Books Are Only the Beginning: The Winter Park Library
July 29, 2026
What is the Winter Park Library?
At the Winter Park Library in Winter Park, FL, books are just the beginning. Operating as a vibrant nonprofit hub for learning, this institution bridges the gap between its roots as a small-town reading circle and its role today as a world-class civic destination. Hear from Melissa Schneider, Executive Director, as well as other staff, board members, and patrons, about the Library's role in connecting people, guiding learning, and strengthening community.
Founded on December 9, 1885, by nine women who organized to create a lending library for their small community, the Winter Park Library has continually evolved to meet residents' changing needs.
What can I do at the Winter Park Library?
The Winter Park Library is made up of multiple spaces that create a vibrant, community-supported organization. Together, they are designed to connect people, guide learning, and strengthen community for generations to come.
In addition to checking out books and DVDs, Library patrons can utilize the Dream Lab, where entrepreneurs can use 3D printers to bring prototypes to life, and the Memory Lab, where patrons can digitize VHS tapes and other outdated media. A recording studio with microphones, recording equipment, and a weighted keyboard can also be utilized by musicians, podcasters, and more after an orientation session with Library staff.
The Library's Archives preserve a deep history of Winter Park, while Youth Services offers programming and resources designed for young readers and their families.
The Edyth Bush Theatre hosts author talks, kids' concerts, and other community events. It, along with the Murrah Community Room, and other Collaboration Rooms, can be rented by individuals or groups for use on Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm.
The New Leaf Bookstore is staffed entirely by volunteers for gently used books donated by the community. Books cost an average of just $1 and proceeds benefit the Library.
To learn more about these and other services offered, visit www.winterparklibrary.org.
How can I get a library card for the Winter Park Library?
There are several ways to access the Winter Park Library:
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- Winter Park residents and property owners are eligible for a free library card as long as their property is within the city limits. A government ID and proof of address are the only requirements.
- Non-residents can also purchase a six-month or one-year membership. Rates for non-resident cards are available on the Library's website.
- Orange County and Maitland Public Library cardholders, as well as Rollins College students, faculty, and staff can receive a free Winter Park Library card thanks to reciprocity agreements. Some restrictions do apply for reciprocal membership, and are listed on the Library's website.
- Winter Park Chamber of Commerce members are eligible for a free, one-year membership to the library. Member businesses may select one representative to serve as the cardholder. Instructions to sign up for this card are available on the Library's website. Learn more about the benefits of Chamber membership or apply today!
- City of Winter Park employees can sign up for a free, one year full-service card with a government ID, proof of address, and proof of employment.
- A Cirriculum Card is available to "permanent teachers, media specialists, and school librarians who work at schools within the City of Winter Park, OCPS schools zoned for the City of Winter Park, and to media specialists and librarians who work at schools that enroll City of Winter Park children for in-person learning." A list of participating schools is on the Library's website.
Plan a Visit
1052 W. Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Phone: (407) 623-3300
Hours: Mon–Thu: 9am–9pm, Fri–Sat: 9am–6pm, Sun: 12pm–6pm
Classes, programs, and community events available year-round
Visitor guide: https://business.winterpark.org/list/member/winter-park-library-5007660
About the Series
This video is part of a showcase highlighting the destinations of the Winter Park Arts & Culture Alliance, produced by the Winter Park Chamber of Commerce and made possible by a generous grant from the Edyth Bush Charitable Foundation.