United for Libraries honors Kendrick B. Melrose with Major Benefactor Citation

PHILADELPHIA — United for Libraries, in conjunction with the Orange County (Fla.) Library System, honored Kendrick B. Melrose with its Major Benefactor Citation for his significant contribution to the creation of the Dorothy Lumley Melrose Center for Technology, Innovation & Creativity.

A $1 million seed gift from the Kendrick B. Melrose Family Foundation paved the way for the center, a high-tech hub that opened at the Orlando Public Library in February 2014. The donation was the largest single private gift in the library’s history. Named for Melrose’s late mother, the 26,000-square-foot center is designed to foster creativity and collaboration. It features audio/video studios; a photo lab; 3D printers; flight, driving and construction simulators and a host of cutting-edge technology classes, plus regular public programs such as monthly Tech Talks. For more information about the center, visit http://tic.ocls.info. 

The Major Benefactor Citation is awarded by United for Libraries to recognize individuals, families or corporations that have made major gifts to libraries. For more information, visit www.ala.org/united/grants_awards/benefactor.

The Orange County Library System (OCLS) serves the 1 million plus residents of the library district. The system is comprised of 15 locations, the Orlando Public Library in downtown and 14 branch libraries. There are more than 1.7 million items in the collection. Numerous technology classes are offered along with author signings, special events and programs for all ages throughout the year.  

United for Libraries: The Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations, is a division of the American Library Association that supports those who govern, promote, advocate, and fundraise for libraries. United for Libraries brings together library Trustees, advocates, friends, and foundations into a partnership that creates a powerful force for libraries in the 21st century. For more information or to join United for Libraries, visit the United for Libraries website or contact Jillian Kalonick at (312) 280-2161 or united@ala.org

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