Best-selling author Harlan Coben announced as speaker at Sarasota library luncheon

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The Library Foundation for Sarasota County has announced that #1 New York Times bestselling author Harlan Coben will headline its 14th annual Love Our Libraries Author Luncheon on Friday, Feb. 6, 2026, at The Ora in Sarasota.

Coben's thrillers have sold more than 90 million copies worldwide. He is most known for chart-topping novels and hit Netflix adaptations including "Fool Me Once", "Stay Close", and "The Stranger". His upcoming novel, "Gone Before Goodbye", is a collaboration with Academy Award–winning actress Reese Witherspoon.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Harlan Coben as our featured speaker,” said Alisa Mitchell, executive director of the Library Foundation. “His storytelling and global reach make him an extraordinary guest for our community.”

The luncheon serves as the Library Foundation’s signature fundraiser, which has raised more than $3.7 million to strengthen Sarasota County’s library system through expanded programs, technology, and literacy initiatives.

Among the Foundation’s recent projects is the launch of Sarasota County’s first fully equipped Pop-Up Library, a $125,000 initiative designed to reach communities with limited access to traditional branches. The mobile library, which is staffed by a full-time librarian and outreach specialist, brings books, Wi-Fi, and STEM-based learning directly to residents through a mobile library van…