Orange County Library System

Obituaries traditionally contain genealogical and historical information that is valuable for learning about a community’s heritage. Unfortunately, the number of obituaries being published through traditional media such as local newspapers is decreasing rapidly due to factors such as the financial expense for the bereaved family, as well as declining newspaper sales. As the number of published obituaries diminishes, communities are losing vital knowledge that could help future generations understand their heritage. Orange County Library System (OCLS) will work with other community partners to prototype and evaluate the feasibility of a new type of library service, an openly accessible online database of obituaries, where family and friends of the deceased can submit detailed obituaries as a tribute to their loved ones, and in doing so help build a meaningful history of the residents of the community. OCLS will explore technical, legal, financial, and other important considerations involved in providing such a service.