Sarasota County is launching a new effort to bring to communities the classes, information and programs they want, when and where they want them. The “Community Connections” series partners the resources of UF/IFAS Extension Sarasota County and Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources to delivery free, monthly workshops at local libraries. Events run through December, with topics ranging from healthy eating on a budget to wildlife education.

“We are excited about this partnership that will establish a consistent presence of Extension staff within these communities to answer questions, teach best practices, and make connections,” said Lee Hayes Byron, Sarasota County Extension director. “There are so many interesting classes planned and engaging activities for adults and youth, alike.”

“UF/IFAS Extension is one of our longstanding partners, and we are delighted to expand our collaboration through this series of enriching programs,” said Renee Di Pilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources.

The series has developed with input from community members, who expressed a desire for expanded educational opportunities on specific topics of interest to them, while also providing input on the most convenient times for their families. Based on that input, Extension will offer customized classes to neighborhood libraries throughout the year. The initial run brings events to two key libraries in the north and south regions of the county: Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library, 2801 Newtown Blvd., Sarasota; and North Port Library, 13800 S. Tamiami Trail, North Port.

Planned events include: “All About Your Tap Water,” “Shared Spaces: Creating Your Edible Garden,” “Creatures of the Deep,” “MyPlate on a Budget,” “EcoTalk: Bats!” and more. There are also events specifically geared to youth audiences, including: “Solar for Kids,” “Sarasota Wildlife: InvestiGATOR,” and others.

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