Let's Pretend Day

Children ages 2-8 and their caregivers are invited for Wednesday morning free-play time, with an assortment of toys and props to inspire the young imagination! Drop-in anytime between 10:30am and 11:30am.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

AARP Tax-Aide

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free assistance for federal returns at Elsie Quirk Library.IRS-certified Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the library on Mondays and Wednesdays 10:30a.m. - 2:30p.m. beginning February 4, 2026.Taxes will be prepared by appointment only. Appo......More

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free assistance for federal returns at Elsie Quirk Library.IRS-certified Tax-Aide volunteers will be at the library on Mondays and Wednesdays 10:30a.m. - 2:30p.m. beginning February 4, 2026.Taxes will be prepared by appointment only. Appointments must be made in person at Elsie Quirk Library.  The self-service appointment book and in-take forms are located at the front desk. Appointments cannot be made by telephone.Membership in AARP is not required. This program is offered through a partnership with AARP. For more information please contact [email protected] or 941-841-9587.What to bring:Government-issued photo ID for each taxpayerSocial Security card (or SSA 1099) for each individual listed on the returnChecking or savings account information for direct deposit or direct-debit purposesW-2 forms for each employer1099 forms including 1099-G, SSA-1099, RRB-1099 Tier 1, 1099-INT, 1099-DIV, 1099-B, 1099-R, 1099-MISC, 1099-K

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Heart Lab

Join us for a special STEAM activity on the first Wednesday of every month!We will learn all about the heart and cardiovascular system during our February session!Recommended for ages 5-9.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Great Books Discussion Group

The Great Books Discussion Group meets the 1st Thursday of each month from January through March and is moderated by Ross Ament. Reading selections will be from the Great Books Foundation's Great Conversations 1. A copy of the Great Conversations books are available at ......More

The Great Books Discussion Group meets the 1st Thursday of each month from January through March and is moderated by Ross Ament. Reading selections will be from the Great Books Foundation's Great Conversations 1. A copy of the Great Conversations books are available at the Reference desk at Elsie Quirk Library. New members are always welcome!The reading selections are as follows:Jan 8, 2026--“Secret Sharer” by Joseph ConradFeb. 5--“Theory of the Leisure Class” by T. VeblenMarch 5--“Stages of Life” by Carl Jung

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Story Time

For ages 2-5. Join us for story time filled with a variety of early literacy activities that include music, stories, movement, crafts and school readiness.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Quirky Knitters

Bring your projects, patterns, and questions to Elsie Quirk Library and join the Quirky Knitters for an afternoon of knitting and crochet.  All skill levels welcome.  Registration is not required, so come on in to knit and chat!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Unleashing Imagination: Art Media - Week 4

Join us for an unforgettable art class that uses hands-on techniques alongside art history, while fostering self-expression, innovation and creativity. Try out a variety of art styles across six sessions!Janessa Tamsett has passionately dedicated the past 25 years to cr......More

Join us for an unforgettable art class that uses hands-on techniques alongside art history, while fostering self-expression, innovation and creativity. Try out a variety of art styles across six sessions!Janessa Tamsett has passionately dedicated the past 25 years to creating and teaching art within the local community. Additionally, Janessa has developed instructor-led workshops for schools and community programs. This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Fun to Be Fit Kids

Fun To Be Fit Kids is a music and movement program for children and their caregivers to attend together. Classes are designed for children and their caregiver(s) to spend quality time together singing, dancing, getting some exercise and having fun!  For children ages 0-......More

Fun To Be Fit Kids is a music and movement program for children and their caregivers to attend together. Classes are designed for children and their caregiver(s) to spend quality time together singing, dancing, getting some exercise and having fun!  For children ages 0-5 with a caregiver.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Guitar Groove: A Fun 6-week Beginner Guitar Course, Week 4

Ready to rock? Join us for a fun and family-friendly 6-week guitar class designated for complete beginners! Learn to play some of your favorite songs while making music and memories. Registration is required and limited to 10 kids, ages 10-18.  Participants should regis......More

Ready to rock? Join us for a fun and family-friendly 6-week guitar class designated for complete beginners! Learn to play some of your favorite songs while making music and memories. Registration is required and limited to 10 kids, ages 10-18.  Participants should register for the first session on January 17 and are encouraged to attend all 6 sessions.Guitars are available to borrow -- please email Kears at [email protected] ahead of time to reserve one. A parent or adult must attend the first session to provide ID and complete a permission slip for guitar loans. Parents and mentors are welcome to stay and join the fun!Meet our instructor, Paul Quinn:Paul comes from a musical family and plays in a local band. He loves teaching people how to play guitar and have fun making music.This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts. Join us and let's make music and memories together!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Guitar Groove Level 2: The Next Step Week 4

Already know a few chords? Let's take your guitar skills to the next level! In this fun, family-friendly 6-week class, you'll learn to play your favorite songs, learn more chords and move forward with guitar techniques.Registration is required and limited to 10 kids age......More

Already know a few chords? Let's take your guitar skills to the next level! In this fun, family-friendly 6-week class, you'll learn to play your favorite songs, learn more chords and move forward with guitar techniques.Registration is required and limited to 10 kids ages 10-18. Participants should register for the first Level 2 session on January 17 and are encouraged to attend all 6 sessions.Need to borrow a guitar? We've got you covered! Just please Kears at [email protected] ahead of time to reserve one. A parent or guardian must attend the first session to provide ID and complete a permission slip for guitar loans. Parents and mentors are welcome to stick around and jam with us!Meet your instructor, Paul Quinn. Paul comes from a musical family and plays in a local band. He loves teaching people how to play guitar and have fun making music.This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts. Join us and let's make music and memories together!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Forty Carrots: Partners in Play®

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups. Meet our Friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots can help you enhance your parenting skills even more. Hands-on developmenta......More

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups. Meet our Friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots can help you enhance your parenting skills even more. Hands-on developmental age appropriate activities, circle time fun, make new friends and valuable parenting information. For babies to 5 years old. Offered by Forty Carrots Family Center. Class is limited to 12 families. Come to the youth services desk to sign up the day of the session.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: The Lives of Rose Huddleston Tate and May Wetherall

Join Betty Nugent from the Englewood Museum to learn about these long-time residents who made a big difference in their community through their activity in the Lemon Bay Women’s Club. Find out how Mae Wetherall worked to improve the lives of Englewood children, and abou......More

Join Betty Nugent from the Englewood Museum to learn about these long-time residents who made a big difference in their community through their activity in the Lemon Bay Women’s Club. Find out how Mae Wetherall worked to improve the lives of Englewood children, and about Rose Tate’s experience as a mother during World War II. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Forty Carrots: Partners in Play®

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups. Meet our Friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots can help you enhance your parenting skills even more. Hands-on developmenta......More

Enjoy special uninterrupted play time with your child in our drop-in FREE Partners In Play® (PIP) parenting education groups. Meet our Friendly Parenting Educators and discover how Forty Carrots can help you enhance your parenting skills even more. Hands-on developmental age appropriate activities, circle time fun, make new friends and valuable parenting information. For babies to 5 years old. Offered by Forty Carrots Family Center. Class is limited to 12 families. Come to the youth services desk to sign up the day of the session.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: American Roots Music Roadshow

Lisa Brande and Mark Trichka of Vermont have been strummin' and singing together professionally for 30 years, and when they bring their travelling American Roots Music Roadshow to their audiences, they also bring along a wagon full of knowledge to share about the styles......More

Lisa Brande and Mark Trichka of Vermont have been strummin' and singing together professionally for 30 years, and when they bring their travelling American Roots Music Roadshow to their audiences, they also bring along a wagon full of knowledge to share about the styles they present. It's an upbeat program featuring Bluegrass, Old-time, Country, Cajun, and Zydeco played on the fiddle, mandolin, guitar and of course plenty of singing!Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Read with the Dogs

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Playdate Harmonies with Jill Brown

Come sing, play and explore to live music! Kids and caregivers engage in familiar songs while enjoying a sensory experience.For children ages 1-5.  Sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: The Little Town that Unity Built

Join Martha Bireda as she brings Queen Andrews, an African-American pioneer, to life, while exploring the five factors that made Punta Gorda a model for interracial unity in the Jim Crow era of the early 1960s. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest......More

Join Martha Bireda as she brings Queen Andrews, an African-American pioneer, to life, while exploring the five factors that made Punta Gorda a model for interracial unity in the Jim Crow era of the early 1960s. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Tech Navigator

Stumped by technology? Your technology questions can be answered through an in-person or distance appointment with one of our Tech Navigators. Tech Navigators are library staff members ready to assist you with technology skills.Tech Navigator service is one-on-one so we......More

Stumped by technology? Your technology questions can be answered through an in-person or distance appointment with one of our Tech Navigators. Tech Navigators are library staff members ready to assist you with technology skills.Tech Navigator service is one-on-one so we can focus on your specific needs. Questions can be about devices, apps, Internet use, eBooks, digital library services, etc. To sign-up for tech assistance please click here and we will contact you to schedule a session with you in-person. 30-minute sessions will be scheduled between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.All questions are welcome!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Focus on Creativity: Creative Dramatics - Week 3

"For every action there is a reaction" isn't just a saying in this class! Learn how to react confidently to whatever life throws at you on and off the stage! Play theatre games and explore improv while learning about the actor's "instruments": the voice, body, mind, and......More

"For every action there is a reaction" isn't just a saying in this class! Learn how to react confidently to whatever life throws at you on and off the stage! Play theatre games and explore improv while learning about the actor's "instruments": the voice, body, mind, and imagination. Instructor 'Ce Schafler, has extensive experience working with children and in youth drama education having been an English & Acting Teacher, Child Advocate, Match Support Specialist for Big Brothers/Big Sisters, and a Children's Theatre & Performing Arts Director. Registration is required for the first class and limited to 10 tweens ages 9-12.  This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest Quirky Crafters: Time Capsule Making

Define the present for the future with a time capsule! Fill it with your most important memories, a playlist of your favorite songs, or anything else that you want the world to remember.Sponsored by the Friends of the Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Let's Pretend Day

Children ages 2-8 and their caregivers are invited for Wednesday morning free-play time, with an assortment of toys and props to inspire the young imagination! Drop-in anytime between 10:30am and 11:30am.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: Englewood Then and Now

Join Nancy and Esther of the Lemon Bay Historical Society for an eye-opening journey comparing Englewood’s past and present as they share photos from South Venice to Boca Grande. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the F......More

Join Nancy and Esther of the Lemon Bay Historical Society for an eye-opening journey comparing Englewood’s past and present as they share photos from South Venice to Boca Grande. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Green Living: Tips to Becoming More Sustainable

There are many opportunities for becoming more sustainable in the way we live our lives, but where should you start? This class will introduce ideas in the categories of energy, water, waste, transportation and food, help you prioritize what will work best for you and c......More

There are many opportunities for becoming more sustainable in the way we live our lives, but where should you start? This class will introduce ideas in the categories of energy, water, waste, transportation and food, help you prioritize what will work best for you and connect you with resources available in the community to get you started.Please register for this event ONLY at Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/green-living-tips-for-becoming-more-sustainable-registration-1936966271259. For questions or further information, please call 941-861-5000 or email [email protected]. If you require special accommodations to attend one of our events, please contact us in advance at 941-861-5000 or [email protected].

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: Open Chomp Saw Lab

In this open lab, patrons will have access to use Chomp Saws a safe, easy-to-use cutting device to make lemons, lemon trees, or whatever they can imagine! Recommended for ages 5 to 9. Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: Archaeology of the Manasota Key Offshore Site

Join Sarasota County’s archaeologist, Clay Bush, for a lecture on this globally significant site located only 350 yards off of Manasota Key that reveals insights into the lives of the Archaic Florida peoples. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest p......More

Join Sarasota County’s archaeologist, Clay Bush, for a lecture on this globally significant site located only 350 yards off of Manasota Key that reveals insights into the lives of the Archaic Florida peoples. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Quirky Knitters

Bring your projects, patterns, and questions to Elsie Quirk Library and join the Quirky Knitters for an afternoon of knitting and crochet.  All skill levels welcome.  Registration is not required, so come on in to knit and chat!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: Squeeze and Create! Lemon Art Lab

When life gives you lemons, make some art! Learn how to make lemon prints on fabric, and then use the juice to add an acidic pop of color to a watercolor painting. Recommended for ages 9 to adult. Registration is required. One name per registration, please. Lemon Bay Fe......More

When life gives you lemons, make some art! Learn how to make lemon prints on fabric, and then use the juice to add an acidic pop of color to a watercolor painting. Recommended for ages 9 to adult. Registration is required. One name per registration, please. Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.This program will start promptly at 3:30 p.m. Please ensure that you are on time. We will begin to let waitlisted people into the class immediately after the start time, and you may lose your spot if you are late. Please cancel your registration if you cannot make it so that others may join. We appreciate your consideration!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Unleashing Imagination: Art Media - Week 5

Join us for an unforgettable art class that uses hands-on techniques alongside art history, while fostering self-expression, innovation and creativity. Try out a variety of art styles across six sessions!Janessa Tamsett has passionately dedicated the past 25 years to cr......More

Join us for an unforgettable art class that uses hands-on techniques alongside art history, while fostering self-expression, innovation and creativity. Try out a variety of art styles across six sessions!Janessa Tamsett has passionately dedicated the past 25 years to creating and teaching art within the local community. Additionally, Janessa has developed instructor-led workshops for schools and community programs. This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest: Seashells 101

Discover an enthusiasm for shells and the local environment with the Englewood Shell Club. Shells from the Club's collection will be on display as members share an overview of local shells and best conservation practices on the beach.Seating is limited. First come, firs......More

Discover an enthusiasm for shells and the local environment with the Englewood Shell Club. Shells from the Club's collection will be on display as members share an overview of local shells and best conservation practices on the beach.Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Lemon Bay Fest Movies: “Patrick Smith’s Florida” and “Cracker”

Join us in wrapping up Lemon Bay Fest with a double movie feature and light refreshments. These films highlight the importance of preserving Florida’s unique past, showcasing the lives of those who embody its "Florida Cracker" heritage. There will be a brief intermissio......More

Join us in wrapping up Lemon Bay Fest with a double movie feature and light refreshments. These films highlight the importance of preserving Florida’s unique past, showcasing the lives of those who embody its "Florida Cracker" heritage. There will be a brief intermission between films. "Patrick Smith's Florida" In this film, Patrick Smith, Pulitzer Prize nominated writer, takes the audience off the tourist path to learn about a "Florida Cracker" heritage upon which his novel, "A Land Remembered" is based. He provides a sample of Florida in the 1930's and shares a rare glimpse into the mind of a writer whose work preserves Florida as it once was and will never be again."Cracker"  For more than 250 years, cowboys have ridden the plains of central Florida. This film captures the beauty of the old ways with the drama of encroaching civilization. Included in this film are interviews with ranchers across Florida. Seating is limited. First come, first seated.Lemon Bay Fest programs are sponsored by the Friends of Elsie Quirk Library.

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Guitar Groove: A Fun 6-week Beginner Guitar Course, Week 5

Ready to rock? Join us for a fun and family-friendly 6-week guitar class designated for complete beginners! Learn to play some of your favorite songs while making music and memories. Registration is required and limited to 10 kids, ages 10-18.  Participants should regis......More

Ready to rock? Join us for a fun and family-friendly 6-week guitar class designated for complete beginners! Learn to play some of your favorite songs while making music and memories. Registration is required and limited to 10 kids, ages 10-18.  Participants should register for the first session on January 17 and are encouraged to attend all 6 sessions.Guitars are available to borrow -- please email Kears at [email protected] ahead of time to reserve one. A parent or adult must attend the first session to provide ID and complete a permission slip for guitar loans. Parents and mentors are welcome to stay and join the fun!Meet our instructor, Paul Quinn:Paul comes from a musical family and plays in a local band. He loves teaching people how to play guitar and have fun making music.This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts. Join us and let's make music and memories together!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US

Guitar Groove Level 2: The Next Step Week 5

Already know a few chords? Let's take your guitar skills to the next level! In this fun, family-friendly 6-week class, you'll learn to play your favorite songs, learn more chords and move forward with guitar techniques.Registration is required and limited to 10 kids age......More

Already know a few chords? Let's take your guitar skills to the next level! In this fun, family-friendly 6-week class, you'll learn to play your favorite songs, learn more chords and move forward with guitar techniques.Registration is required and limited to 10 kids ages 10-18. Participants should register for the first Level 2 session on January 17 and are encouraged to attend all 6 sessions.Need to borrow a guitar? We've got you covered! Just please Kears at [email protected] ahead of time to reserve one. A parent or guardian must attend the first session to provide ID and complete a permission slip for guitar loans. Parents and mentors are welcome to stick around and jam with us!Meet your instructor, Paul Quinn. Paul comes from a musical family and plays in a local band. He loves teaching people how to play guitar and have fun making music.This program is provided through a partnership with Englewood Creative Arts. Join us and let's make music and memories together!

100 W. Dearborn Street, Englewood, FL, 34223, US