| Dear Friends, Thank you. Over the past week, so many of you took the time to share your stories, sign the petition, send an email, and talk with friends and neighbors about what the Orange County Public Library means to you. We heard from parents, students, educators, retirees, job seekers, lifelong library supporters, and many people who simply wanted to make sure their voices were heard. We were overwhelmed by the response. As the County’s budget process comes to a close, we wanted to share our gratitude. The Board ultimately chose not to approve the proposed additional $200,000 reduction to OCPL operations. While budget realities remain and the library continues to face challenges, this outcome helps protect services that our community relies on every day. It also means that Orange County Public Library branches will continue to be open seven days a week. What has stayed with us most throughout this process is the response itself. In less than a week, our community came together to share more than 500 testimonials, comments, or petition signatures, which we respectfully prepared for the Board of County Commissioners for consideration. Countless more emails were sent directly to the Commissioners. So many families described storytimes, summer reading, and the role that the library plays in their lives. Others shared how the library helped them find a job, learn a new skill, access technology, or simply feel connected to their community. Your stories mattered a lot. They’re also a testament to the value the library brings to Orange County and to the staff whose work makes it all possible. The outpouring of support reflects not only a love for the library, but an appreciation for the people who help make it such an important part of our community. We are grateful to the Orange County Board of Commissioners for taking the time to consider public input throughout this process, and we are grateful to every person who took the time to speak up for the library. The Friends of the Orange County Public Library exists to support and strengthen OCPL, and this effort reminded us just how much support exists across our community. We hope you’ll stay involved as we continue that work together. We’re lucky to call you Friends. If we could ask only one more thing of you, the next time you visit the library, take a moment to thank a librarian or staff member in person. So many of you shared stories about the difference the library has made in your lives. Those stories are possible because of the people who show up every day to serve our community with care, knowledge, creativity, and kindness. In uncertain times, the library is here for all of us. As Friends, we are here for them. Thank you for caring, for participating, and for supporting your library. With gratitude, The Friends of the Orange County Public Library |