By Stacey Zwald Costello, Library Director
The Colusa County Free Library will adjust its operating hours across all seven branches beginning Nov. 3, 2025. The library’s mission remains to provide consistent, high-quality service and to continue being a vital community resource for learning, connection, and discovery.
With only half of its regular staff available and no funding for additional positions, the library is prioritizing continuity of service. Staff are working to balance coverage across all branches, keeping doors open and programs, materials, and internet access available in a sustainable way for both staff and patrons.
Despite every effort, ongoing budgetary challenges necessitate these changes. The library is actively seeking external funding sources to help rebuild staff capacity and restore the full range of services that the community has come to appreciate and rely upon.
Updated Library Hours:
Colusa: Monday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wednesday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Arbuckle: Monday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Wednesday 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Grimes: Thursday 2:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Maxwell: Tuesday 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Princeton: Wednesday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Stonyford: Wednesday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Williams: Tuesday/Thursday 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., Wednesday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Even with reduced hours, there is still a possibility that a branch may need to close unexpectedly if a staff member becomes ill or an emergency arises. With a small team already working at capacity, occasional closures are unavoidable. Patrons are encouraged to check the Colusa County Free Library Facebook page for the latest updates on unexpected closures or schedule changes or call the Colusa main line 530-458-7671. Notices will also be posted on branch doors as needed.
In addition, the library will be temporarily pausing Interlibrary Loan (ILL) services. Colusa County patrons overwhelmingly utilize the Zip Books Program for books not in our system, meaning that most ILL requests serve patrons in other communities or states. This service is costly in terms of staff time, postage, and the removal of items from our collections that would otherwise remain available to the Colusa County community.
The Colusa County Free Library remains deeply committed to serving the residents of Colusa County. By continuing to visit, borrow materials, and participate in programs, patrons help sustain the library’s role as the heart of every community it serves.
The library sincerely appreciates the public’s patience and understanding as we make these transitions and recalibrate our services.