FOVL Proud to Support Off the Page Celebration

This November, book lovers across Sarasota County will come alive as the annual Off the Page Literary Celebration returns - and the Friends of Venice Library (FOVL) is honored to be the presenting sponsor once again this year!

What is Off the Page?
Hosted by Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources, Off the Page is a month-long literary festival featuring bestselling authors, interactive workshops, book signings, writing panels and more - all free and open to the public. Over the years it has become a beloved event, weaving together readers, writers and curious minds from every corner of the county.

The festival kicks off on November 1 with a full-day writer’s conference at Selby Library, offering sessions led by professionals and faculty from Ringling College of Art and Design.

Headliners include Amy Tan, appearing November 7, with a number of other author programs taking place across all ten Sarasota County libraries.

Why FOVL is Delighted to Be Involved
As longtime advocates for the Venice community and the Dr. Jervey Venice Public Library, FOVL is thrilled to support Off the Page. We believe in the power of libraries and literature to educate, inspire and connect people. This festival is a perfect example of the value of libraries - offering free programming, education and inspiration to the community.

By serving as the key sponsor, FOVL helps make possible bringing top-tier literary talent to our doorstep. We are proud to help ensure that residents of Venice and surrounding neighborhoods can attend author events, workshops and literary gatherings locally and at no cost.

What’s Happening at Venice (Dr. William H. Jervey Jr.) Public Library
While Off the Page events are being held at all ten libraries branches and more, our very own Jervey Venice Library will be the host for the following:

• Robert K. Wittman - Wednesday, Nov. 12, 3-4:30pm
  Join Robert Wittman, a famed FBI art crime detective who recovered over $300 million in stolen art, as he reveals thrilling stories behind major art theft recoveries as told in his bestselling book “Priceless.”

• Stan Tekiela - Friday, Nov. 14 from 1-2:30pm
  Over the past four decades Stan Tekiela has authored more than 200 field guides, nature appreciation books and wildlife audio CDs for nearly every state in the nation.

• Fiona Davis - Thursday, Nov. 20, 6-7:30pm
  Fiona Davis will be at the William H. Jervey, Jr. Venice Library to discuss her transition from actress to author, explaining her novels, including her latest historical fiction, “The Stolen Queen.”

Join Us in Celebrating Literature
Off the Page unites the broader Sarasota County literary community - and FOVL could not be more delighted to play a leading role. Whether you’re a reader, an aspiring writer or simply someone who loves stories, there’s something in this festival for you.

We invite you to mark your calendars, explore the full festival schedule, and especially participate in the events happening right here at Venice Library. Together, we'll celebrate the joy of reading - off the page and into our lives.