OUR MISSION
We champion strong public libraries, support innovation and help to extend the library systemโs reach for everyone in Sarasota County.
Who We Are
The Library Foundation for Sarasota County was established in the belief that great communities deserve great libraries.
Founded in 2011, the Foundation is a non-profit organization that raises private donations to supplement county tax support to keep our libraries strong, innovative and accessible to all.
We work closely with the Sarasota County Library System, the countyโs Library Advisory Board and with the various Friendsโ organizations at each library branch. We focus on ways to enhance the library system for everyone in Sarasota.
What We Do
The mission of the Library Foundation for Sarasota County is to champion strong public libraries, support innovation and help to extend the library systemโs reach for everyone in Sarasota County.
We envision a well-loved and well supported Sarasota County Library System that is accessible to everyone, with resources and innovative programs to meet the evolving needs of our community.
Our History
Library supporters in Sarasota County dreamed of creating a library foundation for many years.
Our efforts date back to 2004, when the idea of a library foundation was seriously discussed in a series of workshops attended by leaders in the library system and in the community.
In 2009, the Sarasota County Library Advisory Board advocated their support for developing a system-wide library foundation.
Soon after, planning for the foundation began in earnest. In consultation with local foundations, elected officials, library leaders and community philanthropists, the foundation became a reality.
One by one, board membership grew, as did the enthusiasm and commitment to create a truly extraordinary foundation.
After nearly 8 years, the dream of developing a way to secure the future of our libraries was realized. We held our first official meeting as the Library Foundation for Sarasota County on April 4, 2011.
Meet Our Board
You canโt judge a book by its cover, but you can tell a lot about a foundation by the people who serve on its board. Our diverse group of community and business leaders have a shared passion for making Sarasota Countyโs libraries extraordinary.
