Summer adventures await in Sarasota County's libraries
This article was originally featured on the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Click here to view the full story.
Passionate readers know the transformative role books and literature have played in their lives. From better educational outcomes to career achievement, increased earning potential to improved health and well-being, strong readers achieve lifelong benefits.
People need support to become strong readers, though, particularly children. Students who struggle with reading often experience frustration learning other subjects and are less likely to graduate from high school. This is especially concerning now, as recent research shows that the average reading score for fourth graders in the U.S. is at its lowest point in 20 years.
Sarasota County’s thriving public library system makes books and reading accessible to all residents, including our youngest, throughout the year. But our libraries play an especially critical role in keeping children reading and learning during the summer months when school is out.
"Summer Learning" is the focus of the Sarasota County library system for the next three months. Each of our 10 branch libraries will host special events, workshops and performances to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to learn new skills, experience the arts, experiment with technology, stay engaged with education and have some fun.
Last year more than 24,000 community members participated in the libraries’ summer learning programs.
Along with our many fun and educational programs designed to keep children engaged and reduce summer learning loss, we have early literacy development for preschool children and exciting art, science and technology-based programs for older children and teens.
The library also has plenty of learning opportunities for adults who want to keep expanding their minds, from studio art classes to wellness workshops.
This fantastic array of programs is made possible through our collaboration with the Library Foundation for Sarasota County, which works to strengthen and expand library services. Together we are ensuring that all library branches have equal access to enriching and entertaining summer programs for everyone in our community.
We hope you’ll join us at our libraries this summer to discover exciting stories, explore technology, learn a craft, borrow great books and meet new friends. Countless adventures await!
Dr. Renee DiPilato is the director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources. Alisa Mitchell is the executive director of the Library Foundation for Sarasota County.
Sarasota County Libraries is a system comprised of 10 community branches, a history center and a mobile library that provide opportunities for lifelong learning, vibrant cultural life and enrichment activities for all ages.
Visit sarasotacountylibraries.org for more information on our Summer Learning initiative and to view a full calendar of events.
The Library Foundation for Sarasota County supports, educates and advocates for strong public libraries in Sarasota County. To learn more, visit SarasotaLibraryFoundation.org.