Director’s Note
Summer Reading Wrap-up
Fall Into Fun Libraries matter. That’s the message we hear every day in Omaha. Many of you take the time to tell us directly, which we always appreciate. We also get the message through the number of people we see visiting all 12 libraries, the thousands who attend Library programs each month, and the more than 17,700 who took part in the 2013 Summer Reading Program. You keep our staff busy and we like that! You also let us know that your libraries matter by speaking out when we were discussing how to manage a possible cut to the Library’s 2014 budget. Hundreds of people wrote letters, sent emails and made phone calls to the mayor and city council members expressing support for the Library. Your voice does make a difference, and I am glad to say that Mayor Stothert listened to your concerns and proposed a budget that will keep all 12 libraries open at their current schedules. However, 2014 will still be a challenge. The Library budget will be flat, equal to the funding available in 2013. Because costs will increase, the Library will still need to find small ways to reduce spending. Reductions will be made as carefully as possible to minimize disruption to service, but it is always difficult. Your charitable gifts also let us know that libraries matter. In addition to public funding, generous individuals like you give to the Omaha Public Library Foundation each year so that your Library can continue to do great work. Every gift makes a difference, no matter the amount. This year the Foundation received gifts ranging from kids donating their pocket change, to organizations like Cox Communications supporting the 2013 Summer Reading Program. While the size of the gift was different, the value of the gift was not; both show a commitment to keeping our libraries strong.
Each year, OPL strives to provide a quality summer reading experience for all ages. There are always new goals to reach and fun, educational and entertaining programs to help you along the way.
SRP Kickoff at Abrahams Branch
For more than 90 years, Summer Reading Program (SRP) has been available as a way to help beat the summer slump that can happen when children’s
Yoga Storytime at Sorensen Branch
minds aren’t being challenged or exercised during the off-school season.
Out and About Storytime with Saddlebrook Branch
SRP Kickoff at Florence Branch
This year, there were new sponsors, prizes and even a new way to register and log your books! Reading is the emphasis of the program, but there’s a reason why OPL offers more than 800 programs and events across 12 locations throughout the city. From storytimes to crafts for kids, gaming to lock-ins for teens, and Zumba to DIY terrariums for adults, there is something for everyone.
The impact of the interactions,
Thank you for your continued support!
connections and experiences is just as important as the SRP Kickoff at Willa Cather Branch
Gary Wasdin, Executive Director
Farm animals program at Saddlebrook Branch
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focus on learning.
Thank you to all who took the time to share your SRP stories, and thank you to Cox Communications, the Sokolof Foundation in honor of Rick Rosinski, and the many other sponsors who provided support to make the Summer Reading Program a success.