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/
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