Today marked an exciting milestone for the residents of Horizon West—the groundbreaking ceremony for the brand new Orange County Library System (OCLS) Horizon West Library branch! This highly anticipated event signifies the beginning of a project that has long been in demand by the community. Touching speeches were given by the following representatives today:

• Danielle King, Chief of Neighborhood Services, Orange County Library System
• Commissioner Nicole Wilson, Orange County, Fla. District 1
• Crockett Bohannon, President, Orange County Library System Board of Trustees
• Steve Powell, Library Director and CEO, Orange County Library System

A Unique Library Experience

The upcoming library is not just any library; it’s designed to be a state-of-the-art facility uniquely positioned within the expansive Horizon West Regional Park. This strategic location will allow the library to serve as a pivotal community hub and event space for decades to come, catering to the diverse needs of Horizon Westers.

With the library planned to be situated between Horizon West’s Town Center and the Village of Bridgewater, it will be perfectly accessible for residents in the area. The proposed design features an impressive 20,000 square feet of library space, along with OCLS’s first-ever dedicated outdoor events area—an innovative addition sure to enhance community engagement.

Listening to the Community

The journey to this groundbreaking ceremony has been collaborative, with the OCLS actively seeking input from residents throughout the planning process. In March 2023, the architectural plans for the library were unveiled during a community meeting, sparking excitement and discussions about its design and functionalities. To ensure that the library aligns with the needs of the community, OCLS took feedback through a public survey. It was a unique opportunity for residents to voice their thoughts and influence the development of their new library branch.

Celebrate with Us!

Today, as we celebrate this groundbreaking achievement, we encourage all Horizon West residents to engage with the ongoing planning efforts. Your input is invaluable, and together we can create a library that truly reflects our community’s values and aspirations. This new library isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of togetherness, a place for learning, growth, and cultural exchange that will benefit generations to come.

Join us in embracing this exciting journey as OCLS takes a significant step toward enhancing our community’s resources. The future of Horizon West is bright, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!