If you’re picking up a book from the Orange County Library System tonight, you’re doing so at the 2021 Florida Library of the Year. 

Congratulations @oclslibrary for being named the 2021 Library of the Year by the Florida Library Association! This award recognizes OCLS and its staff for maintaining outstanding library services during the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/AynqSMQFBZ

— Downtown Orlando (@DWNTWN_ORLANDO) June 16, 2021

The library system was awarded the honor by the Florida Library Association for its commitment to continuing its services to patrons throughout the pandemic. 

Staff and volunteers turned in-person programming into online events and worked with health experts to reopen branches when it was safe and with COVID protocols in place.

In a statement, Library Director Mary Anne Hodel says the award is a wonderful recognition of everyone at the library’s hard work over the past year. 

Hodel says, “I am so proud of the way our staff rallied to keep our libraries in operation during one of the most challenging times we’ve ever experienced.” 

Hodel also received a lifetime achievement award for her leadership of the library system.