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Welcome to our new Director!
On October 1, Renée Di Pilato became the new Director of Library Services and Historical Resources for Sarasota County. 
Renée most recently served as Deputy Director of Alexandria (VA) Public Libraries. She earned a BA in History and Urban Planning at Old Dominion University and worked in the summer in her hometown library in Virginia Beach. She received two master’s degrees, from Catholic University in Library Science and from George Mason University in Public Administration, and went on to earn a doctorate in Leadership Studies from Simmons College. Personable, humble and sincere, Renée continues to teach one online course at the University of Southern California and still finds time for husband Andy, her beloved pups and a good book.
We have loved getting to know Renée and can’t wait for you to meet her!
Explore Your World Activity Backpacks now available for checkout
The Explore Your World Activity Backpack was designed in partnership with UF/ IFAS Extension to encourage users to observe, interact, and learn from their natural environment. The Kits check out for 3 weeks and are designed for families with children, but any age can benefit from the experience!
The Kits contain: Binoculars, Magnifying Glass, Underwater Observation Boat, Compass, Night Sky Planisphere, Field Guides, and an instructional guide to help develop your exploration skills. Ask about them at the library and Check it Out!
 
Explora
Let your research take flight with Explora™, the place to find information on thousands of topics covering a wide range of subjects. You’ll find magazine articles, book chapters, biographies, primary source documents, images, videos and more.
 
EBSCOhost Masterfile 
Search and view full text eBooks, browse historic and contemporary dissertations and theses, access more than 2000 full text publications as far back as 1922 and more than 502,000 photos, maps and flags.  Topics include biography, history, careers, cooking, literature, genealogy, health, parenting, personal finance, politics, architecture, science, current events, social-emotional health, sports, and travel. 
 
Get a Library Card!
No more late fees!
Sarasota County Libraries is officially fine free.  What does that mean?  Any materials checked out from the library will not accrue overdue fines if returned to the library undamaged.  Why? 
Library experts have found that charging overdue fines inhibits access to library materials and services. Studies indicate that even modest penalties deter people from registering for a library card or using the library because of the risk of incurring fines. Rather than motivating borrowers to return items on time, fines act as an inequitable barrier to service, disproportionately impacting minors, students and community members with limited financial resources. 
For more answers to your questions, visit our website.
 
The North Port Public Library is closed until January 5th. 
The Selby Public Library will be closed from December 15th through January 5th.
Please visit another location for library services during this period.
 

Sarasota County Libraries & Historical Resources

scgov.net/library