A New Chapter for Lakes Region Library

Exciting changes are on their way to the Lakes Region Library in Inverness! The 15,000-square-foot facility, which opened its doors on Sunday, November 22, 1987, saw over 100,000 materials circulate last year and welcomed over 50,000 visitors. While the library has changed in the last 35 years, notably including the introduction of an internet-access computer area in the early 2000’s and adding a seed library and science display collection in 2022, it is now set for its first major renovation.

Library patrons will undoubtably welcome the updates to functionality, safety, and aesthetics. Guided by library best practices and conversations with patrons, the library system has outlined their goals for the renovation. The renovation project will introduce new study rooms and a second meeting space to facilitate programming and community events. Additional upgrades include new flooring throughout, improved shelving, restroom renovations, installation of modern lights, electrical enhancements, and a centrally-located service desk.

“The way that people use our libraries has changed over the years, and the Citrus County Library System wants to continue to bring the best experience to library users and to provide services and flexible spaces that are needed for our community. I grew up in these libraries, and it is exciting to be a part of guiding their future,” said Citrus Libraries Director Adam Chang.

Renovations will begin in Fall 2023 with a target completion date of Spring 2024. During the renovation period, the library will remain open and continue to offer access to public computers, books, and other materials. Programming and meeting spaces will be temporarily limited. The other four library branches of the Citrus County Library System and the digital collection will remain fully available.

Over $600,000 for these renovations was secured through a combination of sources, including the Library Advisory Board’s Foundation Fund managed at the US Family Foundation, CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act funding, and the Friends of the Lakes Region Library.

“Lakes Region is just the beginning,” said Director Adam Chang. “Over the next five to ten years, the Citrus County Library System plans to improve and expand other library locations and continue to grow and change with the needs of the community it serves.”

While the Citrus County Library System works to update the Lakes Region branch, there are still more projects on the horizon that will require additional funding. If you or someone you know would like to support the future growth of our libraries they can donate to the Library Advisory Board’s Foundation Fund managed by the US Family Foundation. This fund was created almost 15 years ago to assist with the renovations of the five branches of the Citrus County Library System.

Additionally, those who are interested in the progress of the renovation can stay up-to-date by following along online through the Citrus Libraries Facebook and Instagram pages. We look forward to celebrating these exciting changes as they’re occurring with the community that has supported our libraries for more than 35 years!