After an extensive and competitive recruitment process, the City of Irvine has selected Julie Zeoli as its first Librarian, a significant step in establishing a new Library Services division.
Zeoli comes to Irvine from the City of Yorba Linda, where she was Assistant Library Director and played a key role in the development and opening of the award-winning Yorba Linda Public Library in 2020.
“Establishing a public library system has been a long-awaited community priority and will allow us to expand our exceptional services in Irvine,” City Manager Oliver C. Chi said. “I’m excited to have Julie leading the development of our own library system. I can’t wait to see all she does to help us develop the best library operation that exists anywhere in the country.”
Library service within the City of Irvine is provided by the Orange County Public Library system, a network of 34 branches with three locations in Irvine: Heritage Park Library, University Park Library, and Katie Wheeler Library.
At its July 23 meeting, the Irvine City Council approved the transition of library services from the County of Orange to the City of Irvine. Irvine Public Libraries will open July 1, 2025, and will be a cornerstone of civic engagement, education, and community growth.
Plans are underway to further improve and expand library facilities across Irvine, including adding new library locations and offering enhanced services that foster vibrant, accessible, community spaces that meet the needs of an ever-growing city. As the library system evolves, Zeoli and City staff will seek input from residents through public meetings to ensure that library services meet the needs and desires of the community.
“I am deeply honored to serve as Irvine’s first City Librarian,” Zeoli said. “Public libraries are truly the anchor of a community and contribute to essential public programs and services. I look forward to working with the talented team here, developing a world-class library system, and fostering ideas and experiences that will enrich the lives of Irvine residents.”
Since 2006, Zeoli has held various roles at the City of Yorba Linda, including Teen Services Librarian, Adult Services Manager, and Assistant Library Director. Her leadership is defined by her vision for customer-centric, high-quality library services that foster a sense of community, making the library a welcoming and dynamic hub for all. Zeoli’s experience fostering meaningful partnerships will help build connections with local organizations, schools, and businesses to enhance library programming and outreach efforts throughout Irvine.
Zeoli holds a Master of Library and Information Science degree from San Jose State University.
Additional information about Irvine libraries and the transition from the County is available at cityofirvine.org/libraries.