Christal Bell-Rivera Selected as Escambia County Library Services Director

Escambia County has selected Christal Bell-Rivera to serve as the Library Services Director, overseeing West Florida Public Libraries and all library operations for Escambia County. Bell-Rivera's selection was confirmed by the Board of County Commissioners during the March 5 Board of County Commissioners meeting.

Bell-Rivera brings nearly 20 years of general management experience to the role, with a proven track record in library operations, budget administration, and developing and implementing short- and long-term plans, policies, and procedures. Her first day as director is Friday, March 6.

Bell-Rivera joined Escambia County in June 2022 as Library Director's Aide before stepping into the role of Deputy Library Services Director in March 2023. As Deputy Library Services Director, she supported executive leadership in managing library operations, programs, and staff while coordinating community outreach and special projects to expand library services. She has served as the Interim Library Services Director since August 2025.

"I'm excited that Christal has accepted the permanent director role," County Administrator Wes Moreno said. "She has demonstrated exceptional leadership, clear vision, and passion for our libraries. She has done excellent work during her time with Escambia County, and I am confident West Florida Public Libraries will continue to excel under her leadership."

Since transitioning into the interim role, Bell-Rivera has ensured seamless operational continuity, actively managing a recurring annual budget of over $12 million this fiscal year while overseeing over 100 employees and filling 12 important staffing vacancies in the library system. In her role as Library Services Director, Bell-Rivera will be responsible for overseeing day-to-day operations at WFPL's network of libraries, in addition to managing policy development and implementation, fund allocation, and personnel management for the libraries.

"I'm honored to be selected to lead West Florida Public Libraries," Bell-Rivera said. "I'm grateful to the Board of County Commissioners, Escambia County leadership, and our incredible library staff for the support they have shown me. I would also like to thank the Florida Division of Library and Information Services for their continued support of our library system. Libraries are a cornerstone of our community, and I look forward to continuing our work to provide a special place for the residents who visit our libraries each day."