On June 18, OUC, in partnership with Lift Orlando, unveiled a Little Free Library at Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center.
Located at the corner of 710 S. Tampa Ave., the new library offers engaging stories for all, from Dr. Suess’ timeless tales to Chicka Chicka Boom Boom. Readers can either take a book for themselves or leave one for another community member to enjoy. OUC donated books to fill the library’s shelves ahead of the event.
OUC employees Astrid Washington (center), Director of Residential and Commercial Customer Service, and Alandus Sims (right), Community Partnership and Projects Manager, spoke at the unveiling. Mark Shamley (left), List Orlando Vice President of Community Impact, also addressed the crowd.
“We’re proud to continue promoting literacy in the community that we serve,” said Luz Aviles, OUC Vice President of Marketing and New Products. “At OUC, our mission is to deliver exceptional value to our customers and community not just through electric and water service, but through meaningful partnerships that uplift and empower.”
“We’re incredibly grateful for our partnership with OUC, whose support has helped create a new access point to books and literacy in our neighborhood,” Shamley said.
Orange Center Elementary students painted the Little Library with tiger stripes to represent their mascot and other designs.
Orange Center Elementary School students assisted in painting the Little Library. Each surface has a unique and personalized design, from cows, aliens and clouds to dragons, tiger stripes and the White House.
Fourth-grade student Diego, who painted the library alongside his Orange Center classmates, helped unveil the library and shared his excitement with attendees.
“Their [the students’] work reminds those entering the Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center that reading makes dreams more possible,” Shamley said.
Since 2021, OUC has opened 11 Little Free Libraries and provided 4,000 books across its Empowerment Zone, which represents the 32805 zip code.
“Our support and growth of the Little Library program reflects our long-standing commitment to supporting education, strengthening communities, and working alongside partners like Lift Orlando to make a meaningful difference where it’s needed most,” Aviles said.
For more information about OUC’s Empowerment Zone projects, visit the OUC website.
