The Orange County Library System is highlighting volunteers this month. Its director thanked everyone who took part in Summer at Your Library, calling it one of the best summers yet, with themed programming, summer presenters and summer reading. Adults and teens who give back to the library are featured on pages 18 through 21 of the August 2026 issue of Books & Beyond and on the OCLS Blog.
Volunteer opportunities are available at locations across the county. Middle and high school students can earn community service hours through monthly online advisory board meetings and hands-on activities at branches, including contributing to teen zines. Adults can join the Friends of the Orange County Library System, described as a non-profit, independent volunteer and advocacy organization that helps improve the quality and scope of services. Adult volunteers give building tours and help in the bookstore at Orlando Public Library, share information about library programs at community events, and prep crafts and shelve books at branches. Details are available at friends.ocls.org or at a local branch.
Upcoming events include GreenFest on August 21 at South Creek Branch, with sustainability information, gardening workshops and environmentally conscious organizations; Friday and Saturday Jazz at the Fairview Shores, Chickasaw and Southwest branches; and a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the West Oaks Branch and Genealogy Center from August 25 to 29. The director noted the system offers meeting spaces, children's storytimes, homework help, computers and internet access, books, e-books, audiobooks, cultural programming and services supporting small businesses, job seekers and families, along with safe after-school spaces, places for seniors to gather, rooms for homeowner's associations and civic groups, and training for people seeking new skills. Residents are encouraged to visit one of 15 locations.
Press release issued by Orange County Library System:
https://ocls.org/ocls-blog/from-the-director-august-2026/
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