The Citrus County Special Library District Advisory Board meeting on December 2, 2024, highlighted significant growth in library usage and upcoming community events aimed at enhancing public engagement.

One of the key discussions centered around the increasing number of library cardholders, which has shown a steady rise from 2022 to 2024. This trend is expected to continue into 2025, reflecting a growing interest in library services. Total circulation of library materials is also on the upswing, with both physical and digital collections seeing increased usage. Notably, digital materials are gaining popularity at a faster rate, prompting the library to allocate more budget towards expanding its digital offerings. A new digital library card is set to launch soon, which will further facilitate access to these resources.

The board also discussed circulation statistics by branch, noting efforts to enhance services at the Coastal Region Library through renovations and extended hours. The Lakes Region Library is set to celebrate its grand reopening on December 19, following significant upgrades. These improvements aim to boost circulation and community engagement across all branches.

In addition to circulation growth, the library is expanding its programming, particularly for youth and young adults. Attendance at library events has been increasing, with more programs being offered to engage the community. The board emphasized the importance of these initiatives in fostering a love for reading and learning among residents.

Looking ahead, the library system is gearing up for a series of holiday events, including a winter wonderland program at the Coastal Region Library and various holiday open houses across all branches. These events are designed to welcome the community back into the libraries and celebrate the festive season.

The meeting concluded with discussions about ongoing community support initiatives, such as the Toys for Tots program and the "Be a Santa to a Senior" campaign, which aim to provide gifts to children and seniors in need during the holidays. The library's commitment to serving the community remains strong, with plans for future programs and partnerships already in the works.

Overall, the meeting underscored the library's role as a vital community resource, dedicated to enhancing access to information and fostering connections among residents.