Week Calendar

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.

Want to learn more about Florida-Friendly gardens, composting, or citrus trees? Need a plant or insect identified? On the first and third Monday mornings of every month, from 10:00 a.m.

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. -1:00 p.m.  Then from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Keep calm and create. Current self-directed projects include: embroidery and friendship bracelets, beads, origami, mini artworks, crochet and color pencils.  Ask for the cart at the youth desk.

This program will be held at the Venice Community Center located at 326 Nokomis Ave S, Venice, FL 34285. 

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

Monthly book discussion. See the Book Club flier by the circulation desk for a complete list of future titles. 

Having trouble with your device? Need help syncing your eBooks? Come see Luis, our in-house tech expert! See the Reference Desk for more information.

Want to learn more about Florida-Friendly gardens, composting, or citrus trees? Need a plant or insect identified? Homeowners can receive research-based lawn, landscape and pest management help from the University of Florida.

The Florida Department of Health of Sarasota County, Health in Motion staff will be on-site to provide no-cost health screenings and referrals for general health and wellness.

Keep calm and create. Current self-directed projects include: embroidery and friendship bracelets, beads, origami, mini artworks, crochet and color pencils.  Ask for the cart at the youth desk.

Sign Language program for children 0 - 2 1/2 years old. Learn with Beebo the Signing Bear using songs, books, and toys. Older siblings welcome.

This program is geared toward babies from newborn to age 2 ½ years. The 45 minute program includes songs, baby sign language, a book and playtime. Older siblings are welcome.

For mobile babies to 5 years old.

Drop in to enjoy special play time with your child, meet our friendly Parenting Educators.

Books, puppets, songs, dance and more surprises. Geared for ages

3-5, but all are welcome to join the fun. Enjoy special guest Adrianne

Pezzella on Oct. 30  for “Fun To Be Fit Kids.”

For people who want to improve their French speaking skills and enjoy reading French-language articles and discussing them. Come practice speaking the romantic language of French.

Keep calm and create. Current self-directed projects include: embroidery and friendship bracelets, beads, origami, mini artworks, crochet and color pencils.  Ask for the cart at the youth desk.

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

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.

Get into the adult coloring craze ! Join us for a fun and unique way to unwind, reduce stress, and express your creativity at the Shannon Staub Library. All supplies will be provided. Artistic talent is not required. Refreshments are included.

This computer class will focus on using the Internet. The instructor will demonstrate how to go to a specific webpage and how to do a search. 

Socrates Café are gatherings around the world where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the central theme of the Socratic method: that we learn more when we respectfully list

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.

Early literacy begins at birth. Bond with your baby through stories, songs, parachute time and peek-a-boo scarf songs.

For ages 0-2 years old.

 Ask Bob, our local Windows expert, any questions about your PC or Laptop.

Keep calm and create. Current self-directed projects include: embroidery and friendship bracelets, beads, origami, mini artworks, crochet and color pencils.  Ask for the cart at the youth desk.

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.

The Great Books Discussion Group meets the 1st Thursday of each month, November through April. This group will be reading selections from the Great Books Foundation's Great Conversations 4.

This computer-based genealogy course covers the following topics: why study genealogy; how to get started; what sources are available; and how to organize and present your research.

For ages 0-5.  Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that include books, music, movement, crafts and play.  

Prescription Medication & Health Care Assistance for those that are uninsured and qualify financially.

Learn how to create a document using Microsoft Word.  Use fonts, point size, color, insert photos, print and save.  

Must be proficient with a keyboard.

For mobile babies to 5 years old. Drop in to enjoy special play time with your child, meet our friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots Family Center can help you enjoy parenting even more.

Preschoolers, ages 2 ½ - 5 and their parent, guardian or caregiver are invited to join us for stories, songs, finger plays, rhymes, and crafts. There is a different theme every week.

Students who attend Part 1 will continue to research their family history on the second day in Part 2 during which the class instructor is available to answer questions and help the students in their research.

Research your family genealogy online through Ancestry and Heritage Quest. Bring along your family names, dates and locations of your ancestors. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants.

The Life After Downton group meets to discuss British PBS programs, new films, and books along with a nice cup of tea. All are welcome to join.

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.

This month: Bryan Mulcahy: Using Church Records to Document Life Events. 

Church records are important component in genealogical research.  This is especially true in two major scenarios:

Celebrate the Florida winter season with an escape room, games and more! This is an extension of our Middle School Service Club and the Teen Advisory Board. Registration recommended.

For ages 3-11.  Bilingual stories, songs, and activities.  Learn new words and practice language skills.  Present by library volunteer, Lourdes Fuller. 

Practice speaking English in a group setting. Sponsored by the Literacy Council of Sarasota. Please call 941-955-0421 to register as an ESOL learner with 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.

Drop in for assistance using library technology including e-Books and audiobooks from Overdrive and the Cloud Library.

Come join us for this FREE seminar sponsored by SCORE Manasota, Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources, and Sarasota County Economic Development.

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

Join us for a fun-filled morning of reading, songs, dancing, learning Kindergarten readiness skills and craft activities.

For ages 3-6.

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.

Engage babies newborn to 18 months with movement to music, singing, rhymes and basic sign language to enhance social interaction and language development. Playtime follows.

Fridays, Sept. 21 - Dec. 14 with a break on Nov. 23

Talk and read to your child early and often!  In this program, enjoy fun, engaging and interactive activities with your child that also help develop the early literacy skills which are important for school success. 

In this one hour session you will learn Isha Kriya, a simple 12-18 minute practice, to help you meditate effortlessly.  Isha Kriya does not require previous experience with meditation and can be done sitting in a chair.  You will also sp

For mobile babies to 5 years old. Drop in to enjoy special play time with your child, meet our friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots Family Center can help you enjoy parenting even more.

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

The Chess Club meets every Tuesday from 12-4 in the computer lab. No registration required. 

Join us for our Double Feature Movie Showing of Mamma Mia! and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. You must register for each movie individually. 

Ask an E-Help volunteer for all your technology-related questions and predicaments. Held every Tuesday in the public meeting area.

Socrates Café is a gathering where people from different backgrounds get together and exchange thoughtful ideas and experiences while embracing the central theme of Socratic method: we learn more when we respectfully listen to and debate ideas wit

Want to learn more about Florida-Friendly gardens, composting, or citrus trees? Need a plant or insect identified?

Want to learn more about using a computer or your device?

Sign up for your 30 minute session with one of our librarians.

Sessions are set up for Wednesdays starting at 1:00 pm.

Call 941-861-1360 to sign up.

Everyone has stories that shaped their lives. Writing down events, memories, conversations, news, or anything you want, will help you remember the good, strengthen your memory, and teach you more about yourself.

Learn how to digitize 35mm, mounted slides, and 6x22 cm medium-format film. This program is a tutorial for the basic scanning and image editing process only.

Did you know that 20-30 minutes of LAUGHTER exercises can energize you for days after?

Join us on the first Thursday of the month to discuss our selection. Limited to 20 participants. Register at the Fruitville Reference Desk or call 941 861-2518

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.

Research your family genealogy online through Ancestry and Heritage Quest. Bring along your family names, dates and locations of your ancestors. Registration is required and limited to 10 participants.

Learn the fundamentals of sewing and make and take your own holiday themed hot pad. Fabric is pre-cut and all materials are provided. Limited to 6 participants.

On the first Friday afternoon of the month, watch a movie that is hosted by film professor Maryann Dahlen, who will invite the audience to discuss the movie after its showing.

Jack, The Computer Guy, will explain how your computer works and why it doesn't.

Bring your imagination to life with LEGO®! Come build machines, animals, architecture, monsters, and more every second Saturday of the month. LEGO pieces will be provided. For children ages 5-11.

A special Harry Potter themed holiday event! Enjoy games, music, refreshments, crafts, and more. 

This program is open to all tweens and teens in grades 6-12, and counts as community service.  Attend the joint monthly TAB Meeting to discuss & plan upcoming teen events, discuss collection needs, discuss volunteer issues and traini

Holiday Music Selections with Mark Trichka and Lisa Brande, long-time touring duet brings you the sweetest of your favorite holiday music, including classic popular holiday songs from Bing to Burl, beautiful carols and instrumental renditions

"Movement Matters: Mellow Moves for Active Older Adults" with Health and Fitness professional Terry Stocker. A kinder, gentler, lighthearted fitness class designed for active older adults.

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

Join us as Chef Warren shares how to enjoy the holidays without spending all of your time in the kitchen, Including great ideas for appetizers and the main course.

Seating is limited. Registration Required.

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.

New movies every Tuesday in the meeting room. Movie schedules are published bimonthly and available at the front circulation desk. 

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

A Sarasota Music Archive presentation. This month: Phyllis Lowitt discusses The Great Tenors. Voice of Firestone Classic Performances 1950-63.

Learn the fundamentals of sewing, from threading the machine to finishing touches. Make and take an item sewn by you!

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.

Join us for our Double Feature Movie Showing of Mamma Mia! and Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again. You must register for each movie individually. 

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

On the first Thursday of every month, everyone is welcome to share and discuss a book. A different book title is chosen every month to explore. This book club is sponsored by Friends of Gulf Gate Library.

For people who want to improve their Spanish speaking skills. Come practice your pronunciation and oral understanding through conversation and instruction of this romantic language. Everyone is welcome.

Are you a movie buff? Interested in watching critically acclaimed films and learning a little bit about the movie industry as well?

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

Meets every first and third Friday of the month.

Topics vary each session but always a lively science subject.

Meets every first and third Friday of the month.

Topics vary each session but always a lively science subject.

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

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 interaction.

This group is great for teens who love creative writing. Some things that our meetings will cover include: designing characters, writing short stories (or even long ones!), poetry, plotlines, group projects, story prompts, games, and more!

Tuesdays, Aug. 14 - Dec. 18 from 3 - 5:30 p.m.

Drop in and play a variety of board games including Harry Potter Clue, Ticket to Ride, Munchkin, and more!

Join us weekly for our Girls Who Code Club and create a technology based service project.  Learn technology and leadership in this nationally recognized program.

Join us for an afternoon of strategy, friends and fun! Recommended for ages 8+. All skill levels welcome!

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.

Crafters of all types are welcome! (knitting, crocheting, embroidery, beading, scrapbooking, etc.)

Bring your own materials and ask others for tips to complete your project.

Fridays, Aug. 17 - Dec. 14 at 3 p.m.

with a break on Nov. 23

Chill with friends and watch a movie.

Kids are welcome to start the weekend right with some after school gaming! 

Bring your own or choose from our library of board, card, role playing, or Wii video games. 

Spend time with your family and enjoy your favorite board games, toys and crafts.

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.

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.

Are you in Grades 6-8 and need service hours for school? Club members should plan to attend the monthly meetings and assist with at least one additional program per month. A club agreement can be picked up at your first meeting.

A different project every week!

Call or visit to find out what it is this week!

Ages 6+.

Hola! Join us for an evening of learning intermediate Spanish grammar and vocabulary and practicing conversational skills.

A club for kids who love reading, writing, and nature! Weekly sessions using nature as inspiration.

For ages 7 and up.

This series of programs has been cancelled. 

No further information is available.

Tweens are invited to watch a movie in the Teen Center.

You made it! Celebrate the close of National Novel Writing Month with us! Join your fellow writers and reward yourself for a job well done. 

December focus: Intro to 3D printing with 3Doodler Start and Tinkercad (website).

Focus on a different technology each month.

Learn skills for coding, 3D design, robotics and more!

Having trouble with your device? Need help syncing your eBooks? Come see Luis, our in-house tech expert! See the Reference Desk for more information.

First Mondays of the Month, September - December from 5 - 6 p.m.

Mondays, Jan. 7th through April 8th from 5 - 6 p.m.

Hosted by teen interns with the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium! The Marine Science Club is designed to educate children about marine life and conservation through fun games and activities.

Come and enjoy free movies on our big screen. Contact the library for movie titles.

ASAP is a group coming together to fill the need for a FREE social play group for kids on the Autism Spectrum. We will have games, toys, music, singing, dancing, puzzles, Legos and more! Ages 5-11 come from 5:15-6:15 pm.

Practice speaking English! Please call 941-955-0421 to register as an ESOL learner with the Literacy Council of Sarasota.

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

Because who doesn't love to watch and make fun of a terrible movie with friends? Snacks, crazy crafts, prizes, and whoopee cushions will be provided!

Recommended for grades 6-12.

Learn how to positively train your dog!  Bess Walmsley, a Certified Suncoast Humane Society Obedience Instructor, will teach you how to teach your dog.  Walmsley only uses positive reinforcement to strengthen training goals and reduce yo

Pioneer Days Meeting.

Discover STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) in this workshop series for youth ages 8 and up! Topics include coding, robotics, engineering and architecture, 3D design and more.

Drop-in arts and crafts with a splash of science! All programs are free and recommended for ages 6 and  up. Children under 8 years old may require parent or caregiver assistance at some programs.

So you wrote your novel, now what? Brenda Spalding shares techniques and strategies for marketing yourself and networking with social media.

Build a custom ornament, or design an object to place in a snow globe during DIY time on Saturday, December 15 in the Youth Program Room.

ASAP is a group coming together to fill the need for a FREE social play group for kids on the Autism Spectrum. We will have games, toys, music, singing, dancing, puzzles, Legos and more! Ages 12 - 20 come from 6:30-7:30 pm.

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

We will be reading and discussing "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry" by Rachel Joyce.