County to host ‘Community Conversation’ on future of library services in Venice

Event is set for Feb. 3 at Venice Elementary School

Sarabeth Kalajian, director of Sarasota County libraries and historical resources, talks with Mayor John Holic of Venice during the Jan. 15 Convocation of Governments. Rachel Hackney photo
Sarabeth Kalajian, director of Sarasota County libraries and historical resources, talks with Mayor John Holic of Venice during the Jan. 15 Convocation of Governments. Rachel Hackney photo

Residents are invited to join Sarasota County staff to discuss the future of library services in Venice at an upcoming “Community Conversation,” the county has announced.

The session, which will include a question-and-answer period, will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 3, at Venice Elementary School, located at 150 Miami Ave. E. in Venice, a county news release says. No registration is required.

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Department staff will also host an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, at Frances T. Bourne Jacaranda Public Library, located at 4143 Woodmere Park Blvd. in Venice, the release notes. The Jacaranda facility is the next closest Sarasota County library to the Venice facility, which will mark its last day on Saturday, Jan. 30.

On Jan. 12, the Board of County Commissioners voted to close the Venice Library, based on the recommendation of staff “and out of concern for the well-being” of patrons, employees and volunteers, the release explains. After Jan 30, staffed kiosk service will be available at the adjacent Venice Community Center, the release says.

County staff members are evaluating sites for a temporary facility in Venice as well as exploring options for a permanent new library location, the release adds.

For more information, view a recent episode of County Talk about the Venice Public Library on Sarasota County’s YouTube channel, call the county Contact Center at 861-5000 or visit www.scgov.net.