Summer at Your Library is back at Orange County Library System! We’re ready for an exciting summer, jam-packed with fun, free, entertaining, air-conditioned programming!
But most importantly, we’re cheering you on as you take on our Summer Reading Challenge. This year we’re encouraging EVERYONE to read for 30 days this summer – and giving kids (ages 0-18) a free book.
Visit a library location near you to pick up a reading challenge booklet to track your progress. The booklets also feature fun activities and a way to earn extra entries for the End of Summer grand prize drawing.
While you’re at the library, kids can pick out a free book to take home, while supplies last. Our Youth Services library staff carefully selected titles for kids and their caregivers to choose from. These books help kick-off the Kids Summer Reading Challenge, promote building a reading habit and offer kids something of their own to enjoy. The Friends of the Orange County Library System have made this giveaway possible through a generous donation since 2023.
The Friends of the Library’s annual appeal focuses on raising money to get free books in the hands of young readers. The Friends of the Library also fund an annual giveaway for children enrolled in Orange County Head Start programs. The children receive one book each year that is hand-selected by OCLS Storyteller Crystal Sullivan to be high-interest themes tailored to their reading level.
Volunteers gather throughout the year to prepare and package the books for distribution and hear more about library happenings. If you’d like to join the Friends in their mission or donate money for future books, please visit https://friends.ocls.org/about/.
Of course, Summer at Your Library isn’t just about reading, it’s also about unforgettable experiences. We hope you’ll have the chance to visit a branch near you to catch a special program like the Spheres Bubble Show or have a chance to Meet a Gatorland Wrangler. Library staff have been working hard to host 3D design and printing camps, Cuisine Corner Jr tutorials, fiber arts classes and more. Adults can also enjoy special, themed programs including crafting, cooking, painting, gardening and more. Check out ocls.org/summer to find all the details.
Happy reading and see you soon!
