At this time of year, many traditions focus on gratitude, and here at the Elsie Quirk Library that is an easy thing to do. As Aesop, of fable fame, said, “Gratitude is the sign of noble souls.” I cannot claim that my soul has reached nobility status, but I do find myself quite full of gratitude.
I am grateful for the community that it is our privilege to provide library services to. For the many and varied patrons who we have the opportunity to converse with, to learn from, to find resources for, to think and create with, and sometimes even to laugh and cry alongside.
I am profoundly grateful for the remarkable library staff, who have worked exceptionally hard—and with so much heart, skill, and stamina—throughout the pandemic, to provide information, entertainment, inspiration, and care for all of our patrons. It is a pleasure and an honor to work alongside Michele, Jill, Cris, Amy, George, Marcus, and Nikki, who make the Elsie Quirk Library what it is.
Finally, I am grateful for all of the organizations that meet at, or partner with, the Elsie Quirk Library. The Quirky Knitters who bring joy through our doors along with their knitting bags; On the Spot who have brought us together with other community nonprofits to serve our patrons more broadly; the Suncoast Writer’s Guild who keep our Local Author section well stocked; 40 Carrots who bring delight to children and their adults with the Partners in Play program; and so many others who make our library a lively crossroads for an active and engaged community.
If you also are feeling the spirit of gratitude, and are looking for creative ways to express it, the Sarasota County Library System is here for you! Check out our selection of craft books, or explore our Creativebug app, to make a gift of appreciation for the people in your life. Peruse our cookbook collection, or pickup a Quirky Spice to-go bag, and serve up a sumptuous a thank you meal for your friends and neighbors. Discover Hoopla and use your library card to stream a heartwarming movie, or some favorite music, to share with those who enrich your life.
A Sampling of Elsie Quirk Library Events, Opportunities, and Resources to Explore:
In-Person Programs
- Mondays 10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. and Noon – 1 p.m.
Forty Carrots Partners in Play
For children, up to age 5 with a parent or caregiver.A free class for you and your child to enjoy together. Experience new educational activities, join in circle-time fun, meet other families and receive valuable parenting and child development information. - Thursday, November 18, 10:30-11:30
Storytime in the Golden Reading Garden
For ages 0-5. Join us for outdoor storytime in the Golden Garden. Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that feature stories, music and movement, and crafts. - Thursday, November 18, 1-3 p.m.
Quirky Knitters
Join the Quirky Knitters for an afternoon of knitting and crochet. Bring your projects, patterns, and questions, all skill levels welcome. Registration is not required, just show up to knit and chat!
To-Go Programs
Take-home bags full of amusement.
- “Feelin’ Cozy” Teen Destressing Kit
Available in the teen section.
- Pudding Cup Turkey Craft
Available at the youth desk.
- Meditative Rock Painting Kit
Available in the adult section.
- Quirky Spice Sampler Bag
For adults, teens, and families! For a kit, follow your nose…or ask at the desk.
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 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.
