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Early Omaha: Gateway to the West
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One of former mayor A.V. Sorensen’s favorite sayings came from what he called his little brown book - “A Way of Life,” written by Sir William Osler -- Our main business is not to see what lies dimly at a distance, but to do what lies clearly at hand. This motto helped build the A.V. Sorensen Library and Recreation Center located on 48th and Cass Streets.

In 1913, the Village of Dundee contracted with the City of Omaha to use the Omaha Public Library. As the Dundee community grew, so did the demands for a neighborhood library. Dundee readers accounted for 14 percent of the bookmobile’s distribution in 1973. The community saw their chance as they eyed the former Hinky-Dinky store at 50th and Underwood. Spearheaded by Fran Schroen, Kay Bashus and other community leaders, they organized a petition and letter-writing campaign that resulted in 2,500 signatures in favor of a new branch library and recreation center at the old grocery store. But fate held other plans. When Mr. Sorensen realized the neighborhood’s need for a multifunctional facility, he donated the land he owned at 48th and Cass Streets.

The modern split-level center opened to the public on August 2, 1976 to neighbors who ventured in to see the new basketball court, game rooms and the spacious new library.

The Sorensen Branch Library is the recipient of numerous awards including a 1986 OPS (Omaha Public Schools) Partner in Education Award for “enhancing educational opportunities of the youngsters in our community.” The A.V. Sorensen Branch Library and Recreation Center continues to be a hubbub of educational and recreational activities for everyone, in and outside the Dundee community.

Early Omaha: Gateway to the West

SORENSEN BRANCH