Library Policy Update and Community Programs
Board Approves Policy Update as Library Continues Community-Focused, Partner-Driven Services
The Board approved the Library’s updated Collection Development Policy, reaffirming its mission “to provide available materials that inform, educate, assist, entertain and enrich through the access to ideas, information and the arts.”
On October 28, 2025, Christopher Veach, County Librarian, briefed the Board of Supervisors on the Lake County Library Collection Development Policy update, reaffirming the Library’s commitment to professional standards and role as a focal point for community learning.
Fulfilling its legal and professional responsibilities, the updated Collection Development Policy ensures compliance with the California Freedom to Read Act, AB 1825. The policy reaffirms the Library’s mission to “support free inquiry and build a diverse, high-quality collection representing a range of viewpoints.” The Library treats reading, listening, and viewing as private matters and believes full, confidential access to information is essential. It provides materials free of charge, offers Wi-Fi and computer access, and hosts programs that promote literacy, learning, and community engagement at all four locations:
Lakeport Library
Redbud Library
Middletown Library
Upper Lake Library
Since his appointment in 2013, Veach has led and directed all library branches countywide. The Lake County Library receives primary funding through a local property tax approved by voters in 1974, while most library materials come from donations from the following:
Friends of the Lake County Library
Friends of Middletown Library
Individual members
The Adult Literacy Program receives additional support from the California State Library and the Lake County Literacy Coalition. The Lake County Library celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2024, as featured in our September 2024 newsletter, highlighting decades of providing reliable access to books, information, and learning opportunities for all Lake County residents.
Bringing the Library’s mission beyond the shelves, a key initiative of the Library is the family-favorite Storywalks monthly program. Made possible by funding and volunteers from the Lake County Literacy Coalition, the Adult Literacy Program hosts Storywalks in partnership with Clear Lake State Park. Park staff set up a picture book along a nature trail so families can read while walking. Storywalks provide children and families a fun, hands-on way to enjoy reading outdoors while strengthening literacy skills and fostering a lifelong love of books.
Expanding hands-on learning, Storywalks also helps recruit volunteers and connect learners with the Adult Literacy Program, which matches tutors with adults seeking literacy support, and is open to everyone. The Library works to break the cycle of illiteracy by creating a fun, supportive event for families. Thanks to Clear Lake State Park, the event and parking are free, while the Lake County Literacy Coalition leads crafts that reinforce the story’s themes. This program demonstrates true collaboration between the Park, the Library, and the Literacy Coalition, promoting literacy and connection while encouraging families to enjoy nature together.
Complementing Storywalks, the Lake County Library Bookmobile complements Storywalks by bringing library services directly to neighborhoods. Staff help participants get free library cards and check out books featured on the Storywalk to continue reading at home. Fabricated in 2023, the 24-foot mobile library carries nearly 1,000 books, DVDs, and more. Items not available on the Bookmobile can be requested from any Lake, Mendocino, or Sonoma County library and delivered to the Bookmobile at no cost. The Bookmobile also provides free public Wi-Fi, Chromebooks, and hotspots, expanding access to learning and information across the county.
To learn more about the Bookmobile, click here.
To learn more about the Library, visit here.
Through its programs, partnerships, and accessible resources, the Lake County Library helps residents read, learn, and connect. By fostering literacy, education, and community engagement, the Library supports residents in living their best lives across the county.