Director’s Note

The 2025 Old Farmer’s Almanac promises a “calmer, gentler” winter for us, but given its track record recently, my personal strategy is to buy more sweaters and hope for the best! Fortunately, when it comes to planning your winter activities, you won’t have to rely on such shaky predictions. You can always count on Omaha Public Library to brighten your days and warm your spirits as we head into a lively holiday season!

We’re excited to share a variety of special programs designed to inspire and engage you, no matter the weather. If you’re feeling crafty, stop by the Genealogy and Local History Room for a holiday workshop where you can create your own vintage postcards—perfect for adding a personal touch to your holiday greetings. For families, we have something truly special—an enchanting Meet a Musician Storytime with Trevor Petersen from the Omaha Symphony, where music and storytelling come to life. Teens can find inspiration at an upcoming writing workshop on poetry, led by a member of the Nebraska Writer’s Collective.

Looking to step outside of the library for a bit? Join us out in the community for an “Out and About Reading Party,” or attend the 24th Annual Teen Poetry Bash at the Abrahams Branch. The Holiday Lights Festival at the Downtown Branch promises to be a highlight, featuring Esteban, The Green Crayon, from “The Day The Crayons Quit.”

For the fans of classic literature, OPL is hosting a Jane Austen Tea Party in celebration of the author’s 249th birthday. Jennifer Swenson will present “Communication and Personality in Pride and Prejudice,” a fascinating talk brought to you in partnership with the Nebraska Chapter of the Jane Austen Society and the Friends of OPL. Be sure to stop by as The Bookworm will also be on hand with books and holiday gifts available for purchase!

Kick off the new year by attending the Reading Challenge Kick-Off Party. If you would like to participate in a book swap, bring a book you’d like to share and then pick out a new book!

On those cold, snowy nights when it’s just too chilly to venture out, OPL is here for you online. You can explore our digital collections and borrow audiobooks or eBooks through our Libby app, perfect for cozying up with a great read or listening to an engrossing story. Our website is always open, 24/7, providing access to endless resources that will keep you entertained and engaged all winter long.

On behalf of everyone at OPL, we wish you a safe, warm, and joyful holiday season. Thank you for being part of our library community, and we look forward to seeing you at the library or online!