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OCLS Firmly Opposes Hatred, Racism and Intolerance

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The past week has been a trying time for our country, and for our community. We know that many of our families, friends, colleagues and leaders are struggling with feelings of fear, sadness and frustration in the week since Mr. George Floyd was killed by a Minneapolis police officer.

As an organization, Orange County Library System firmly opposes hatred, racism and intolerance. We do not condone violence of any kind, and we condemn the actions that led to Mr. Floyd’s death. As a library system, we feel it’s our role to use our resources to bring our community together. We have long been committed to creating an inclusive environment for our community, and that commitment has only been strengthened by this tragedy.

We urge our community to peacefully stand united against racism. And below, we highlight materials from our collection that can help promote better understanding and compassion for all.

Our Read to Understand Catalog List features titles from classic and contemporary Black authors on the subjects of race, identity, and social justice, as well as titles that are meant to help build your empathy muscle.

The Virtual Book Display: A Community in Pain tackles the subjects of racial inequality and social justice head-on with selections from contemporary authors who offer personal insights and ways to combat systemic racism.

The art of film is a powerful tool in education and building understanding as well. The Social and Systemic Injustice collection on Kanopy highlights countless stories that document the long history of systemic racism in America.

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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 >