The Elsie Quirk Library is pleased to share that the Sarasota County One Book for 2022 is “The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind” by William Kamkwambe. This is a compelling account of Kamkwambe’s determination, perseverance, and ingenuity in his efforts to improve conditions for his family and community. This year’s selection is also available in a teen version and a picture book version, making it accessible for readers of all ages. While the book touches on many themes and evokes a full range of emotions, the central lesson of the story is: Libraries can save the world! You’ll have to read the book to find out if you agree…and if any doubt is left in your mind, you are invited to attend a One Book author talk and ask Kamkwambe himself. The One Book author talks will be held on February 17 and 18 and are free to the public. For more information, go to: www.scgov.net/government/libraries/one-book-sarasota.
Selecting a One Book One Community title each year is both difficult and exciting. Many powerful, intriguing, informative, and consequential books are considered by the committee. We encourage you to come into the Elsie Quirk Library and check out our display of books that were considered, and are well worth the read. These titles represent a broad spectrum
Finally, back to the theme of libraries as the best thing ever. If, like William Kamkwambe, you are looking for resources to innovate, elevate, electrify, or hydrate, the Elsie Quirk Library is the place to start. We offer fee-free learning, enthusiastic helpfulness, positive community connection, and even cheerleading for your endeavors if that’s what is needed. We look forward to seeing you in the library, we are happy to help you over the phone, and we are proud to be there for you online.
A Sampling of Elsie Quirk Library Events, Opportunities, and Resources to Explore:
In-Person Programs
- Monday, January 24, 10:15 a.m. or noon
Forty Carrots
For children who are mobile up to 5 years old. Uninterrupted play time with your child with the Partners in Play group. Friendly Parenting Educators show how play and learning go together!
- Monday, January 24, 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.
Great Decisions
Foreign Policy Association discussion group on world affairs. All are welcome.
- Tuesday, January 25, 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Englewood Camera Club Meeting
Join the Englewood Camera Club to share photography. For more information: www.englewoodcameraclub.com
- Wednesday, January 26, 10:15 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Englewood Genealogical Society Meeting
Monthly meeting topics are designed to meet the research needs of members and guests. All are welcome.
- Wednesday, January 26, 2 – 6 p.m.
Board Game Night
Bring a friend or find a friend for some classic fun! Games for all ages and interests are available to play throughout the library.
- Thursday, January 27, 10:30 a.m.
Outdoor STEM Storytime
For ages 0-5. Join us for storytime in the Golden Reading Garden! Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that feature stories and STEM activities.
- Thursday, January 27, 1 – 3 p.m.
Quirky Knitters
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, just come on in to knit and chat!
- Friday, January 28, 10:30 a.m. – Noon
Basic Conversational Spanish for Beginners
Come and learn basic conversational Spanish with instructor Dan Duffy. This class is for persons who know little or no Spanish.
- Friday, January 28, 2 – 3 p.m.
Spanish Reading Group
Already took the Basic Conversational Spanish class? Graduate to this class which focusses on Spanish stories, translation, pronunciation and grammar. Open to anyone who speaks basic Spanish.
Community Support
- Job Seekers Kits
A purple folder packed with helpful tips, resources, and tools for job seekers, available at our community resource table.
- Care Kits
Reusable sinch bags with useful everyday items for those in need, such as personal hygiene supplies, sox, first aid supplies, and Kind Bars, available by asking any library staff member.
- Snack Bags
Full of popular snacks for children and teens 18 and under, available in the youth department. - Virtual Programs
Sign up or learn more at: scgovlibrary.librarymarket.com/events
- Alphabet Storytime
Online storytime for kids, enjoy Elsie Quirk’s own Cris and George reading books with their favorite letters, and discover new library friends from other branches.
- Tech Help by Zoom
Need help with your new phone? Can’t figure out how to get e-books on your iPad? Want to find out how to make Word stop putting spaces where you don’t want them? Set up a tech by Zoom appointment with an Elsie Quirk staff member by registering online or giving us a call. We are also happy to talk you through setting up a Zoom account over the phone.
- Dungeons and Dragons
Ages 14 and up. Join us online for the classic role-playing game and make new friends, every Thursday from 4 to 7pm! Requires the use of Zoom and the Roll20.net gaming platform—for help with either, contact the library.
