As I write this column, I am sitting in my office in the corner of the Elsie Quirk Library trying to think fiery thoughts to warm my hands up after being out in this impossibly cold weather we’re having. That effort led me to contemplate a recent conversation I witnessed at the Sarasota County Historical Resources building. An enthusiastic staff member there was expounding on the remarkable women in Sarasota County’s history. With great admiration and humor, she talked about the rebelliousness, determination, wile, and generosity of spirit that these women employed to build the kind of community they envisioned living in. This conversation included our own Elsie Quirk, as well as other well-known and lesser-known local historical figures. If you are intrigued about local history, whether it’s the legacy of strong-willed women, the history of your neighborhood, or the significance of specific landmarks, give Historical Resources a call and they will answer questions, point you in the right direction, suggest resources, and quite possibly provide you with a little entertainment — or at least a good conversation starter for your next dinner party.
If you’re looking for more things to do indoors until this arctic chill passes…check out a book to crawl under a duvet with; use your library card to stream free movies on Hoopla and have a couch-based movie night; sit yourself down in a comfy library chair and read a stack of magazines from our periodical section; or check out the varied and exciting upcoming programs at your Elsie Quirk Library.
Friday
- Basic Conversational Spanish Class 11:30 a.m.
This is a beginner’s class, for developing basic communication skills. - Rise Up Film Festival 2 p.m.
Friday’s matinee is a drama based on true events, with surprising humor, directed by Spike Lee. - Spanish Reading Group at 3 p.m.
This class is for those who have taken the beginner’s class, as well as any others who can read/speak basic Spanish. To attend, please contact Señor Dan by email at spanishfaculty@gmail.com
Saturday
- Rise Up Film Festival: Short Films at 2 p.m.
Saturday’s matinee is a series of short films, followed by discussion.
Monday
- Forty Carrots Partners in Play 11:45 a.m. OR 14:45 p.m.
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. Attendance is limited to 12 families per session. - Great Decisions Discussion Group 10:15 a.m. – Noon
Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs. The Great Decisions program highlights eight of the most thought-provoking foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. 2020 Great Decisions books will be in the Friend’s of Elsie Quirk Library Bookstore for purchase. All are welcome. - Monday Night Movies 5 p.m.
This week’s movie is a critically acclaimed depiction of the true story of a trailblazing activist and elected official, starring Sean Penn. - English for Spanish Speakers – Gratis Clase de Ingles para Hispanohablantes 5 p.m.
This class is for Spanish speakers, who want to improve their English skills in speaking, and understanding English, with emphasis on correct pronunciation. Students must be able to speak some basic English. Class meets once a week, Monday evenings.
Tuesday
- Master Gardener Plant Clinic 10 a.m. – Noon. Stop in to get free answers to your Florida gardening and landscape questions. This is made possible through a partnership with UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County.
- Florida Friendly Landscaping 101 10:30 a.m.
- Englewood Camera Club 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
- How to Download eBooks 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Learn how to download eBooks using the Libby, Cloud Library and Hoopla apps. Bring your eBook reading device and your Sarasota County or Charlotte County Library card. Kindle users will need their Amazon login information.
- Night Photography 4 – 4:45 p.m. Presented by the Englewood Camera Club.
Wednesday
- French Conversation Group 10 a.m.
Thursday
- Family Storytime at 10:30 a.m. For ages 0-5. Interact and participate with your child in a variety of early literacy activities that include music, stories, movement, crafts and school readiness activities.
- Baila Miller – Greek Myths 2 p.m. Baila Miller’s fine arts programs are high quality multimedia presentations that explore the role of art, architecture, cinema and photography as well as orchestral and operatic influences in the development of modern culture. Seating is limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis, beginning at 1:45.
- Quirky Knitters meet at 1 p.m.
For more information on library programs, services, and resources visit us at 100 West Dearborn Street, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000, or visit our website at scgov.net.
