This column, featuring information about OPL's Community Connections appeared in the June 22, 2025, edition of the Omaha World-Herald (NE). It is also available at Omaha.com (opens in a new tab).
Fostering community connections with Omaha Public Library
While Omaha Public Library’s (OPL) 13 locations are embedded across the city to serve diverse communities, we also believe the library and its impacts don’t end at our buildings’ doors.
Whether you’re attending a story time in a neighborhood park, seeing Poppy the mobile library pop up at community events, or exploring something new with a Discovery Pass, OPL wants to meet the community where they are — both literally and figuratively.
OPL’s Out & About Storytimes are a perfect example of this community connection in action. By partnering with local organizations like Lauritzen Gardens, Joslyn Castle, The Joslyn Art Museum, and local parks, OPL brings books, music, and movement directly to young readers. These story times provide fun, early literacy experiences in spaces that feel comfortable and convenient while reflecting Omaha’s unique offerings.
In that same spirit, adults are invited to join an Out & About Reading Party, a casual event designed to create community around books without the pressure of a formal book club. These gatherings — sometimes hosted in parks, breweries, museums, or other public spaces — invite people to simply show up with any book to read in the company of others, connect with fellow readers, and make time for reading in a social, welcoming atmosphere.
Hosted on the second Thursday of each month, the July 10 reading party will be held at Gene Leahy Mall near the pavilion, and the August 14 event will be at The Joslyn.
Poppy, OPL’s colorful mobile library, makes the library accessible and visible in every corner of the city. You may see Poppy driving in a parade — wave hello at the Heartland Pride Parade on July 12! — or popping up at other events with books to borrow, library cards to sign up for, and friendly staff on board to assist.
OPL can also help patrons explore and connect with the wider Omaha community through Discovery Passes. With a library card, you can check out free admission passes to some of Omaha’s most beloved sites including museums, theaters, and cultural institutions. You can even reserve a bike with Heartland Bike Share with the Discovery Pass program! These passes open doors to new experiences and make it easier for families and individuals to discover what our city has to offer.
Whether you come to the library or the library comes to you, OPL is dedicated to fostering curiosity, connection, and lifelong learning. The library is not just a place — it’s a partner in connecting people to ideas, information and services while building a stronger, more connected Omaha.
About Omaha Public Library
Omaha Public Library (OPL) strengthens our communities by connecting people with ideas, information, and innovative services, acting as an essential catalyst, collaborator, and connector. Learn about OPL's collections, facilities, services, programs and more at omahalibrary.org.
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