OCLS in the News
Here are stories about the Orange County Library System from the news media.
Orlando Sentinel
On Monday November 21, a standing-room crowd of more than 300 fans showed up at the Orlando Public Library's main branch downtown to cheer Casey Anthony prosecutor Jeff Ashton and listen to a brief talk, followed by a question-and-answer session. (November 22, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
Former prosecutor Jeff Ashton will discuss his new book "Imperfect Justice" at 6 p.m. Monday, November 21 at the main Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd. The event is free to all. (November 17, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
Following the release of his new book, Monday, Nov. 21, Ashton will do a public question-and-answer and book signing at the Orlando Public Library downtown. That event is set for 6 p.m. at the 101 East Central Blvd. location. (October 12, 2011)
Urban Libraries Council
The Urban Libraries Council recognized the Orange County Library System (OCLS) for providing patrons with a resource that would help them navigate the sometimes arduous process of e-government services - the Right Service at the Right Time (RS/RT). (October 14, 2011)
Library Journal
The Orange County Library System (OCLS) received on September 27 a $50,000 National Leadership Grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) to explore the feasibility for an openly accessible online database into which the families of deceased individuals can upload obituaries. (October 3, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Public Library will host Poe Museum Curator Chris Semtner to kick off The Big Read with a talk that aims to reintroduce readers to Edgar Allan Poe. (September 25, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System announced the release of Amazon Kindle-friendly downloadable eBooks that are now free to all regular cardholders. (September 22, 2011)
Fox 35 News
Faced with looming budget cuts, the Orange County Library System has recently won multiple awards for maintaining an innovative and tech savvy library as outlined in this Fox 35 News story. (September 12, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel highlighted theOrange County Library System's plans to meet skyrocketing demand for digital resources by increasing its budget for downloadable book purchases. (September 16, 2011)
OCLS offers patrons downloadable eBooks
Fox35
Fox35 filmed a news story showcasing the library's downloadble eBook resource, OverDrive. Books are readily available to be virtually checked out on such devices as iPads, Nooks, Sony eReaders, Android Tablets and other devices. (August 17, 2011)
The Daily Dog
Program attendees at the Orange County Library System's regularly scheduled Paws to Read events can practice their reading skills by reading aloud to Be An Angel Therapy Dogs Ministry certified therapy dogs. (August 16, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel's My Word op-ed in the Orlando Sentinel called for parents to promote summer reading to their children to help prevent a dropoff in reading skills. (May 30, 2011)
American Libraries Magazine
The Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations (ALTAFF), a division of the American Library Association (ALA), recognized the Friends of the Orange County Library System group with a Best Friends Award for outstanding publicity and marketing materials that promote the group and its programs and projects. (May 24, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
More libraries in Central Florida are jumping on the e-book bandwagon in a response to the popularity of the digital devices. While Orange County's system has had e-book programs in place for a good amount of time, others are just catching up. (May 20, 2011)
Walt Disney World Public Affairs
Disney Prize Patrol swept through the Orlando Public Library to award OCLS a $20,000 grant for its Summer Reading Program. The award came through Disney’s Helping Kids Shine grant program which assists organizations that build better futures for children through ongoing programming. (May 24, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
In recognizing National Library Week, OCLS Board of Trustees President Rich Maladecki'sOrlando Sentinel op-ed column highlighted the many useful resources the Orange County Library System provides to the community. (April 13, 2011)
@Your Library
OCLS' Technology and Education Center was commended by @ Your Library for winning the ALA/Information Today, Inc. Library of the Future Award from the American Library Association. The technology and computer classes at OCLS libraries were attended by nearly 50,000 people in 2010.
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel praised the Orange County Library System for being a trendsetter in QR Code marketing in Central Florida. OCLS started using QR Codes in 2010 to promote events and offer special discounts and exclusive content to library patrons. (April 1, 2011)
WOFL-TV Fox35
Fox35 News ran a story highlighting the Orange County Library System's anti-bullying series titled March Against Bullying. OCLS was applauded for taking action against what has been a troublesome trend amongst today's youth. (March 12, 2011)
American Library Association
OCLS was honored with the Library of the Future Award by the American Library Association for its broad range of computer technology classes that reached nearly 50,000 patrons in 2010. (March 22, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel blog Change the World highlighted the March Against Bullying event How to Keep Your Kids Off the Bully Radar featuring respected certified counselor Jim West. (March 11, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
OCLS Board of Trustees Vice President Ted Maines' Orlando Sentinel op-ed column shines a light on harmful bullying amongst today's youth and the library campaign to combat it. (March 13, 2011)
Orlando Family Magazine
OCLS offers insight into the bullying epidemic sweeping the nation and unveils a new series of programs aimed at helping parents, teachers and students curb this unfortunate problem. (March 1, 2011)
USA Today
OCLS CEO/Director Mary Anne Hodel's letter in response to the USA Today story Finding ways to make small bookstores relevant describes the challenges facing libraries in a technology-driven market. (February 16, 2011)
Central Florida News 13
"Soy Culto" es el nombre de la nueva iniciativa destinada a hacer de nuestra comunidad una mas culta, valga la redundancia. Aparte de las novelas, los ensayos y las enciclopedias disponibles hay mucho mas que aprovechar.
LaPrensa
"Soy Culto" es la nueva campana lanzada por el Sistema de Bibliotecas del Condado Orange (OCLS, por sus siglas en ingles) con el proposito de proveer libros, medios y servicios en espanol a la comunidad hispana de Orange.
El Sentinel
El Sistema de Bibliotecas del Condado de Orange (OCLS, siglas en ingles) formalizo esta semana el programa "Soy Culto," a traves del cual los hispanos podran disfrutar de mas libros en espanol, desde clasicos de la literatura hasta nuevos autores, una mayor oferta de clases de computacion y clases de ingles como segunda lengua.
eBooks are surging in popularity and they are free at OCLS
Fox 35 News
A FOX 35 News story focused on the rising popularity of eBooks as well as the ability to get them free at Orange County Libraries. The story included an interview with Edgewater Branch Manager Kelly Pepo who commented on the triple-digit percentage increase in the use of OCLS digital products. (January 27, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
This editorial published by the Orlando Sentinel states the case against cutting state funding to libraries and points out the importance of libraries in a thriving community. (January 19, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel featured OCLS as a multimedia library in an article spotlighting the increase in DVD checkouts and existence of free new release DVDs at your library. (January 24, 2011)
City's Best
City's Best says all you need is an OCLS library card and you can take advantage of free mp3 downloads, DVDs, home delivery and more! (December 30, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System's innovative Shake It app was named one of four winners selected by the American Library Association as an example of cutting-edge technology used to showcase services. (January 4, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
Through the new Hispanic outreach initiative Soy Culto, the library system will add hundreds of new spanish titles to its vast collection. (January 4, 2011)
Orlando Sentinel
OCLS Patron Jackie Maher complimented the library on its new Right Service program to help Central Floridians easily find aid from private and public services. (November 15, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel helped promote an exciting event celebrating the 50th anniversary of To Kill a Mockingbird with author and director Mary Murphy. (November 15, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System's new Right Service at the Right Time program received front page placement for providing a website to help people find government assistance during the tough economic downturn. (November 9, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
OCLS was credited as being one of the first libraries to offer text services for reference questions, due dates and other information. (October 16, 2010)
The Associated Press
OCLS was applauded for its advances in mobile technology for libraries and changing the way people view libraries via social networking. *This article was picked up by hundreds of other news publications including The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune and USA Today.(September 29, 2010)
Sun Sentinel
South Florida Sun Sentinel paper lists OCLS as an option to help save on entertainment and leisure spending. (September 10, 2010)
Urban Libraries Council
Mention of the Orange County Library System (FL) being named Florida Library of the Year for 2010 by the Florida Library Association for distinguished service to the Association. (September 10, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel posted a preview of the September Second Saturday program featuring local professors Maurice O'Sullivan and Wenxian Zhang discussing the publication of A Trip to Florida for Health and Sport, the lost 1855 novel discovered in the archives of Rollins College in Winter Park. (August 29, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Sentinel tech blog Tech for the rest of us announced the rollout of OCLS' first iPhone app, OCLS Shake It, an innovative new tool for recommending great reads and movies. (July 14, 2010)
East Orlando Sun
The library system's vast array of programs and resources were highlighted in an extensive article from the East Orlando Sun (June 25, 2010).
Fox 35 News Report About OCLS’ Freegal Music Service
Fox 35
Can't see the video? Download the latest version of Flash.
Orlando Sentinel
Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel's June 10 Letter to the Editor called for parents to encourage students to continue reading over the summer and thus avoid the dreaded summer slide
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel posted a photo of library scholarship winners Phillip Nguyen, Gerry Zheng and U.S. Presidential Scholar Brooke Griffin receiving checks from the Friends of the Orange County Library System
Orlando Business Journal
The Orlando Business Journal announced the unveiling of an innovative new tool available to library card holders which allows them access to download digital music for free. (May 5, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
In a letter to the editor, Mary Anne Hodel praised a recent Orlando Sentinel editorial that had questioned cutting state aided library funding. (March 17, 2010)
lyrasis
The library will receive $500,000 in federal funds for Hispanic materials, programs and services. (March 16, 2010)
Orlando Sentinel
The ladies of the Orlando Sentinel's Frugal Force blog helped promote the annual 50% off Winter Book Sale held by the Friends of the Orange County Library System. (January 18, 2009)
GrowingBolder.com
Watch video of Dara Torres' visit to the Orlando Public Library where she entertained a crowd of library patrons with stories of her Olympic experience and astonishing athletic accomplishments . (December 18, 2009)
Library Journal
Library Journal announced the Orange County Library System's participation in Empowered by Open Source, a grant project to convince libraries to switch to an open source integrated library system (ILS). (October 12, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel Frugal Force Blog
The Orlando Sentinel's Frugal Force blog highlighted an event featuring a local raw-vegan chef presenting cooking tips and information at the Alafaya Branch. (October 7, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel Blog
The Frugal Force Blog promoted an upcoming event at the Orlando Public Library with the Sentinel's own Coupon Queen. (September 11, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Public Library is mentioned as the venue for hosting an immigration workshop and Q&A. (September 10, 2009)
Orlando Weekly
The Orlando Weekly recommended the library as a cost saver because of the free programs, CDs and DVDs, home delivery of materials and more offered to library cardholders. (September 3, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel Frugal Force Blog
The Orlando Sentinel's Frugal Force Blog lists the availability of playaways as yet another reason to love the library. The collection includes bestsellers, young adult titles, children's and more. (September 3, 2009)
Orlando Business Journal
The Orlando Business Journal recently tagged OCLS as a prime candidate for federal stimulus money aimed at expanding broadband access for citizens. (July 24, 2009)
Institute of Museum and Library Services Website
The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) posted an online story highlighting the many computer classes offered by OCLS and how that helps the community of business people and job seekers. (July 2009)
Mom's Homeroom
OCLS' Southwest Branch was featured in a national webisode for Homeroom Moms on msn.com. Librarian Sandy Mayer gave an overview of how to properly access and utilize your library. (June 24, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
The story covered the stimulus-funded jobs with the Orange County Library System being offered to teens. (June 30, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
The story announced plans for the Hiawassee Branch of the Orange County Library System to relocate to the Highland Lakes Center. (June 30, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel Tech Blog
Once again, OCLS was commended in the Orlando Sentinel Tech Blogfor its recent innovations including cell phone tours, mobile applications and more. (April 16, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
A story in the Orlando Sentinelhighlights the free resources the library offers to help offset financial burdens. (April 17, 2009)
Library Technology Guides
The online Library Technology Guides site posted a story highlighting OCLS' new iPhone interface which allows patrons to easily scan the library catalog and webpage. (March 18, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel blog
The Orlando Sentinel tech blog mentioned the new moblie OCLS interface for the iPhone and its ease of use.
(March 12, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel published a story both online and on the front page of the Health and Fitness section highlighting OCLS' Get Fine in '09 campaign. The campaign, made possible by a grant from Met Life, will feature health-related programs throughout the year at Orange County Library locations. (January 27, 2009)
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel published a story announcing OCLS' new immigration workshops "Citizenship Inspired," made possible by a grant from the Institute for Museum and Library Services. (January 16, 2009)
Downtown Community Blog
The Orlando Sentinel Downtown Community Blog posted a story highlighting a visit from the Ringling Bros. clowns at the Orlando Public Library. (December 16, 2008)
Downtown Community Blog
The Orlando Sentinel Downtown Community Blog mentions the December Second Saturday event featuring a live concert with The Forefathers. They also encouraged readers to join the program's sponsor group, The Friends of the Orange County Library System. (December 12, 2008)
Downtown Community Blog
The Orlando Sentinel's Downtown Community Blog promotes upcoming musical concerts at the Orlando Public Library featuring Orlando Opera Company musicians. (December 11, 2008)
Rollins Crummer Community News
The Rollins College Web site posted a story announcing a new partnership between the Crummer Graduate School of Business and the Orange County Library System. The partnership, titled Smart Investing @ Your Library, is aimed at bringing finance education to the Hispanic community. (November 25, 2008)
Orlando Sentinel Downtown Community Blog
Joyce Wiatroski highlighted an upcoming OCLS program featuring Karen De Vos as famed author Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings in her Orlando Sentinel Downtown Community Blog. (November 20, 2008)
Downtown Community Blog
Joyce Wiatroski highlighted OCLS in her Orlando Sentinel Downtown Community Blog for hosting an array of music, dance and arts programs. (November 12, 2008)
Orlando Sentinel Community Blog
Joyce Wiatroski praised the Orlando Public Library as a hotspot for early voting, highlighting the free events offered every day including the recent OCLS Theatre Presents: A Dramatic Arts Showcase. (October 25, 2008) Orlando Sentinel Community Blog
Word Count - Lit News and Book Reviews
Tod Caviness posted an entry on the Orlando Sentinel hosted blog Word Count announcing his plans to attend the OCLS fall book sale and praising its amazing deals.
Hal Boedeker Blog
Orlando Sentinel TV Critic and blogger Hal Boedeker recently (September 13, 2008) highlighted the upcoming event at the Orlando Public Library featuring Seymour Hersh on his blog.
Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Sentinel Television Critic Hal Boedeker recently interviewed Seymour Hersh (September 14, 2008) about his upcoming talk at the Orlando Public Library and his lauded career as a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist.
Orlando Sentinel
The Tech section of the Orlando Sentinel published a story (August 31, 2008) announcing the availability of the MP3/audiobook service OverDrive through OCLS.
Attention Must Be Paid
Attention Must Be Paid, a blog by Elizabeth Maupin, posted an entry highlighting the upcoming casting audition workshop featuring industry experts at the Orlando Public Library.(August 25, 2008).
Moms at Work
Moms at Work, a blog by Kim Hays, posted an entry highlighting the many free resources the library has to offer to help offset rising prices and a slowing economy (July 14, 2008).
Downtown Community Blog
A blog entry in the Downtown Community Blog (July 7, 2008) by Joyce Wiatroski highlights the upcoming Friends Family Frolic Tiki Time celebration.
Frugal Force - Protecting Your Pocket Book
The Coupon Queen recently blogged about the many resources available at the library in the Frugal Force blog (June 30, 2008).
Etan on tech
Read an excellent review of OCLS' technology resources written by tech blogger Etan Horowitz (June 28, 2008).
Modern library: More than just books
Orlando Sentinel
A column published on the front of the business section (June 28, 2008) called OCLS “one of the innovative libraries in the country.” The write-up outlined the rich array of technology resources offered at the library including computer classes, gaming, DVDs, audio books, playaways and more.
Orlando library lets teens' voices be heard
Orlando Sentinel
OCLS is tapping into teens with its teen advisory group called Teen Voices. The five-year-old program was the topic of a feature story in the Orlando Sentinel (June 22, 2008). The article credited the library for offering positive programming for area teenagers.
Summer Reading Rocks
Orlando Sentinel
An in-depth article (June 19, 2008) on positive ways to keep kids busy during the summer school vacation featured a nice section on the Orange County Library System’s Summer Reading Program. The news story cited the theme for the program (Whole Wide World) and how the library provides a passport to fun and learning at all 15 locations this summer.
Library part of downtown appeal
Orlando Sentinel
An article on the increasing trend toward downtown living (June 15, 2008) cited the library as a key attraction. In addition to its collection of materials available for check out, the library offers art shows, musical performances, informational programs, computer classes and more.
License to Learn contest winners announced
Orlando Sentinel
Teachers and schools that encouraged library usage to complement classroom learning were applauded in an Orlando Sentinel article (June 1, 2008). In the 2008 contest, 27 Orange County fourth grade classes reached the goal of 100 percent of students with library cards.
Here for Hispanics
Central Florida News 13 en Espanol
Central Florida News 13 en Espanol aired a story (May 27, 2008) on the wide array of programs, classes and materials offered for the Hispanic community. The story highlighted language-learning resources and included interviews with three OCLS staff members.
Cinco de Mayo celebrated at the library
Orlando Sentinel
The Cinco de Mayo celebration at the library was included in coverage of the holiday in the Orlando Sentinel. A large photo and cutline from festivities held in Library Central published in the Orlando Sentinel on May 6, 2008. Cinco de Mayo celebrates the historic victory of the 1862 battle between Mexico and France. The holiday is a symbol of Mexican pride and unity.
Read with the Rays at the Library
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel (April 23, 2008) provided an advance write-up on the Reading with the Rays program. The story promoted the importance of reading as well as the opportunity for local kids to meet the major league ball players up close and personal.
MLB.com
The Reading with the Rays program featuring pitcher J.P. Howell and Shawn Riggans was covered by MLB.com (April 23, 2008). The story included quotes from the players and from Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel.
WrestleMania Reading Challenge
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel (March 30, 2008) provided championship coverage of the WrestleMania Reading Challenge. The story included three large photos from the event held at the Orlando Public Library. In conjunction with WrestleMania XXIV, OCLS partnered with Worldwide Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) to promote reading success for students nationwide.
Wrestling with reading
WFTV/Channel 9
WFTV ran a story on the WrestleMania Reading Challenge on March 29, 2008. The story covered the national championship match in the reading challenge hosted at the Orlando Public Library. In the challenge, 10 middle and high school students from across the country competed for top honors.
Learn a language at the library
Orlando Sentinel
A letter to the editor from Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel published in the Orlando Sentinel (March 18, 2008) touting the wide array of language-learning resources offered free at Orange County libraries. Read the letter.
Library celebrates Read Across America Day
Orlando Sentinel
An Orlando Sentinel article (February 28, 2008) previewed a library event to promote the fun of reading with Dr. Seuss on Read Across America Day. The Edgewater branch manager was quoted in the article which highlighted activities planned for the location based on popular Seuss books Fox in Socks and The Cat in the Hat.
Recording history through StoryCorps
WFTV/Channel 9
WFTV covered StoryCorps’ stop in Orlando and promoted its presence at the Orlando Public Library in a news story (January 16, 2008). The largest oral history project of its kind, StoryCorps will remain on site to record the significant stories of everyday citizens at the Main Library through February 2, 2008.
StoryCorps sessions filling quickly
Orlando Sentinel
A follow-up article in the Orlando Sentinel (January 13, 2008) on the StoryCorps project referenced how the community has embraced the project. The story included a photo of the StoryCorps airstream trailer in front of the Orlando Public Library. Recording sessions to participate in the oral history project filled quickly – the Sentinel reported – with the first two weeks already completely full.
OCLS welcomes StoryCorps
Orlando Sentinel
Two Orlando Sentinel stories (January 6, 2008) focused on the StoryCorps project hosted by the library in Central Florida. The first article on the front of the Good Living section provided an overview of StoryCorps, the largest oral history project of its kind. The second story (front of Sunday Orange section) highlighted the talk that David Isay, founder of StoryCorps, would be giving at the Library.
OCLS has its game on
Daily Commercial
The Orange County Library System’s gaming initiative was cited as a model for other libraries trying to implement new teen services. The library system was mentioned as a pioneer for gaming programs in an article in the Daily Commercial (December 3, 2007). The article also included quotes from OCLS. The Bushnell Public Library in the newspaper’s coverage area is in the process of trying gaming there.
Library Director credited for innovations
Central Florida Lifestyle
Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel was dubbed, “Someone you should know” in an article headlined Re-envisioning the Library Life in the October 2007 issue of Central Florida Lifestyle magazine. Hodel was applauded for technological innovations as well as exponential increases in library circulation, door count, programs, classes and more.
Library recognized for diversity
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System was one of five Central Florida organizations honored for promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Winners were noted in an article in the Business section of the Orlando Sentinel (September 19, 2007). Recipients of the annual awards were announced at ceremonies held at Disney’s Contemporary Resort on September 18.
Library touts Hispanic resources
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System’s first Hispanic ESOL Resource Fair was highlighted in the Central Florida briefs in the Orlando Sentinel (September 15, 2007). The write-up emphasized the rich array of resources available at the library for learning English.
Fair celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
WFTV-Channel 9 News
WFTV-Channel 9 covered the Hispanic ESOL Resource Fair and ran footage from the event on several of its newscasts (September 15 and 16, 2007). The ESOL Fair, the coverage mentioned, was one of multiple events that the library system hosts in conjunction with Hispanic Heritage Month.
Exhibit opening featured in Visual Arts column
Orlando Sentinel
The library system’s Art After Hours featuring the work of several local Hispanic artists in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month was highlighted in the Visual Arts column (September 14, 2007) in the Orlando Sentinel. The column invited art lovers to check out the exhibit and opening festivities.
Kerouac's fame showcased at the library
Orlando Sentinel
An Orlando Sentinel article (September 5, 2007) provided a lengthy profile on the Kerouac Project. In celebration of the 50th anniversary of the publication of Jack Kerouac’s On the Road, OCLS is a key participant in the project – offering book discussions and presentations at multiple library locations.
Library exhibit highlighted
Orlando Sentinel
An article on the front of the local section of the Orlando Sentinel (September 5, 2007) detailed the opening of the Verizon Wireless Clothesline Project, a traveling exhibit that draws attention to the enormity of domestic violence. The article featured a photo of the exhibit which remains on display at the library through September 27.
Library campaign boosts circulation
Orlando Sentinel
An article in the Orlando Sentinel (August 28, 2007) credits the Orange County Library System’s billboard campaign with increasing circulation. The high visibility public awareness campaign features elected officials, celebrities and sports stars in support of libraries and learning.
Back to school with the library
Orlando Sentinel
An op-ed column by Library Director Mary Anne Hodel published (August 24, 2007) in the Orlando Sentinel. The column focused on the rich array of resources available at the library to students, parents and teachers for back-to-school as they embark on another academic year. Read the Column.
Friends of the Library Bookstore called "magical"
Orlando Sentinel
An Orlando Sentinel (August 5, 2007) article called the Friends of the Library Bookstore a magical place for book lovers to find bargains. The bookstore was included in a special series called "Places We Love: A Journalist's View." The write-up included a large photo as well as an inset box with contact information.
Library program provides information on alternative therapy for the disabled
Orlando Sentinel
Coverage of library system programs, Freedom Ride, a therapeutic horseback riding program for disabled children and adults, was the focus of a feature story that was published in the Orlando Sentinel (July 26, 2007) on the front of the Orange section. The Orlando Sentinel coverage included three photos from the Freedom Ride program presented at the Eatonville Branch of the Orange County Library System.
Library events top the list of Harry Hoopla
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Library System received top billing in the Orlando Sentinel's (July 20, 2007) round-up of Harry Potter events for the highly anticipated release of the final installment in the series.
Orange County Libraries highlighted in article on Harry Potter Hype
Seminole Chronicle
The Orange County Library System was included in a Seminole Chronicle article (July 19, 2007) about the hype surrounding the release of the final Harry Potter book. The article included quotes from the library system's spokeswoman and mention of the various Harry Potter-related events being presented by OCLS.
OCLS highlighted in article about release of final Harry Potter book
Orlando Sentinel
The Orange County Libary System's plans regarding the final installment in the Harry Potter series were included in an Orlando Sentinel article (July 12, 2007) about the highly anticipated release. The front-page article mentioned the number of copies ordered and the number of copies that already had reserves on them.
Library Art Exhibit Featured
Orlando Sentinel
The opening of the "Mysticim and Endless Possibilities" exhibit by artist Stefan Alexandres was featured in the visual arts column in the Orlando Sentinel (July 13, 2007). An image from the exhibit also published with the write-up.
Orange County Libraries included in article on DVD availability
Orlando Sentinel
Orange County Library System Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel was interviewed as part of an article (May 17, 2007) on DVDs and borrowing policies for minors.
Library Unveils New Awareness Campaign
Central Florida News 13
Evening news coverage (April 18, 2007) included coverage of the kick-off event for the Take Know for an Answer public awareness effort launched to coincide with National Library Week. B-roll of the billboards and the event kick-off was included in the news story.
Check Out Your Local Library
Channel 6
Candice Coleman reports (April 18, 2007) some surprising finds at the library as part of her coverage of the kick-off event for the Take Know for an Answer public awareness campaign. The news story included clips from the Take Know for an Answer public service ads, B-roll from the kick-off ceremonies and an abbreviated tour of the Orlando Public Library.
Billboards Tempt Us to Read
Orlando Sentinel
Scott Maxwell devoted his April 17, 2007 “Taking Names” column to coverage of the Take Know for an Answer public awareness campaign launched to jumpstart interest in Orange County Libraries and all they offer. The column featured interviews with Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel and Orange County Mayor Richard Crotty. Large photos of the Take Know for an Answer billboards accompanied the column.
Celebrate Library Week - April 15 - 21, 2007
Orange County's Website
Orange County Mayor Richard T. Crotty proclaims the week of April 15 through April 21, 2007 as National Library Week in Orange County, Florida, and encourages all residents to discover, support and take advantage of all the Orange County Library System has to offer. Read complete story by clicking on the link above!
Summer Camp Supreme
Orlando Arts
The Orange County Library System’s Summer Reading Program was cited in an article titled “Creating a Memorable Summer” in the March/April 2007 of Orlando Arts. The feature focused on finding something fun for kids to do for the upcoming summer and listed the enjoyable, enriching reading activities at OCLS as a great choice. The write-up appeared on page 30. A file photo of OCLS summer reading fun at the Orlando Public Library ran on page 32 as part of the article.
Orlando Library Café Serves as Model
Orlando Sentinel
An article in the Orlando Sentinel (March 13, 2007) cites Z-Café at the Orlando Public Library as the model for another such Z-Café coming soon to the Leesburg Library in Lake County. Like the Z-Café in Orlando, the Leesburg location will offer a special library blend of coffee to customers.
Know Your Business
First Monday
The Orange County Library System’s new Know Your Business initiative topped the monthly “News, Notes and Commentary” page in First Monday magazine (February 2007). The article applauded OCLS for its collection of tools and training – from computer classes and reference materials to research assistance – that offer insight into starting a business, managing a business and growing a business.
What They’re Reading
Orlando magazine
Library Director/CEO Mary Anne Hodel was the subject of the “What They’re Reading” feature in Orlando magazine (February 2007). The column explores the favorite book titles of local leaders.
High Tech Renovation
Orlando Sentinel
Recent renovations of the 2nd floor at the Orlando Public Library were celebrated in a Sunday photo feature in the Orlando Sentinel (March 11, 2007). The project – which includes open computer seating, stylish terrazzo flooring and new classrooms – was the recipient of a Golden Brick Award from the Downtown Orlando Partnership.
Coming Soon: New Library for East Orlando
East Orlando Sun
Plans for the 15th branch of the Orange County Library System were the topic of a front-page article in the East Orlando Sun (November 8, 2006). The Orange County Library System closed on the purchase of a building at 870 North Chickasaw Trail in early October. OCLS purchased the 16,900 square-foot building from State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance. The library system will seek public input on ideas for best retrofitting space to library usage.
Library Plays It Safe
Channel 9
A Channel 9 (WFTV) investigation (airdate November 8, 2006) discovered the Orange County Library System is taking extra steps to make its downtown library extra safe.
Orlando Sentinel
“Entrepreneurs Go the Library” was the headline of an Orlando Sentinel article (November 2, 2006) touting the rich business resources available to Orange County library cardholders free of charge. Services available to the business community include technology training, business plans, databases and language learning resources.
First Monday Feature
First Monday
Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel was profiled in a feature in First Monday magazine (November 2006). The article applauded Hodel’s leadership and the innovations she has introduced into OCLS – making it a national model for library services.
Destination Gifts & Greetings
Orlando Arts
Destination Gifts & Greetings . . . that’s the message in an Orlando Arts magazine (November 2006) article encouraging readers to visit the gift shop located on the first floor of the Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Boulevard. Gifts & Greetings offers stationery, distinctive greeting cards, jewelry, toys, journals, desk accessories, bookends, games, plush animals and more.
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel published a letter to the editor (October 21, 2006) from OCLS Public Relations Administrator Tracy Zampaglione inviting readers to explore the genealogy collection at the Orlando Public Library. The letter also encouraged attendance at a library genealogy program called “City of Stones.” Read the full text of the letter here.
Steeped in History
Orlando Sentinel
An Orlando Sentinel article (October 14, 2006) on genealogical research cited the Orlando Public Library for its rich resources available to research family histories. The genealogy collection is located on the fourth floor of the Orlando Public Library at 101 E. Central Blvd. in the heart of downtown.
Viva! Art After Hours
Telemundo
Telemundo was on hand to cover Viva! Art After Hours – a lively evening featuring the work of six local artists of Hispanic heritage. The festive event also included Latino music, dancing and authentic cuisine.
Storytelling @ the Gardens
Orlando Sentinel
An OCLS storytelling presentation was the subject of a photo on the front of the local section of the Orlando Sentinel (August 22, 2006). The free program is offered monthly and includes readings from several books and sing-alongs. Best of all, the lovely natural setting provides a glorious backdrop to the leaning and fun.
Candidates Forum
Orlando Sentinel, FOX News, Central Florida News 13
OCLS invited the community to discover where County Commission candidates stand on key issues. The Forum (August 23, 2006) was moderated by FOX-35 news reporter Shannon Butler and media panelists from the Orlando Sentinel, WFTV and Central Florida News 13 posed questions. It was covered in the news by the Orlando Sentinel, FOX News and Central Florida News 13.
Orlando Sentinel
The Joy of Java
Specialty-market coffee was the subject of an Orlando Sentinel (June 17, 2006) article on micro-roasted coffee. Check out the latest and greatest taste in artisan coffee in the café on the first floor of the Orlando Public Library.
Artists, Authors & Appetizers
Orlando Sentinel
An Orlando Sentinel photo on the front of the Sunday Orange section (May 14, 2006) featured the work of Ben Garcia, one of several local artists participating in Artists, Authors & Appetizers. The after-hours event at the Orlando Public Library celebrated Central Florida writers and artists with a special evening of exhibits, wine and creative cuisine. All proceeds from the event benefited the library system’s learning and literacy efforts.
Take Your Child to Work Day
Orlando Sentinel
OCLS was the workplace of choice when the Orlando Sentinel photographed youngsters at work. A photo published in the local section (April 28, 2006) featured Jonathan Smith. The 8-year-old son of OCLS Ronda Smith spent the day working in the library system’s Collection Development Department. Take Your Child to Work Day is a national event held annually to educate children about the world of work and the various career options available to them.
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel published a letter to the editor (April 15, 2006) from OCLS Public Relations Administrator Tracy Zampaglione in response to an article about wireless (Wi-Fi) access coming to the heart of downtown. Wi-Fi has been available at the Orlando Public Library and all 14 branches since 2003.
:30 Seconds With . . .
Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Sentinel reporter Rebecca Swain featured Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel in her :30 Seconds With column (Friday, April 14, 2006). The regular column profiles a community leader making a positive difference in Central Florida.
Tap into Tech @ the Library
Orlando Business Journal
“All you need is a card.” That’s what an Orlando Business Journal (April 7 – 13, 2006) article tells readers when reporting on free computer classes offered throughout the Orange County Library System. Classes are available in everything from Excel, Photoshop, Word, Publisher, Podcasting, HTML to Access and more. The article was reprinted in Orlando BizWomen.com.
Orange County Website
Orlando Sentinel
Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel submitted a My Word column to the Orlando Sentinel in recognition of National Library Week (April 2 – 8, 2006). Read the full text of her submission here.
A Celebration of Reading
Orlando Sentinel
The Orlando Sentinel published (March 2, 2006) a Letter to the Editor from Library Director and CEO Mary Anne Hodel about the importance of early reading success. The letter published in conjunction with “Read Across America Day.”
Coffee and Café Click @ the Library
Orlando Business Journal
An Orlando Business Journal article (February 24 – March 2, 2006) invited the community to come for books, research, the latest DVDs, computer classes – and coffee and a café – yes, at the library! Check out Z-Café at the Orlando Public Library:
http://z-coffee.com/cafe.htm
Taking Names
Orlando Sentinel
Orlando Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell took note (February 2, 2006) of the Library’s holding of A Million Little Pieces by James Frey. Popularity of the controversial memoir soared following the author’s admission that portions of the book were embellished.
WebJunction
The Eola Echo
