Upcoming Events

Join Louis Masur, Author and Professor, for the second in a series of three lectures on our Founding Fathers. In this lecture, you’ll learn about the first President, George Washington, and the lasting impacts of his presidency.

Join us for "Fall Prevention 101", a dynamic and informative workshop designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to reduce the risk of falls.

Self-care and maintenance will be enhanced through meditation, guided imagery and breathing techniques.

Come to listen or to play at this bi-monthly open mic jazz jam session for amateur performers. No registration is required. Bring your instrument, and if you would like to play, you may sign up when you arrive.

Join Sarasota Orchestra musicians Daniel Parrette, Assistant Principal Clarinet, and Fernando Traba, Principal Bassoon in a program featuring trios by Mendelssohn, Hurlstone and Glinka. 

Daniel Parrette, clarinet

Join us for a morning of Mahjong, a game of chance and strategy beloved around the world! Players of any experience level are welcome.

Get simple strategies for eating healthy and learn how to make delicious, healthy food!  You get to eat what you make and take home a bag of groceries.

Registration required. 

Join us for a free one-hour lecture and Q&A to learn about the vibrant marine ecosystems of the Arctic and Antarctic.

This program will be a Zoom lecture with a library staff member available to facilitate audience questions.

Patrons of all ages can transform blank notecards into beautiful nature - themed art using stencils and paint. Bring your creative spirit for this self-paced activity that employs a variety of art supplies.

Stumped by technology? Your technology questions can be answered through an in-person or distance appointment with one of our Tech Navigators. Tech Navigators are library staff members ready to assist you with technology skills.

In this interactive presentation, award-winning author Erin Silver will talk about why food waste is a problem, how it happens, and what we can do in our own homes to prevent it.

Want to play chess? Can’t find someone or somewhere to play? 

Open to chess players of all ages and abilities. Chess sets will be provided but you're also welcome to bring your own. 

Drop in to receive research-based lawn, landscape, pest management, and gardening help from the University of Florida.

These sessions are made possible through a partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.

Do you need access to a sewing machine for practice? Or do you need help with a sewing or mending project? This is an open lab for adults with basic sewing machine experience. 

Join us as Chef Warren teaches how to Use More Veggies, Fruit and Beans to Create Incredible Meals. 

Why not learn to incorporate veggies in creative ways!?

Registration required. 

Come and socialize with fellow knitting, crocheting and sewing enthusiasts! All levels welcome. Bring your current project to work on.

Stumped by technology? Your technology questions can be answered through an in-person appointment with one of our Tech Navigators. Tech Navigators are library staff members ready to assist you with technology skills.

Enjoy peaceful coloring with predesigned templates, or doodle your own patterns to color. Then use the button makers to turn your design into a functional piece of art!

Bring your projects, patterns, and questions to Elsie Quirk Library and join the Quirky Knitters for an afternoon of knitting and crochet.  All skill levels welcome.  Registration is not required, so come on in to knit and chat!

Join other local knitters and crocheters while working on personal projects and discussing all things knitting/crocheting. All skill levels welcome. 

Registration is not required, so come on in to knit and chat!

Sarasota County Extension Services Master Gardeners are here to help folks identify plants, flowers, etc. as well as care for them.

Get expert advice on your landscaping needs.

Improve your Spanish by joining the group.

Do you struggle to find your name in any theme park gift shop? Do you have the idea that would make a perfect gag gift, but nobody else seems to sell your sense of humor? We can help; come to the library and make your own mug!