Introduction to Genealogy: participants will follow the instructor as she uses her own ancestor to demonstrate the features of Ancestry.com library edition and HeritageQuest.

Drop in to get assistance with and ask questions about downloading library books to your computer and other devices, such as the Kindle, Nook, iPad, iPod, iPhone and Android phones and tablets.

SHINE counselors provide free, unbiased and confidential counseling to Medicare beneficiaries, their caregivers and those soon to be eligible.

Free unbiased counseling for Medicare from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 

For Medicare appointments call the Elder Help Line at 1-866-413-5337 to request a referral to a SHINE Medicare Counselor.  

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups.

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups.

Sign up to practice what you learned in Genealogy Basics, Parts 1 and 2, or to continue researching your family history using the library's Ancestry Library Edition and Heritage Quest databases and/or genealogy websites. 

Join us on the 2nd Monday and 4th Tuesday of the month. We supply the coloring pages and pencils.

Librarian Charlotte Thompson leads a monthly book discussion group. 

The Literacy Council of Sarasota - 

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Class

Registration required through The Literacy Council of Sarasota.

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups.

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups.

Advanced Research : Use your own ancestor to search Ancestry and HeritageQuest. To begin your personal search bring the complete name, dates (birth/death), and location of where this family member lived or might have lived.

Interested in genealogy or building your family tree? Let us help! Visit our genealogy volunteer for one-on-one assistance. See the Reference Desk for more information.

VPL patrons playing chess and teaching the game to others

Learn how to enjoy the holidays without spending all of your time in the kitchen.  Chef Warren will offer some great ideas for appetizers and main courses.  Sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

Come create, play, or just relax at the library after school.  Our Teen Room is open from 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Teens in grades 6 through 12 are welcome to hang out, play games, and more.

2 Part Sewing Series. Learn Absolute Basic Sewing Skills on Brother sewing machines in Part 1 and then actually make something in Part 2. Must attend this class to take part 2. Registration Required.

Come to the teen room and choose from a variety of board games like Apples to Apples, Balderdash, Uno, Scattergories, Scrabble and more.

Work on your own creations or build as a team. We provide the LEGOs, you provide the imagination.

Looking for something a little more advanced than basic Spanish lessons? Every Monday from 3:30-5, join an open group of intermediate Spanish speakers for a small discussion-oriented lecture.

Children are invited to read with certified pet therapy dogs. This program encourages conversation and develops reading and communication skills. The dogs love the attention and the kids love the interactions.

Children are invited to read with certified pet therapy dogs from Suncoast Humane Society. This program encourages conversation and develops reading and communication skills. The dogs love the attention and the kids love the interactions.

Join us for a monthly arts and crafts project! Follow along with our guided activity or use our supplies to work on your own independent project. 

Teen programs are recommended for ages 11 - 18.

Learn to knit or crochet! All ages and skill levels welcome! It is recommended to bring your own yarn and needles. Instructor-supplied yarns remain with the instructor weekly until piece is completed.

Monthly book discussion for tweens and teens. Instead of reading the book first and watching the movie adaptation second, we will watch the movie first, then read and discuss the book at the next meeting. Snacks will be provided.

Come use our Adobe/ Mac software and sewing machines on your own personal projects. Time slots are filled on a first-come-first-serve basis.

The chess club is an opportunity to play friendly games of chess in a low-stress environment. Patrons of all ages and levels are welcome to come, as help is given to those who need it! Chess boards and pieces will be provided.

Join us for our monthly family movie, Toy Story 4 (G) in the Storytime Room.