Local leaders and community members gathered at Horizon West Regional Park today as the first ceremonial shovels of dirt turned for the groundbreaking of the newest Orange County Library System (OCLS) location. Horizon West Branch is part of a future 11-acre campus that will feature the 20,000 square-foot library and outdoor spaces, including an outdoor performance area. Library construction is scheduled for completion in late 2025 by H.J. High Construction Company.

“We are excited to move into the construction phase of this important project,” said OCLS CEO/Library Director Steve Powell. “West Orange County continues to grow, and we are pleased library services can grow alongside this vibrant community.”

Designed by Florida architecture firm Borrelli + Partners, Inc., Horizon West Branch is designed to incorporate into the natural landscape of the park and will feature a Florida native flower teaching garden and a nature path with a permanent StoryWalk® installation. Much needed community meeting spaces, including OCLS’ first outdoor events and performance space and three public meeting rooms that can be used independently or combined into one large area, will provide residents with gathering places available both during and after library hours. Designed with sustainability in mind, Horizon West Branch is projected to achieve LEED® Silver certification.

“As someone who grew up in Orange County, I’ve witnessed the transformative power of our library system,” said Crockett Bohannon, president of the Orange County Library System Board of Trustees. “Today we’re not just breaking ground on a new building, we’re laying the foundation for countless stories waiting to be discovered.”

The groundbreaking was attended by Orange County District 1 Commissioner Nicole Wilson, City of Orlando City Clerk Stephanie Herdocia and members of the Horizon West community.