Free events at the Orlando library branches

The Orange County Library’s calendar is always packed with FREE events. The library really is a cool place to be! 

The library branches have free classes for all ages, free story times for children, free concerts, free readings by authors and much, much more.

The Orange County Library. Photo courtesy of Amanda Murphy.

Some of the events listed below require registration in advance with an OCLS card and space may be limited. Events may require a small fee if you do not have an OCLS card. If you have any questions, contact the library at 407-835-7323 or visit the Orange County Library site.

Here are some upcoming free events at the library.

Events for Kids and Families

Cuisine Corner Junior: Valentine Rice Krispies Treats

Orlando Public Library, Papa Bear – First Floor
Date: Thursday, February 13
Time: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

• Learn how to turn a classic delight into your next Valentine’s Day treat! Recommended for ages 6–12. Registration required. Food will be served; please see staff about specific needs concerning food allergies.

Family Fiber Arts: Heart Corner Bookmarks

Southwest Branch, Technology Classroom
Date: Saturday, February 15
Time: 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.

• Make a cute corner bookmark to keep or share with a few simple stitches. Best for ages 10+.
• This program is intended for families—whatever family means to you. Materials will be provided. Be ready to thread a needle and do some hand sewing! Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Some familiarity with hand sewing and tying knots is recommended.
• Out of District Fee: $10.

Make Your Own Basquiat-Inspired Self Portrait

Eatonville Branch
Date: Thursday, February 20
Time: 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

• Unleash your creativity and make your own Basquiat-inspired self-portrait! Recommended for ages 8 to 13.

Black History Month Heroes

Windermere Branch
Date: Wednesday, February 26
Time: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

• Learn about the lives of scientist Katherine Johnson, painter Alma Thomas, and fashion designer Patrick Kelly through crafts and activities. Make a straw rocket to honor Katherine Johnson, paint an abstract work of art in the style of Alma Thomas, and design button-adorned fashion in the mode of Patrick Kelly.
• Recommended for ages 6 to 12.

General Events

Please check the OCLS site for recommended ages and prerequisites.

Make Your Own Necklace: Seed Bead Jewelry

Orlando Public Library, Magnolia Room – Third Floor
Date: Wednesday, February 12
Time: 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

• Just in time for Galentine’s or Valentine’s Day! Create a heart-shaped charm using seed beads and safety pins. Keep it as a charm or turn it into a necklace. All materials provided. Space is limited. Registration required. Ages 18 and up.

AARP Income Tax Assistance 2025 – By Appointment

South Creek Branch
Date: Thursday, February 13, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• AARP Volunteers will provide income tax assistance. All Orange County Library sites will be using the AARP online appointment system. To make an appointment, visit: aarp.org/taxaide.

Hand Sewing Sashiko Patterns – Tortoiseshell

Southwest Branch
Date: Tuesday, February 18, 2025
Time: 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.

• Learn sashiko hand-sewing techniques that form geometric patterns from simple running stitches. Create beautiful designs layer-by-layer while learning to mark and sew these geometric designs.

See all the free events at the Orange County Library System here.

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