SRQCon, free pop culture convention, set for June 7 at Selby Library in downtown Sarasota

Hosted by county’s Libraries and Historical Resources staff, event to include gaming, cosplay, storytelling and creative expression

A county staff worker interviews an attendee during the 2024 SRQCon. This is a still from a county video, via the Sarasota County Government Facebook page

The staff of the Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources Department is inviting the public to attend SRQCon, “a free pop culture convention” that will take place on Saturday, June 7, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Selby Library, which stands at 1331 First St. in downtown Sarasota, the county has announced.

“SRQCon transforms the library into an all-ages celebration of comics, gaming, cosplay, storytelling and creative expression,” a news release explains. “Attendees can expect an action-packed day featuring panels, workshops, interactive activities, live demonstrations, virtual reality, crafts, and a cosplay contest,” the release adds.

“This event is quickly becoming one of Southwest Florida’s most exciting comic conventions,” said Renée DiPilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources, in the release. “What makes SRQCon truly special,” she noted, “is that it’s completely free to attend and everyone is welcome to join in the fun.”

The following is the schedule of events for the June 7 event:

11 to 11:45 a.m.

  • Gesture Drawing Workshop — Conference Room (ages 15 and up).
  • Katie Adams’ Shadow Puppet Show — Auditorium (all ages).

11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (drop-ins)

  • Dragon Eye Craft — Creation Station (ages 5 and up).
  • VR Exploration — Upstairs Art Area (ages 10 and up).

Noon to 12:30 p.m.

  • ShimmyBoom Cosplay Dance — Auditorium (all ages).

1 to 1:45 p.m.

  • Cosplay Contest — Auditorium (ages 5 and up).
  • Drawing with Dean — Conference Room (ages 9 and up).
Image courtesy Sarasota County

1 to 3 p.m.

  • Decorating Parasols, Caps, or Fans — Youth Program Room (ages 5 and up).

2 to 2:45 p.m.

  • Comic Creation with Bat City Comics — Auditorium (ages 13 and up).
  • Cosplay Tips Panel — Conference Room (ages 8 and up).

2 to 4 p.m.

  • Kodama Craft — Auditorium (ages 5 and up).
  • Video Games — Teen Room (ages 8 and up).

3 to 3:45 p.m.

  • Magic Bunny Q&A — Auditorium (ages 3+)
  • Horror Writing Workshop — Conference Room (ages 18+)

“Cosplay is encouraged,” the release says, though it points out that “guests are reminded to ensure costumes are appropriate for all ages and comply with county and library rules of conduct.

“SRQCon is free and open to the public,” the release adds. “No tickets or registration are required.”

The release also says that the Mr. Bulgogi food truck will be on site.

For more information, visit SarasotaCountyLibraries.org or call 311 or 941-861-1110.