It all started with a stack of books. Back in 1920, retired New York Police Inspector Captain Charles L. Albertson donated his beloved collection of literature to the City of Orlando. What became known as the Albertson Public Library has since flourished into the landmark that is the Orlando Public Library. Since then, it has expanded to become the Orange County Library System (OCLS) - evolving into so much more than a place to kick back with a good book. Since the day our first location was dedicated all those years ago, your library still holds the very same stories that inspired a city in the making, plus a wealth of high-tech features designed to inspire the next generation.
We're right around the corner.
Find the following features, services and modern marvels, just minutes from your front door.
Bring your most out-of-the-box ideas to life in the Melrose Center, where technology, innovation and creativity combine for endless opportunities in the making. Brush up on your handiwork by taking a soldering or electronics class. Need a bigger challenge? Build your own robot. Print a 3D prototype. Learn to fly a plane without leaving the ground. The sky’s the limit.
Bringing your visions to life has never been easier. From visual arts to graphic design, you can take over a creative workspace and make a masterpiece. Learn to design a website. Mock up your very own logo. Stitch a quilt, patch by patch. You know you’ve always had it in you.
Whether you’re looking for a new gig or setting up shop, you can get down to business in the library. Put yourself out there with résumé writing classes. Consult with our career experts for quick tips on the job hunt. Meet with the team in high-tech workspaces. Become an expert at Microsoft Word. Your next big break is here for the taking.
Disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the community. Your library hosts a wealth of events and social groups designed to entice almost every interest. Honor your queen in a chess tournament. Crack a few jokes at an improv class. Learn how to make healthy meals at a Cuisine Corner cooking demo. Meet people who share your passions, and find common ground together. Get involved. Get happy.
It’s time to make a ruckus. Yes, even in the library. Record the next chart-topper in our state-of-the-art sound booths, audio production studios and editing bays. Because you deserve to be heard and to hear your favorites.
Are you ready for your close-up? Whether you’re a whiz behind the lens or a lover for the limelight, our photography and movie offerings will satisfy your appreciation of the silver screen. Channel your inner shutterbug in our top-of-the-line production studio. Learn to find the right lighting, set up a backdrop and discover the rule of thirds. Get the spotlight just right with video and photography lighting classes. Or check out a movie to devour at home.
Escape for an hour. For a day. For a change. There’s no better way than by reading a good story. Curl up with your favorite paperback, or download free eBooks and magazines to take with you on the go. Explore rows of bright ideas and adventures just waiting to be discovered, or browse your way through our collection and discover digital content on any mobile device.
Mold young minds with endless educational tools and resources made just for little ones. Stop in for some quality story time. Take home DVDs on everything from ABCs to 123s. Let their imagination run wild with a fairytale, or by playing in our discovery areas. From free Pre-K programs to elementary school study guides, your library has something for every age and stage.
You’ve got smarts. Put them to work. Challenge yourself to master a new skill or brush up on an old pastime. Tighten your grasp on the English language. Study up on string theory. Tackle that trigonometry homework head on. With open study areas, free internet access and classrooms, we guarantee the library will be your new favorite study zone.
You’ve always wanted to explore. Now’s your chance. We’ve got volumes by leaps and bounds. Page through the historical archives and indexes. Find what you’re searching for with the help of a professional researcher. Look a little closer using our microfilm viewers, microfiche printers and vertical files. Trace your family roots with our genealogy collection, rated one of the best in the Southeast. It’s those who look back that help propel us forward.
Show someone you care with a little something unexpected from the gift shop. Bring home a one-of-a-kind find from the Friends of the Library Bookstore. Discover a long lost story via the book resale program, or volunteer your time by helping to organize our inventory. Browse the shelves. Stay a while. Go ahead, it’s ok to linger.
Your library offers many services to help you during times of need. Get back on your feet and at your best through our financial services. Take classes to earn your GED. Learn to navigate tax season. Life may bring challenges but we have resources to help you succeed.
Discover programs that speak to you, no matter your native language. The library is a multicultural environment made for all walks of life, whether you’re looking to brush up on your English or reconnect with your culture. Learn how to use a computer — in Spanish. Bring the kids to bilingual story time sessions. Stay current on your country’s state of affairs. Even if you’re new to the area, or even the country, we can help you connect to your community.
Sign up for a new library card. Or, renew your card. Do it online now, or visit a location near you and ask for help. It costs nothing, yet gives you everything you need to Free Yourself.