Window World of Central Florida, a locally owned provider of window and door replacement based in Orlando, has donated $50,000 to Orange County Library System in support of its annual Summer Reading Program. The donation will help the library provide learning opportunities to children of all ages and promote literacy to thousands of children living in Orange County.
The Summer Reading Program is the library’s largest annual initiative. Its highlights include camps where kids can learn about anything from sewing to video production, and participate in reading challenges, educational presentations and activities for families. The goal is to encourage kids to continue learning when schools are closed for summer break and cultivate a love for reading. Last year, more than 83,000 children, teens and adults participated in our Summer Reading Program, which was offered virtually due to COVID-19.
The money from Window World’s generous donation will be used to provide prizes for children who participate in Summer Reading Program challenges. Examples of prizes given in the past include backpacks loaded with school supplies, sports equipment, bicycles and art supplies.
“I love kids, I love Orlando, I love Orange County Library System,” said Brian Tillman, owner of Window World of Central Florida. “I participated in summer programs when I was a kid, and I spent more hours than I can count at the library. I love that Window World can help kids have a special summer and get them interested in worthwhile things.”
The donation will make it possible for the library to invest in prizes like ereaders and laptops – items that are critical for learning in the virtual environment.
“Given the year so many families have endured, we want to provide children and teens with incentives that promote educational development, creativity and a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Mary Anne Hodel, library director and CEO of Orange County Library System. “This is the largest donation for Summer Reading Program from a locally owned company we have ever received. We are so grateful to Window World for making it possible for us to offer a robust and rewarding Summer Reading Program.”
The 2021 Summer Reading Program takes place from May 30 to August 1. Its theme is Tails and Tales – exploration of amazing Florida wildlife and fantastical folktales. Events and programs focus on interactive learning through arts and crafts, science projects, cooking classes and more. Bilingual classes, reading challenges and technology camps will also be available. All Summer Reading Program classes, events, camps and programs are free for Orange County Library System cardholders.
