Q. What is Off the Page Literary Celebration?

This nationally recognized event hosted by Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources features bestselling authors, book signings, writing workshops and more with all 10 library locations participating.

“Our goal in creating this event is to highlight literature and writing within Sarasota’s world-class art scene,” said Sarasota County Libraries Director Renée Di Pilato. “We want residents to connect through discovery and discussion related to all things literature, whether it’s through authors, books, scripts, plays or any literary topic they’d like to explore.”

How do I find Off the Page programs?

Many of our programs are available on our website at SarasotaCountyLibraries.org/OffThePage and include a booklist for our featured authors.

To view all Off the Page programs, visit our Library Calendar. If prompted, click Select All and Confirm Selection to view all events.

You may also visit through the Library Events link on SarasotaCountyLibraries.org to view all events. If prompted, click Select All and Confirm Selection to view all events. Then use the filters to select Event Category, click Off the Page Literary Celebration and then Apply.

How much does it cost to attend?

Nothing – all events are FREE to the public.

What is the event schedule?

Many libraries will be hosting additional programs, so be sure to check our library calendar for the most up-to-date schedule of events, including Publishing Day, Family Day and featured authors including Kate Quinn, Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Dalia Colon, Nathaniel Philbrick, Craig Johnson and Robert K. Wittman.

What programs are being held off-site?

We have four programs being held outside of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical resources. They are:

• Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. – National Book Award winner and bestselling historian, author of “Travels with George,” Nathaniel Philbrick at the Riverview Performing Arts Center (RPAC) - 1 Ram Way, Sarasota, FL 34231.
• Friday, Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. - Bestselling author, TV host and historian, author of “The Viper” and “The JFK Conspiracy,” Brad Meltzer at the Venice Performing Arts Center - 1 Indian Ave building 5, Venice, FL 34285.
• Sunday, Nov. 15 at 11 a.m. – Fordham University professor and author of “Her Own Voice: Eight Women Who Rewrote Life and Art” Anne E. Fernald, at Sarasota Museum of Art - 1001 S. Tamiami Trail., Sarasota, FL 34236.
• Thursday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. – Bestselling historical fiction author of “The Alice Network,” “The Rose Code” and “The Astral Library,” Kate Quinn, at Venice Community Center - 326 Nokomis Ave S, Venice, FL 34285.

Do I need to register for Off the Page programs?

Most Off the Page events are first come, first seated. Please view the events on the library calendar for registration details.

Please note that some events during Off the Page: Publishing Day (Sunday, Nov. 1) may require registration. (details and event link coming soon)