On September 17, Orange County will launch a website update. While primarily a visual refresh, the redesign will include content and navigation improvements as well. The most significant change will be the integration of the Orange County Public Library's website. More information about this integration is below.
What’s happening?
The Orange County website is being updated, and the Orange County Library’s website will be incorporated into the Orange County website as part of that update.
Why the switch with the Library's website?
There are several reasons for the change.
- Combining the platforms will create a more seamless experience for those interacting with Orange County digital services.
- The change will make it easier for staff to keep information up to date and will allow additional staff and resources to assist with that process.
- The update will ensure that the Library’s web presence remains current with accessibility best practices and is in alignment with applicable state and federal code requirements as they come into effect. Many accessibility and translation features are already built-in to Orange County’s website.
What about the features I like, like the catalog and program calendar?
Don’t worry! Services like the materials catalog, the program calendar, access to digital resources like Hoopla, Libby, and others, will remain available and relatively unchanged. Users will just access those resources from a different starting point.
What about the www.ocplva.org web address?
It will still work. We intend to continue operation of that address for a while. It will simply redirect a user to the new webpage housed within the county site. Please be aware that interior page links may no longer work. For example, www.ocplva.org/learning/ may no longer work after the switch, but there will be a corresponding page housed in the new site. With that in mind, users may need to update bookmarks when first accessing the new pages.
Down the road, we may need to discontinue the www.ocplva.org address in order to comply with state code and to reduce costs, but there is no immediate need or plan to do so. Those who want to get ahead can bookmark www.orangecountyva.gov/library as the new main address. Please note that address will not display the new page until the scheduled launch.
So, what do I (the user) need to do?
No action is required. Those who want to get ahead can bookmark www.orangecountyva.gov/library as the new main address for the Library site. As mentioned, www.ocplva.org will continue to work alongside this address.
Please note the address will not display the new pages until the scheduled launch takes place.
What if I have questions or need assistance?
Contact any library branch for assistance, the Orange County Library will be partnering with Communications to help residents navigate the switch and to provide assistance locating services within the new site setup.