The Newport Public Library is kicked off celebrations of its 100th year in September 2019. As part of their efforts to celebrate the centennial at the library, they are hosting a yearlong history series focusing the history of different partner organizations in Lincoln County on the third Wednesday of each month through September 2020. This program is an opportunity for different partner organizations to share their history with our community.

For the January installment, Dr. Kerry Carlin-Morgan, director of education and volunteer services, will provide an overview of the Oregon Coast Aquarium’s history, its current operations and a vision for its exciting future on Wednesday, Jan. 15, from 6-7 p.m. in the McEntee Meeting Room of the Newport Public Library, 35 NW Nye St., Newport.

The aquarium was originally envisioned as an economic driver and tourist destination on the Oregon Coast. Not only has it fulfilled this mission, but with dedicated staff, beautifully crafted exhibitions and a diverse animal collection, it has become a powerhouse for marine education, animal care, and conservation. The aquarium is currently planning for the future with a master plan and capital campaign that will refresh their 28-year-old facility and expand their ability to provide greater rehabilitation and education services.

Carlin-Morgan joined the Oregon Coast Aquarium in 2005 as the director of education and volunteer services. She oversees the aquarium’s education, interpretation, exhibit signage and volunteer programs. She has a courtesy appointment with Oregon State University and works with graduate students on marine education and free-choice learning research and evaluation.

Carlin-Morgan did her graduate work at the University of Florida where she studied science education and wildlife conservation. Prior to coming to Oregon, she worked for the Memphis Zoo and Aquarium and the Georgia Museum of Natural History where she also managed education, outreach, volunteers and exhibit interpretation. As part of the senior team at the aquarium, she works closely with the architects and exhibit designers on the aquarium’s master plan which will lead the facility into an exciting new future.

This program is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.newportlibrary.org or call 541-265-2153.