News Releases

During the week of September 30-October 6, Omaha Public Library (OPL) will participate in the 30th annual Banned Books Week by highlighting the value of free and open access to information. All are invited to attend a Banned Books Week panel discussion on Wednesday, Oct. 3, 6:30 p.m. at W. Clarke Swanson Branch, 9101 W. Dodge Rd. The panel will feature former OPL assistant library director Verda Bialac, author Marilyn Coffey, University of Nebraska at Omaha professor Dr. Charles Johanningsmeier, author and Omaha World-Herald columnist Rainbow Rowell, and author and University of Nebraska at Lincoln professor Timothy Schaffert. The panel will be moderated by Sally Deskins, blogger of "Les Femmes Folles: Celebrating Women in Art." Panel members will share their perspectives and answer questions about controversial book challenges and censorship. They will also take questions from the audience. The event is free and open to the public. 

Families who enjoy reading together are invited to Charles B. Washington Branch, South Omaha Library and Willa Cather Branch this fall. PRIME TIME FAMILY READING® is a six-week shared reading experience to help families discover great stories together. Each week, a storyteller will read aloud and discuss books. 

Learn more about one of the best genealogy collections between Chicago and Salt Lake City by attending a program designed for anyone interested in genealogy. The Greater Omaha Genealogical Society (GOGS) and Omaha Public Library will host the 4th annual Genealogy Lock-In on Friday, Sept. 28, 6:30-9 p.m., W. Dale Clark Main Library, 215 S. 15th St. 

On Tuesday, Sept. 25, Runza® Restaurants will conduct the 10th annual Great Books for Great Kids fundraiser. The funds will benefit Omaha Public Library (OPL). Last year, more than $30,000 was raised to benefit children in communities with Runza® locations and, in the past nine years, more than $240,000 has been donated.

Omaha Public Library is pleased to welcome five visiting authors in September. The upcoming events provide an opportunity for individuals of all ages and interests to meet some of their favorite authors and learn more about the inspiration behind their work. All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted. Books will be available for purchase and signing following author discussions.