SANIBEL PUBLIC LIBRARY
The Sanibel Public Library will present a virtual author talk on Feb. 5 with Vanessa Riley.
The Sanibel Public Library provides a variety of programming for adults and children.
With support from the Sanibel Public Library Foundation, it has launched a series of virtual author talks to include bestselling authors and thought leaders. The next one will take place on Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. with novelist Vanessa Riley, award-winning author of “Island Queen” and “Murder in Westminster.” She will chat about her new book, “Fire Sword and Sea.”
Riley is the recipient of the 2024 Georgia Mystery/Detective Fiction Author of the Year. She writes Sagas and Book Club Fiction that brings to life the hidden narratives of Black women and women of color. Riley’s stories celebrate strong sisterhoods, diverse communities and resilience across historical fiction, romance and mystery genres. Her work has been featured in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Washington Post, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, Publishers Weekly and The New York Times.
To register for the author talk, visit https://libraryc.org/sanlib/upcoming.
Additionally, the library has the following programs scheduled:
The Doctor is No Longer In will be held on Feb. 4 from 11 a.m. to noon. Dr. MaryAnn Wilbur, of Sanibel, will present highlights from her book, “The Doctor is No Longer In.” A book signing will follow; participants can bring their own copy or some will be available for purchase.
On Feb. 4, Crafternoon: Rainbow Etching will take place from 3 to 4 p.m. Open to ages 5 and up, attendees will make a magical rainbow work of art. Etching supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance.
The Lincoln Assassination will be held on Feb. 5 from 11 a.m. to noon with Edison and Ford Winter Estates Museum Manager Holly Shaffer. This year marks the 161st anniversary of the assassination of the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. Attendees will hear about the events leading up to his assassination and what subsequently happened to the Lincoln family and Lincoln conspirators.
On Feb. 6, Baseball Enlists: Baseball During the Second World War will take place from 11 a.m. to noon with National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum Curator Emeritus Ted Spencer. The program will explore how America’s pastime responded to World War II. Drawing on a landmark exhibition, the it will examine the call to service among Major League players, baseball’s role on the home front and overseas, and the lasting impact of the war on the future of the game.
Family Strengthen & Stretch with Ms. Robin will be held on Feb. 7 from 10 to 10:30 a.m. Designed for children of all ages, the program will combine energetic movements, playful stretches and calming breath work. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a water bottle and towel.
On Feb. 9, Hurricane Ian: My Experience will take place from 11 a.m. to noon with library staffer and Sanibel resident John Niesel. He will present a photograph-filled personal account of his experiences before, during and after Hurricane Ian impacted the island.
Five Unusual Spices: Part 2 will be held on Feb. 10 from 11 a.m. to noon with library staffer Matt Gindling. The program will feature more uncommon, unique and often misunderstood spices and herbs, highlighting allspice, asafoetida, damiana, fenugreek and heather flower. Attendees will learn how to use the ingredients in a culinary setting, while exploring a bit of history along the way. They will also receive a booklet with tips and recipes, along with samples of the featured spices, while supplies last.
On Feb. 10, 3D Printing Valentine’s Day Decorations will take place from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Attendees will design, print and color themed holiday items during the hands-on makerspace technology class.
The History of Football will be held on Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to noon with Facility Manager Derek Baker. The program will explore the history, excitement and life lessons of football. From the first college game in 1869 to today’s Super Bowl tradition, attendees will discover how the sport grew into America’s favorite pastime. They will look at teamwork, resilience, the thrill of victory and agony of defeat, with famous plays, stories and even a few fun activities.
On Feb. 11, America’s 250th Birthday in Our National Parks will take place from 2 to 3 p.m. with Penny Musco.
Crafternoon: Valentine’s Day Edition will be held on Feb. 11 from 3 to 4 p.m. Open to ages 3 and up, attendees will decorate a picture frame for Valentine’s Day. A variety of craft supplies will be available, along with examples and guidance.
WEEKLY PROGRAMMING
– Family Storytime: Fridays and Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11 a.m.
Bring the whole family to enjoy stories, songs, movement and early literacy play centers that spark creativity and motor skills. Open to babies and toddlers and their caregivers.
Library cards are available to residents of Sanibel and Lee County at no charge. Visitor library cards are available for a $10 annual fee.
The library is open on Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For more information, visit https://sanlib.org/ or call 239-472-2483.
The Sanibel Public Library is at 770 Dunlop Road, Sanibel.