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our history speaks volumes

  • Our History Speaks Volumes: Light Waves Sculpture

    Our History Speaks Volumes: Light Waves Sculpture

    Created by artist Christopher Janney, Light Waves is a unique glass sculpture comprised of four colored bands that bathe the western facade of Orlando Public Library in different spectrums of color depending on the position of the sun. The sculpture also includes a series of touch plates which, when pressed in a specific order, will…

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  • Our History Speaks Volumes: Orlando Public Library’s Expansion

    Our History Speaks Volumes: Orlando Public Library’s Expansion

    April 6, 2020 marks the 35th anniversary of Orlando Public Library’s 230,000 square foot expansion. In 1966, when the building was first constructed, it occupied a comparatively meager 60,000 square feet. However, it was always the intention to further expand upon the library, and that consideration went into the original structure’s design by architect John M.…

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  • Our History Speaks Volumes: Books-By-Mail (Pictured: A brochure circa 1970s and a publicity photo from 1976.)

    Our History Speaks Volumes: Books-By-Mail

    (Pictured: A brochure circa 1970s and a publicity photo from 1976.) Our Books-By-Mail service began in December 1973. In its earliest iteration, customers could mail a card or letter to the library requesting up to three titles from the collection. The books were delivered by the U.S. Postal Service in bags that could also be…

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  • Our History Speaks Volumes: Remembering Eddie T. Jackson

    Our History Speaks Volumes: Remembering Eddie T. Jackson

    In June 1924, our Booker T. Washington Branch opened at 107 South Terry St. The branch was the second public library location to open in the city of Orlando following the Albertson Public Library, which began service the previous year. Selected to serve as Head Librarian of the Booker T. Washington Branch was Eddie T. Jackson. Upon…

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General Election Early Voting at Select Library Locations

Ten OCLS Branch locations will host early voting for the 2024 Early Voting General Election from Monday, October 21 to Sunday, November 3, 2024 (8 a.m. – 8 p.m.): Alafaya, Chickasaw, Fairview Shores, Hiawassee, South Creek, Southeast, Southwest , Washington Park, West Oaks, and Winter Garden. Learn more about early voting at select library locations >

North Orange Branch Closure

North Orange Branch is closed for repair, with an undetermined reopening date. Learn more about the branch closure >