The Library Foundation for Sarasota County Announces $40,000 in Grants to Support 2025 Summer Programs at Sarasota County Libraries.
Three Sarasota-based family foundations—the Harry Shapiro Charitable Foundation, the Koski Family Foundation, and the Bladel Charitable Trust—provided funding for 2025 summer programming at Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources through a $40,000 grant made via the Library Foundation for Sarasota County. The grant supports the Summer Learning program and the Artists in the Libraries series, expanding educational and enrichment offerings for all ages.
Summer Learning keeps children engaged during the months when many students experience a decline in academic skills, while also providing lifelong learning opportunities for adults and seniors. Running May 31 through August 2, the program offers educational offerings in STEM, the arts, and literacy. In 2024, Summer Learning delivered 565 programs in partnership with 15 community organizations, serving over 17,000 participants.
The Artists in the Libraries series brings hands-on art workshops to children, adults, and seniors across a wide range of artistic mediums. By collaborating with established local artists, the series promotes community engagement, creative expression, and lifelong learning while making art accessible to all. 24 Artists in the Libraries workshops will be offered across all ten branches.
“We’re grateful to the Harry Shapiro Charitable Foundation, the Koski Family Foundation, and the Bladel Charitable Trust for their generous support. Their commitment ensures that children and families across Sarasota County have access to wonderful educational experiences during the summer months,” says Alisa Mitchell, Executive Director, Library Foundation for Sarasota County.
Since its founding in 2011, the nonprofit Library Foundation for Sarasota County has raised more than $8 million in private funds for the benefit of Sarasota County public libraries. To learn more about the Library Foundation for Sarasota County, please visit SarasotaLibraryFoundation.org or call 941-4043139.