whether you’re discovering a new author, developing professional skills, exploring creative passions or connecting with your community, your library is here to support you every step of the way. We look forward to welcoming you this April because at the library, you truly bee-long.
