Director’s Note

The days are getting longer and though spring has teased us with some warm days, we’re now well on our way to a bright, beautiful summer! One of the best ways to celebrate the sunshine is to get outside, and if gardening is your passion (or even just an occasional interest), you can indulge by checking out seeds from Omaha Public Library (OPL). Every branch hosts a Common Soil Seed Library for you to look through and check out the ones you like. You can also browse seeds from OPL’s online catalog and have them delivered to your local branch. The collection has a wide array of openpollinated and heirloom seeds that are ready and waiting for your garden.

While those long, lazy days and sunny vacation spots are a great way to unwind during the quieter days of summer, for public libraries, summer is the busiest time of year, and this year is no exception. OPL’s annual Summer Reading Program will kick off in June with the theme “Adventure Begins at Your Library!” There will be exciting programs happening at each location throughout the summer months. Reading is a very important activity for kids to enjoy and helps them maintain that skill while school is out. Our amazing library staff are always on hand to recommend titles you’ll love. You can reach out to them at our branches or, if it’s more convenient, you can request a custom reading list through our website.

We have lots of options available to you directly from our website—sign up for an eCard online and have instant access to ebooks and audiobooks using the Libby app. Browse magazines, download music, or find interesting offerings in our Resource Center. You can take a class with LinkedIn Learning, or watch movies and TV shows with Kanopy—all from the comfort of your home.

One of my favorite authors, Lloyd Alexander said, “Keep reading. It’s one of the most marvelous adventures that anyone can have.” And this summer OPL has something exciting for everyone! So stop by your local branch and join the adventure!