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.

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

Free unbiased counseling for Medicare from 10:00 a.m. -1:00 p.m.  Then from 1:00-4:00 p.m.

For little ones birth to 30 months and their caregivers.

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.

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.

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.

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

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.

Come join Forty Carrots for a time of sharing and meaningful play.

For mobile babies to 5 years old.

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

Who should attend?

Anyone who has questions about flood risks, zones, insurance regulations and pending map changes: especially residents, professional lenders, insurance agents and realtors.

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.

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

Relax and experience the joy of creation using paper canvases, oil pastels and other materials to create a mini painting to take home or display in the teen center.  This is a self-directed, non-instruction program for all ages, available wee

Enjoy interacting with your child by participating in early literacy activities that include music and movement, books, crafts, and educational activities.

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.

Who should attend:  Anyone who has questions about flood risks, zones, insurance regulations and pending map changes: especially residents, professional lenders, insurance agents and realtors.

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.

After completing the Computer Basics, Part 1, the student is ready to use the skills learned to access software and learn about Toolbars and Ribbons. The basics of file creating and organizing will be demonstrated.

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

Research your family genealogy online through Ancestry and Heritage Quest. Bring along your family names, dates and locations of your ancestors. 

Registration required, limited to 10 participants. 

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.

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

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.

For infants to five years, attending with caregiver. The storytime includes simple stories, nursery rhymes, songs, fingerplays, and crafts. Space is limited to 80 people. Free tickets are available at the youth desk beginning at 10 a.m.

Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that include music, movement, crafts and school readiness activities.

ESOL Conversation Group for intermediate to higher level ESL learners.

Students MUST first be registered with the Literacy Council

Contact:  Sue Bergstrom 941-955-0421

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

Explore sewing skills with some basic projects. Materials will be provided. Ages 11-18.

Registration required as space is limited.

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

Fun To Be Fit Kids is a music and movement program for children and their caregivers to attend together. Classes are designed for children and their caregivers to spend quality time together singing, dancing, getting some exercise and having fun!

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.

This class was cancelled as of 10 a.m. on Tuesday, 10/16/18.

Come create digital art! Wacom tablets allow you to create unique digital artwork with a special tablet, stylist and a laptop!  

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.

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.

Looking for assistance with your smart phone, tablet, or laptop?  Want to learn how to download e-books and audios, browse magazines using Flipster, or figure out that app you've been hearing about?

Drop-in breastfeeding support and education will be offered at no charge by a trained peer counselor from Healthy Start Coalition with the goal of increasing knowledge and awareness for mothers.

We provide the pumpkins and paint, you supply the imagination!

While supplies last for this all ages event

-Submit a digital poster file (PDF) to ningram@scgov.net with subject heading "Poster"

-Your poster will be your rendition of a book cover for one of your favorite books

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.

Experience this holiday first-hand as storyteller Carrie Sue Ayvar weaves magical tales about her childhood in Mexico. Enjoy crafts, activities, and fun for the whole family.

For preschoolers ages 2 1/2 to 5 years and their caregivers.  Join us for a storytime of stories, books, songs, rhymes, and activities specially chosen with preschool children in mind.  Each storytime concludes with a family-fun craft!

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 Forty Carrots for a time of sharing and meaningful play.

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.

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in ou

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

Chess lovers meet and play chess with other chess lovers. All skill levels are welcome.

TBD 

 Learn the basics of using your iPad and iPhone. Class will cover the buttons, navigating and understanding the settings menus/options, connecting to the internet, navigating internet menus (Safari), and basic sharing features.

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.

Loss of friends and family, work, physical ability or a sense of identity ... these realities signal critical life changes, but can also be catalysts for personal growth.

Research your family genealogy online through Ancestry and Heritage Quest. Bring along your family names, dates and locations of your ancestors. 

Registration required, limited to 10 participants. 

Learn tips on how to avoid costly hip fractures from a Sarasota Chiropractor.

Join us each month for our book club! New to the group?

Stop by the Information Services Desk or call 941-861-1360 to find out what book is selected for this month. 

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.

School is out, so come to the library for an afternoon of make and take Fall, Halloween, Dia de los Muertos and Thanksgiving crafts.

Craft materials are provided by the Friends of Gulf Gate Library.

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

Free entry. Win prizes! 

Join the Death Cafe for monthly support and discussions on death the end-of-life. Visit www.deathcafe.com for more information.

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

"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.

CANCELED

Join us to play Book Bingo. Win prizes! Refreshments provided.

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

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.

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.

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

Loose lecture-oriented discussion group for people who are relatively familiar with their Apple devices. Make the most out of your iPhones and iPads!

Get ready for Halloween by carving your own spooky Jack-o'-lantern! Come with a design in mind, or use one of our templates. Pumpkins and carving kits will be provided.

Ages 18 and up.

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.

Come to the library for some Rock Painting fun! Drop in anytime between 2p.m. and 4p.m., and create your own self-guided rock art. Materials will be provided.

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.

Coloring pages, markers, color pencils, and crayons will be provided.

Join talented storyteller Carrie Sue Avyar in a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration with Mexican stories in Spanish and English followed by a craft! Space is limited.

Drop in and play games on PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and Wii. Recommended for ages 11-18.

Special appearances:

September - Dash robot

October - Microscope slide-viewing

Get ready for National Novel Writing Month! Meet fellow local writers, learn about NaNoWriMo, share tips, stories and strategies while enjoying snacks and drinks. Upstairs in the conference room.

Free tabletop gaming event at the library.  

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.

Tuesdays, Aug.

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.

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.

Tweens and teens can register and paint their very own ceramic owl!

*Registration is required as space is limited*

Wednesdays,

Students in grades 4-9, join us for friends, fun, food, and some awesome community service! Drop in between 3 and 4:30 p.m. and stay for an hour or more to make a difference in your world.

Children, tweens, and teens can drop in and learn how to play chess!

Join us the third Wednesday of every month this fall to learn about gardening and the environment. Experience a deeper enjoyment of our library’s Reading Garden through crafts, experiments, interactive activities and more.

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.

Come and enjoy a fun, interactive storytime designed with young children's learning needs in mind!

Every Third Saturday @ 3:00pm !

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 software and sewing machines on your own personal projects.

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.

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.

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

For ages 7 and up.

All teens interested in volunteering at the Jacaranda Library can learn the ropes in this group orientation.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

For ages 11-18.  Join the Teen Advisory Group (T.A.G.) and share ideas for upcoming library programs for teens.