A playful library and reading nook, perfect for storytime and fun, welcomed its first young readers today at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Dubbed the Flybrary, it’s the first of three Family Zones that will open at MCO this year.
“As young readers travel though our airport, the Flybrary invites them to take flight with new adventures.” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “Orlando International Airport has made Community a foundational pillar, and we believe a good community partner honors stakeholders by providing new and exciting spaces to explore and learn.”
The Flybrary’s aesthetics align with MCO’s design concepts by bringing Central Florida’s outdoors indoors. From the bookshelves resembling trees, stools resembling tree stumps, and carpet resembling water and plant life, the Flybrary evokes the natural beauty of the region.
Floating above it all is a special vintage Lake Eola swan boat that pays tribute to Billy the Swan, Lake Eola, and downtown Orlando’s iconic swan population. The swan boat was specially restored for display in the Flybrary.
The real Billy the Swan is recognized as being one of the first swans to be imported to downtown Orlando, before gaining an infamous reputation for his aggressive behavior. Nevertheless, Billy’s feisty attitude made him a hit with Orlando’s residents and his story reminds us that even the quirkiest characters can become legends.
The opening of the Flybrary, a concept first embraced by MCO’s Comfort Team, is helping to fulfill a GOAA vision: to elevate the passenger experience with amenities that delight guests.
“With the Flybrary, we are continuing to raise the customer experience here at MCO,” said Chief Customer Experience Officer Tawana Allen. “This project helps to improve the comfort level of our guests and allows them to experience Lake Eola’s popular swan boats in a different way.”
The Flybrary is located post-security in Terminal C, Level 2, near Gate 240 and is open to guests during regular Terminal C operations. Nontraveling guests can also access the Flybrary by applying for an Experience MCO Visitor Pass here: https://flymco.com/experience-mco-visitor-pass-program/
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83