15th anniversary of Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota County Library to be observed on Saturday, Oct. 12

Festivities will include the sharing of stories about Johnson and Ed James II, along with games and snacks

The Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota County Library is located on Newtown Boulevard. Image courtesy Sarasota County

The public is invited to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library on Saturday, Oct. 12, Sarasota County staff has announced.

The event will start at 9:30 a.m. with remarks from local leaders, “followed by games, snacks and other free, family-fun activities,” a news release says.

Further, the day’s festivities will feature speakers “sharing stories about the lives and impacts of Johnson,” after whom the Sarasota County Commission renamed the library in April, “and Dr. Edward James II, whose name adorns the library’s meeting room,” the release adds.

Speakers will share their stories from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1 to 2 p.m., the release notes.

Additionally, the African American Cultural Resource Center will host tours, starting at 2 p.m., the release adds.

“It’s an honor to be able celebrate not only this library, but the tireless advocacy of two community icons,” said Renee Di Pilato, director of the Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Department. “Renaming the library after Ms. Johnson is a tribute to her nearly 40 years of public service and advocacy, and the meeting room reflects Dr. James’ steadfast dedication to the community,” Di Pilato pointed out in the release.

The event will conclude at 3 p.m., the release says.

The Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library is located at 2801 Newtown Blvd. in Sarasota.

For more information, call the county Contact Center at 861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net.