A Conversation with Irvines City Librarian

Julie Zeoli, Irvine's first City Librarian, leads the transition of local libraries from County to City control, with the Heritage Park and University Park libraries scheduled to reopen on August 4 after renovations. The libraries will feature new furniture, computers, and a refreshed interior, alongside an integrated library system that Zeoli is developing from scratch. Plans include launching a new digital library to provide access to digital books and downloadable audiobooks. Zeoli also aims to add 10,000 to 15,000 new items to the existing collection of 167,000 books. The Katie Wheeler Library is set to transfer to City control on January 1, 2026, with plans for a new facility in District 1 to ensure continued library services in that area.

Zeoli highlights the "library of things" concept, which expands lending services to include items like musical instruments and telescopes. Community feedback is crucial, and Zeoli encourages residents to attend upcoming meetings to express their thoughts on library needs. This initiative reflects a broader trend in library services to adapt and meet changing community demands.