| OC Public Libraries

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Receives 2026 NACo Achievement Award

July 20, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (July 20, 2026) – OC Public Libraries (OCPL) has been awarded a NACo Achievement Award from the National Association of Counties (NACo), recognizing outstanding innovation in county government. NACo’s annual Achievement Awards honor effective, forward‑thinking programs that strengthen services and improve the quality of life for residents.

Orange County Public Libraries Crafty Adults Program

Crafty Adults is a pilot program that brings creative arts experiences to adult patrons across all 29 OC Public Libraries branches. Designed to foster meaningful social interaction, particularly among older adults, Crafty Adults helps reduce isolation and strengthen community connections. By prioritizing funding and thoughtfully designing programming, this initiative ensures the library truly offers something for everyone. Traditionally, craft programs focus on children, and older adults are rarely the main audience; this project fills that gap by providing creative and enriching experiences specifically for adults. It offers a welcoming space for older adults to gather, enjoy the library, and learn new skills. Each quarter, OC Public Libraries staff develop an engaging, skill-appropriate craft and centrally provide the materials, enabling branches systemwide to host programs with consistency and flexibility. By offering free, accessible creative experiences, Crafty Adults supports mental and emotional well-being and encourages lifelong learning.

Further descriptions of all the award-winning programs are available on the NACo website: naco.org/page/achievement-awards

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Welcomes Bestselling Author, Daniel Silva

July 16, 2026

Laguna Hills, Calif. (July 16, 2026) – OC Public Libraries is proud to present A Slice of Literary Orange, a series featuring keynote speakers throughout the year in celebration of literacy.

Daniel Silva has been called his generation’s finest writer of international intrigue and one of the greatest American spy novelists ever. Compelling, passionate, haunting, brilliant: these are the words that have been used to describe the work of award-winning and #1 New York Times bestselling author Daniel Silva. He is best known for his long-running thriller series starring spy and art restorer Gabriel Allon. Silva’s books are critically acclaimed bestsellers around the world and have been translated into more than thirty languages.

WHO:	Daniel Silva is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and is one of the most prolific spy novelists of all time.
WHEN:	Wednesday, July 22 at 6:30 p.m.
WHERE:	Laguna Hills Community Center – 25555 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
WHY:	OC Public Libraries’ mission is to provide access to information and promote literacy at all ages. Access to world-class authors inspires reading communities to meet powerful role models in the literary world. A Slice of Literary Orange celebrates literacy and promotes books and reading!
REGISTRATION:	No registration required. Early arrival is suggested. Limited complimentary books are available while supplies last. Admission does not guarantee a free copy.
OTHER LINKS:	Author Daniel Silva - https://ocpl.org/page/slice-literary-orange

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Presents Bestselling Author Melissa de la Cruz

June 8, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (June 8, 2026) – OC Public Libraries welcomes Melissa de la Cruz, the #1 New York Times, #1 Publishers Weekly, and #1 IndieBound bestselling author of more than fifty critically acclaimed and award-winning books for readers of all ages. Her novels have appeared on the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Los Angeles Times bestseller lists and have been published in over twenty countries, reaching millions of readers worldwide.

Joining the conversation is Marie Lu, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of more than fifteen novels, including Legend, Red City, The Young Elites, Warcross, Skyhunter, and Stars and Smoke. A graduate of the University of Southern California, Lu began her career as an artist in the video game industry before becoming a full‑time writer. She lives in Los Angeles with her family and enjoys reading, drawing, gaming, and navigating Southern California traffic.

Limited complimentary books available, while supplies last. No registration required, all ages welcome. Early arrival suggested.

WHO:	Melissa de la Cruz is a bestselling and award-winning author.
WHEN:	Monday, June 15 at 6:00 p.m.
WHERE:	Aliso Viejo Library – 1 Journey, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656
WHY:	OC Public Libraries’ mission is to provide access to information and promote literacy at all ages.
REGISTRATION:	No registration required. Early arrival is suggested.
OTHER LINKS:	Melissa de la Cruz - https://ocpl.org/author-melissa-de-la-cruz

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Presents Summer Reading Program 2026

June 8, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (June 8, 2026) – This summer, OC Public Libraries invites children and families to dig into “Plant a Seed, Read”, a reading program that encourages children, teens, and adults to read throughout the summer. From June 15 through August 2, participants can enjoy branch programming, grab‑and‑go craft kits, weekly scavenger hunts, curated reading lists, a reading challenge, and a variety of engaging activities. From teen workforce skills workshops and educational STEAM programs to magic shows, storytimes, and book clubs, the library offers something for everyone and is the place to be this summer. Signing up for the reading challenge is simple: visit ocpl.beanstack.org or download the free Beanstack app to create an account and register all the readers in your household. Participants can complete activities to earn virtual badges, making the experience both interactive and rewarding. Paper reading logs are also available at all library branches.

As part of this year’s Summer Reading Program, OC Public Libraries is also proud to present a special Children’s Author Series featuring award‑winning and bestselling authors. This series offers young readers a meaningful opportunity to connect with the creators whose words have empowered, inspired, and entertained them. OC Public Libraries invites children and families to meet an extraordinary lineup of acclaimed authors, illustrators, and storytellers whose work sparks imagination, curiosity, creativity, and a love of reading. From award-winning picture book creators and graphic novelists to bestselling nonfiction writers and cultural innovators, the Children’s Author Series offers young readers the opportunity to connect with inspiring voices from across the literary world. Through these free events, OC Public Libraries continues its commitment to promoting literacy and lifelong learning while fostering meaningful connections between readers and the creators of the stories they love.

The summer fun starts with a Kickoff Event at the newly reopened Aliso Viejo Library. Every OC Public Libraries branch will be celebrating in its own way, so visit your local library to discover the events, activities, and fun happening near you.

Summer Reading Program Kick-Off Event with Author Ben Clanton

WHO: 

Ben Clanton is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator of children’s books and graphic novels, best known for his Narwhal and Jelly series.

WHEN: 

Monday, June 15 at 11:00 am

WHERE:

Aliso Viejo Library – 1 Journey Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

For more information about Summer Reading please visit https://ocpl.org/summer-reading-2026

Children’s Author Series

WHO:

Marcelo Verdad– Tuesday, June 16 at 10:30am at the El Toro Library

Marcelo Verdad is an author and multi‑creative artist known for his vibrant and imaginative approach to picture books. He is dedicated to telling stories from fresh and unconventional perspectives. Marcelo views children’s literature as an opportunity to offer young readers meaningful tools for navigating the world with kindness, openness, and compassion

El Toro Library

24672 Raymond Way, Lake Forest, CA 92630

Steve Sheinkin – Monday, June 22 at 1pm at the Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library and Tuesday, June 23 at 1pm at the Garden Grove Chapman Library

Steve Sheinkin is an acclaimed author of fast paced and cinematic nonfiction for young readers. A former textbook writer, he is known for creating compelling narratives that bring history to life. His books cover a wide timeline of American history and include King George: What Was His Problem? and The American Revolution, a Newbery Honor book, along with Bomb, Fallout, Undefeated, Born to Fly, The Port Chicago 50, Impossible Escape, and The Bletchley Riddle. He is widely recognized for transforming complex historical events into engaging and accessible stories for young readers.

Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library

1855 Park Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Garden Grove Chapman Library

9182 Chapman Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92841

Wendy Xu – Wednesday, June 24 at 1pm at the El Toro Library

Wendy Xu is a bestselling and award nominated illustrator and comics artist whose work has reached readers across a wide range of genres. She is the creator of Infinity Particle and Tidesong, and the co-creator of Mooncakes, a young adult fantasy graphic novel.

El Toro Library

24672 Raymond Way, Lake Forest, CA 92630

Andy Harkness – Tuesday, July 7 at 1pm at the Garden Grove Chapman Library

Andy Harkness is the author and illustrator of Wolfboy, which received two starred reviews, as well as Bug Zoo. He is an award-winning art director whose film credits include work on Moana, Frozen, Wreck it Ralph, and other major animated features. Harkness is known for his distinctive visual style and his ability to bring imaginative worlds to life for young audiences.

Garden Grove Chapman Library

9182 Chapman Avenue Garden Grove, CA 92841

Joey Spiotto – Wednesday, July 15 at 1:00pm at the San Juan Capistrano Library

Joey Spiotto is a New York Times bestselling illustrator and author known for his picture books and graphic novels, including Max, a Little Axolotl, Grumpy Unicorn, and the officially licensed titles Alien Next Door and Klingon Next Door. He is recognized for his imaginative style and engaging visual storytelling.

San Juan Capistrano

31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Benson Shum – Tuesday, July 21 at 11am at the Tustin Library

Benson Shum is an award-winning children’s book author and illustrator whose work is known for its warmth and creativity. His titles include Anzu the Great Kaiju, an ABA Kid’s Indie Next Pick and recipient of the Outstanding Achievement in Social Emotional Literature Award from the Children’s Literature Council of Southern California. School Library Journal praised the book as “a triumph” in a starred review. Shum is also an animator at Walt Disney Animation Studios, where he has contributed to films such as Frozen, Big Hero 6, Zootopia, Moana, and Encanto.

Tustin Library

345 E. Main Street, Tustin, CA 92780

Mike Alfaro – Wednesday, July 22 at 1pm at the San Juan Capistrano Library

Mike Alfaro is a writer and creative director known for transforming the traditional game of Lotería into the viral cultural phenomenon Millennial Lotería. He is also the creator of Sí Sabo Kids, a bilingual collection of books and games that introduces young children to Spanish language and Latino heritage through playful and culturally rich storytelling. Alfaro’s work has earned wide recognition for its creativity, cultural impact, and ability to connect with audiences across generations.

San Juan Capistrano

31495 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

Kate Messner – Thursday, July 23 at 1pm at the Tustin Library

Kate Messner is a New York Times bestselling and award-winning author whose books inspire curiosity and wonder in young readers. Her books include History Smashers, a popular middle-grade nonfiction series that debunks common myths and explores the hidden truths behind major events in American history. Aimed at readers ages 8 to 12, the books use a fast-paced mix of graphics, sidebars, and illustrations to make historical facts engaging and accurate.

Tustin Library

345 E. Main Steet, Tustin, CA 92780

WHY:

OC Public Libraries’ mission is to provide access to information and promote literacy at all ages. Access to world-class authors inspires reading communities to connect with diverse and powerful role models in the literary world.

REGISTRATION:

No registration required. Early arrival is suggested.

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Presents USA 250 Programming

June 5, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (June 5, 2026) – Join OC Public Libraries in celebrating 250 years of the United States with a summer of stories, history, and community. In honor of America’s semi quincentennial, OCPL is offering a variety of programs that highlight the people, places, and moments that shaped our nation. Throughout the season, branches will host patriotic crafts, musical performances, trivia nights, and special author events that bring American history and culture to life for readers of all ages.

As part of this celebration, OC Public Libraries is also promoting the Read Across America 2026 Reading Challenge, a yearlong journey that invites readers to explore stories from coast to coast. Log your reading, complete activities, and earn badges as you travel through America’s literary landscape. Choose your reading goal of 100 Books, 100 Hours, or 100 Days and sign up at ocpl.beanstack.org. Limited edition America 250 library cards will also be available in July while supplies last.

Author Events

WHO:	Steve Sheinkin is an acclaimed author of fast paced and cinematic nonfiction for young readers. A former textbook writer, he is known for creating compelling narratives that bring history to life. His books cover a wide timeline of American history and include King George: What Was His Problem? and The American Revolution, a Newbery Honor book, along with Bomb, Fallout, Undefeated, Born to Fly, The Port Chicago 50, Impossible Escape, and The Bletchley Riddle. He is widely recognized for transforming complex historical events into engaging and accessible stories for young readers.
EVENT SCHEDULE:	Monday, June 22 at 1 PM Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library 1855 Park Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627 Tuesday, June 23 at 1 PM Garden Grove Chapman Library 9182 Chapman Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92841
WHO:	Kate Messner is a New York Times bestselling and award winning author whose books inspire curiosity and wonder in young readers. Her titles have received numerous honors, including selections by the Junior Library Guild and Bank Street College of Education, as well as the E. B. White Read Aloud Medal. Kate Messner is the author of History Smashers, a popular middle-grade nonfiction series that debunks common myths and explores the hidden truths behind major events in American history. Aimed at readers ages 8 to 12, the books use a fast-paced mix of graphics, sidebars, and illustrations to make historical facts engaging and accurate.
EVENT SCHEDULE:	Thursday, July 23 at 1 PM Tustin Library 345 E. Main Street, Tustin, CA 92780

Library Programs

Patriotic Crafts

Friday, June 12, 2026, at 10:00am

Laguna Woods Library

24266 El Toro Road

Laguna Woods, CA 92637

Get ready to celebrate Flag Day and Independence Day with this special all ages craft workshop! Join us to make pinwheels, pennants, and more to celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday.

Craig Newton: An American Musical Journey

Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 10:00am

Laguna Woods Library

24266 El Toro Road

Laguna Woods, CA 92637

Celebrate America’s 250th birthday with musician Craig Newton, who will be sharing popular songs from a variety of time periods in our nation’s history using 10 different instruments.

USA 250th Anniversary Trivia

Wednesday, July 8, 2026, at 5:30pm

Tustin Library

345 E. Main Street

Tustin, CA 92780

Celebrate 250 years of the United States with an evening of trivia, surprising history, pop culture, and all-American fun! Test your knowledge of the people, moments, and milestones that shaped the nation as you compete for exciting 250th anniversary-themed prizes. Bring your friends, your team spirit, and your best trivia skills!

For more information about the Read Across America: 2026 Reading Challenge, please visit https://ocpl.org/read-across-america-2026-reading-challenge

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Employee of the Month Cecilia

June 2, 2026

Graphic of Employee of the Month for OC Public Libraries, featuring photo in the center of woman named Cecilia — EOM_Cecilia_Homepage.png

Join us in celebrating Cecilia from Villa Park, our Employee of the Month!

Cecilia is a kind and reliable employee who brings positivity and consistency to her workplace. She has been with OC Public Libraries for over 20 years, having worked most recently at the Heritage Park branch before joining the Villa Park team. She has continued to grow and expand her talents and knowledge, demonstrating dedication to both her professional development and the success of OCPL. Cecilia is a team player who is continually open to trying new things. Both the staff and the public deeply appreciate her hard work and upbeat approach to library services.

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Presents Lunch at the Library 2026

May 25, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (May 25, 2026) – OC Public Libraries is excited to announce Lunch at the Library for summer 2026, providing free meals to children and teens 18 and under at select branch locations. This initiative provides free nutritious meals and alongside engaging enrichment programming including a children’s book author series, craft activities, STEM programs, teen workforce skills workshops, and more.

No registration is required, and meals are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that young readers can enjoy a summer filled with books, creativity, and community support.

Lunch at the Library is available at:

Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library

1855 Park Avenue

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

June 15 - July 10

Monday - Friday

Noon - 1:00pm

Character Days

June 25 - Clifford

July 9 – Rainbow Fish

El Toro Library

24672 Raymond Way

Lake Forest, CA 92630

June 15 - August 7

Monday - Friday

Noon - 1:00pm

Character Days

June 17 - Elephant and Piggie

August 7 – Esteban the Green Crayon

Garden Grove Chapman Library

9182 Chapman Avenue

Garden Grove, CA 92841

June 1 - July 16

Monday - Thursday

Noon - 1:00pm

Character Days

June 10 - Paddington Bear

July 15 – Froggy

San Juan Capistrano Library

31495 El Camino Real

San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675

June 15 - August 7

Monday - Friday

Noon - 1:00pm

Character Days

June 30 – Cookie Mouse

July 21 – Red Crayon

Tustin Library

345 E. Main Street

Tustin, CA 92780

June 1 – July 31

Monday - Friday

Noon - 1:00pm

Character Days

June 1 – Elephant and Piggie

July 30 – Curious George

OTHER LINKS:

OC Public Libraries Summer Author Series - https://ocpl.org/summer-reading-2026

This institution is an equal opportunity provider. The Summer Food Service Program is a program of the U. S. Department of Agriculture, administered in California by the California Department of Education. Lunch at the Library is a project of the California State Library, supported with funds from the State of California.

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Presents Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 2026

April 30, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (April 30, 2026) – OC Public Libraries is pleased to commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month throughout May. This month long celebration honors the rich cultural heritage, contributions, and stories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. We invite the community to join us for a series of engaging events, including author talks and a music appreciation series.

Events during Asian American and Pacific Islander Month 2026:

Author Events

WHO: 

Jet Tila is a culinary trailblazer, best-selling author, and expert in modern Asian cuisine. He has appeared on numerous Food Network shows including Chopped, Iron Chef America, Cutthroat Kitchen, and Guy’s Grocery Games, and has served as a judge and competitor. Jet owns several restaurants across the U.S. and has co-authored cookbooks such as 101 Asian Dishes You Need to Cook Before You Die. Known for blending tradition with innovation, Jet brings energy, precision, and cultural depth to every dish.

WHEN: 

Monday, May 4th at 6:00 p.m.

WHERE:

Aliso Viejo Library – 1 Journey Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

WHO: 

Candice Kumai is an award-winning author, Le Cordon Bleu–trained chef, and longtime TODAY Show contributor. Named “The Golden Girl of Wellness” by ELLE and Forbes, she is a 14-time award-winning writer and seven-time bestselling author of books including Kintsugi Wellness and Clean Green Eats. Known for bridging Japanese heritage with modern wellness, Candice is a trusted voice across food, beauty, and culture. She has served as Editor-at-Large for Shape and Men’s Journal, appears on Iron Chef America, Top Chef, Beat Bobby Flay, and Selena + Chef, and hosts the Wabi Sabi podcast.

WHEN: 

Wednesday, May 6th at 6:00 p.m.  

WHERE:

Cypress Library – 5331 Orange Ave Cypress, CA 90630

LINKS: 

AAPI Heritage Month 2026

AAPI Heritage Month 2026 | OC Public Libraries

Music Appreciation Series

Join us for a special music appreciation series! Music lovers of all ages are invited to visit the library and enjoy a performance by world-renowned Chinese zither musician, Bei Bei, and her traditional Chinese ensemble.

No registration required, all ages welcome. This project is funded in part through a grant from the California Department of Aging and administered locally by the Orange County Office on Aging.

Thursday May 7th at 5:00pm

Foothill Ranch Library

27002 Cabriole Way

Foothill Ranch, CA 92610

Saturday May 9th at 5:00pm

Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library

1855 Park Avenue

Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Saturday, May 23rd at 5:00pm

Fountain Valley Library

17635 Los Alamos Street

Fountain Valley, CA 92708

Thursday, May 28th at 4:00pm

San Clemente Library

242 Avenida Del Mar

San Clemente, CA 92672

Saturday, May 30th at 3:30pm

Cypress Library

5331 Orange Avenue

Cypress, CA 90630

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/

Media Alert: OC Public Libraries Welcomes Pulitzer Prize Winner Percival Everett

April 30, 2026

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (April 30, 2026) – OC Public Libraries is pleased to announce One County, One Book, a community reading program centered around the book James by Percival Everett. This critically acclaimed bestselling novel won the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction as well as the 2024 National Book Award.

Percival Everett is a Distinguished Professor of English at the University of Southern California and one of the most acclaimed contemporary American writers. His latest novel James, is the 2025 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction award winner. The novel is a reimagining of Mark Twain's Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, told from the perspective of the enslaved character Jim. It is lauded as an action-packed, insightful look at agency, literacy, and racial supremacy.

This community reading program unites our Orange County communities through a shared reading experience. Together, we will explore and discuss one book’s themes, fostering dialogue, building community, and promoting a love of reading. From April through June 2026, book clubs throughout Orange County are reading and discussing James. We invite the community to continue the conversation at this event.

WHO:	Percival Everett, author of James, the 2025 Pulitzer Prize winner for Fiction.

WHEN:	Thursday, May 7, 2026, at 6:30 p.m.
WHERE:	Laguna Hills Community Center 25555 Alicia Pkwy, Laguna Hills, CA 92653
WHY:	OC Public Libraries’ mission is to provide access to information and promote literacy at all ages. Access to world-class authors inspires reading communities to connect with diverse and powerful role models in the literary world.

LINKS: 

One County, One Book 2026

https://ocpl.org/one-county-one-book-2026

REGISTRATION:

No registration required. Early arrival is suggested. Complimentary books available, while supplies last.

Music Appreciation Series

OC Public Libraries is presenting a companion music appreciation series to deepen engagement with this year’s One County, One Book selection. These performances connect storytelling, history, and music, offering audiences new ways to experience the themes of James and extend the conversation beyond the page.

Jericho Law, Pianist - Celebrate literature through music at a special live performance by acclaimed pianist Jericho Law, inspired by this year’s One County, One Book selection, James by Percival Everett. Through a dynamic and expressive program, Law explores themes of identity, resilience, and voice - echoing the novel’s powerful reimagining of a classic American story.

Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Aliso Viejo Library

1 Journey, Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Wednesday, May 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m.

Brea Library

1 Civic Center Circle Brea, CA 92821

Rigo Moreno Quintet - Join us for a cultural presentation of Pre-Civil War-era music by the Rigo Moreno Quintet. Complementing the library's reading of James by Percival Everett, the performance will focus on the musical culture and experience of Black Americans during that time period. The performance will feature a variety of spirituals, slave songs, work songs, and blues. The presentation will also include several short excerpts explaining the historical relevance and importance of each musical piece.

Saturday, May 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Westminster Library

8180 13th St Westminster, CA 92683

Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Costa Mesa Donald Dungan Library

1855 Park Avenue Costa Mesa, CA 92627

Saturday, June 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m.

Aliso Viejo Library

1 Journey Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

OC Public Libraries (OCPL)

OC Public Libraries is a vibrant network of 29 branches, and a satellite location at the Orangewood Children and Family Center, delivering vital library services across the county. With a strong commitment to early literacy, OCPL nurtures a passion for reading in young learners, while also providing robust programs and resources for teens, seniors, and everyone in between. Offering access to over 1.7 million materials, as well as a vast range of online resources and streaming services, OCPL empowers individuals at every stage of life. Our mission is rooted in promoting lifelong learning, fostering community connections, and ensuring free, open access to knowledge and tools that enrich lives. Through innovative programming, we support diverse needs, encourage personal growth, and strengthen the fabric of our community. Our services help people of all ages thrive. At OC Public Libraries, books are just the beginning.

More information at https://ocpl.org/