America250 Celebration at Selby Library

Next date: Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 11:00 AM to 04:00 PM

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources will host a free America250 Celebration at Selby Library on Saturday, July 11.

The event will commemorate the nation's 250th anniversary with live music, presentations by Florida author Doug Alderson, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.

The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and features live music, a Sarasota and U.S. history exhibit, a community art project, cultural displays, interactive activities, and free refreshments. The full event schedule is available online.

Alderson will present “Iconic Images of Florida” at 2 p.m., a pictorial journey through Old Florida. At 3:30 p.m., the author will present “Florida Dance,” a collection of Florida stories spanning 1968 to 2024.

The celebration is part of the library system’s America250 initiative, a systemwide effort offering arts, history, and cultural programs for all ages.

"America's 250th anniversary is an opportunity to reflect on the people, events, and ideas that shaped our nation," said Dr. Renée Di Pilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources. "We're excited to bring the community together to explore history, share perspectives, and celebrate the stories that connect us."

The department is also partnering with Florida Humanities on the Florida Reflections series, part of the national “By the People: Conversations Beyond 250” initiative. The series explores Florida's role in the American experience through history, civic engagement, and cultural understanding.

All programs are free and open to the public. For more information, visit the event page or call 311 or 941-861-5000.

About Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources is a system of 10 community library branches, a history center, and a mobile library. The department provides opportunities for lifelong learning, cultural experiences, and enriching activities for residents of all ages. Learn more at SarasotaCountyLibraries.org