BOOKED: An Evening for Citrus Libraries Fundraiser comes to the Lakes Region Library in late February

The Citrus County Library system is excited to bring back the winter fundraising event hosted by the Library Advisory Board, in partnership with the Friends of the Library groups, to benefit the Citrus County Library System under a new name in 2025. On Saturday, February 22 at 6:00 PM, the Lakes Region Library in Inverness will open its doors for the inaugural BOOKED: An Evening for Citrus Libraries fundraiser. This year’s event will bring library supporters, Friends, and community members together to explore the newly renovated Lakes Region Library while enjoying music from DJ Tecniq, a silent auction and more!

The Cove Resort and Pub will be back again this year with a delicious selection of appetizers and the famous smashed potato bar. All attendee tickets will include two drink tickets, with a cash bar available as well.

This year’s silent auction will provide a variety of items for guests to view, including tickets to local attractions, an ecotour through the waterways of Crystal River, artwork from photographer Gary Kuhl, golf packages and more. During this fun-filled night, raffles will also be held for a chance to win incredible themed gift baskets provided by the Friends of the Library groups. Not to be forgotten and back by popular demand, the Wine Toss will give attendees a chance to test their skill and win a prize or two.

The evening is made possible by presenting sponsors Rowand Septic Services and the Suncoast Credit Union. Their continued support of the Citrus County Library System is always appreciated! In addition to our presenting sponsors, we would also like to thank Gold Sponsors: Duke Energy and the Citrus County Chronicle; Silver sponsors: Timberlane Family Dentistry, Worthington A/C & Heating, JM Gibson Mechanical, the Central Ridge, Coastal Region and Homosassa Friends of the Library, and Bob & Sandy Bramlette; Bronze Sponsors: Tim Herndon Plumbing, Suncoast Business Masters, the Floral City and Lakes Region Friends of the Library and Jose’ Weber.

All proceeds from this event stay here in Citrus County and will directly benefit the Citrus County Library System through the Library Foundation Fund as established by the Library Advisory Board. For a decade, Citrus Libraries worked with the advisory board and Friends groups to host an annual fundraiser that helped bring the fund to more than $800,000 at its peak. In the last two years, $600,000 from the fund has been used for the Lakes Region (Inverness) and Coastal Region (Crystal River) library renovation projects. As we continue to work diligently on the updates needed in our buildings, additional donations are necessary to replenish the fund. Continuing major renovation projects will keep our libraries’ flexible and vibrant spaces up-to-date and meeting the needs of the community.

Tickets are $50 each if purchased in advance at any library branch ($55 night of event), and can be secured with cash or checks made payable to the U.S. Family Foundation. For more information or questions, please contact Taylor Keeran at 352-746-9077 or email Taylor.Keeran@citruslibraries.org. You can also learn more about the event by going to the website, www.citruslibraries.org/support-us/booked/.