From the Director’s Desk – July 2026

Over the past 6 months, Citrus Libraries has invited the community to share feedback on how we can better serve Citrus County. More than 2,500 community members took time to share their feedback, experiences, and priorities. While we are currently reviewing all the feedback, I wanted to address a few common questions from the survey and share some updates.

Interlibrary Loans – Several comments expressed concern that interlibrary loans were no longer available. While this service was stopped for several months last year, we are happy to report that this service has been restored. The survey highlighted how valuable interlibrary loan service is for the community.

Hoopla – Many responses suggested that we should offer Hoopla. Hoopla is a digital streaming service for libraries. We’ve evaluated Hoopla and its service model, and currently due to cost, this provider isn’t a good fit for our library system. Digital content and streaming are available at Citrus Libraries through Libby and Kanopy.

Language learning – There was also a strong interest in language learning. We currently offer beginner Spanish and German classes, English language classes, and bilingual Storytimes. Over the past year, we have also grown our Spanish language book collection. Currently we are exploring additional programs and resources that will help patrons of all ages develop additional language skills.

Looking ahead, community feedback is already helping guide the future of Citrus Libraries.

We are currently working on:

• Expanding digital and physical collections to make more books and materials available to reduce wait times.
• Increasing the number of cultural programs and resources available.
• Continuing our commitment to literacy and early literacy through programs, services, and materials for all ages.
• Improving access to quiet spaces, study rooms, and meeting spaces.
• Identifying ways to support working families with evening and weekend services, programs, and events.
• Enhancing outdoor spaces with improved seating and programming opportunities.

We appreciate everyone taking the time to provide feedback on what they would like to see in the future for Citrus Libraries! Your ideas, experiences, and suggestions are already influencing the decisions we make today and the services we will offer tomorrow.

As we continue reviewing your feedback and implementing improvements, I encourage you to stay connected. Visit your nearest library branch, explore new programs and resources, and follow us online for updates as we introduce new services and initiatives throughout the year. Together, we are building a library system that reflects the needs, interests, and priorities of our community for generations to come.

– Adam Chang, Library Services Director