Ana’s Library Joins Growing Collection of Free Library Boxes in HW
New Little Free Library Box Honors Beloved Educator
Horizon West is now home to ten Little Free Library book-sharing boxes! The newest addition can be found at Summerport Neighborhood Park, an official Orange County park that is open and accessible to all residents.
Little Free Libraries are small, publicly accessible book-sharing boxes. They operate on a "take a book, leave a book" basis, allowing kids and adults alike to freely exchange books with others in their nearby community.
Dubbed Ana’s Little Free Library, the new library box was established and donated by Horizon West resident Jamie Swick as a loving tribute to her mother, Ana Ravelo-Ortiz. Ana was a mother, teacher, friend and mentor to many.
Ana arrived in the U.S. as a Cuban refugee at age 14. She strived to achieve her dreams and goals, and through her example, she taught others to do the same. She passionately believed in pursuing higher education and that you make a difference every day. As a church volunteer, a matriarch, and teacher of Spanish and ESL programs in East Norriton Middle School in Pennsylvania, she instilled these values in her students, her family and her community at large.
Her sudden and unexpected passing in 2007 was felt deeply by all those whose lives she had touched.
Ana's Legacy Enriches Our Community
When the Swick family decided to establish a Little Free Library in Ana's honor, they envisioned more than just a book exchange. They saw an opportunity to reinforce the values Ana cherished. The online description reads: “This library helps to promote literacy, kindness and community.”
“My sisters and I have all established Little Free Libraries in our communities in honor of Ana who valued education, literacy and community engagement. It is our way to honor her and support those same values,” said Jamie.
The library stands as a symbol of Ana's belief that every day holds the potential to make a difference. It's a place where the community can come together to share books and stories, find inspiration and creativity in new genres or topics, and donate to ensure everyone has access to educational resources — continuing Ana's mission to educate and unite.
Take a Book and Share a Book Today!
Participating in book exchanges is a rewarding experience that promotes reading, builds community and fosters a culture of generosity and shared learning amongst neighbors, all things Ana would be proud to endorse!
Visit Ana's Little Free Library at Summerport Park located at 14491 Bridgewater Crossings Blvd.
Find other Horizon West Little Free Library and book sharing boxes in our Horizon West Little Free Library Directory.
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