07/13/2026
“Partnering with Your Local Library: How to Build a Great Relationship,” presented by Renee Di Pilato, Director of Sarasota County’s Libraries and Historical Resources
Working with your local library system is one of the most effective—and often overlooked—ways to promote your writing and reach new readers. The Sarasota County Library System includes 11 branches stretching from Sarasota to Englewood, and like library systems throughout the United States, each branch offers unique programs, community connections, and opportunities for authors. The Sarasota County History Center in Osprey is an especially rich resource for writers who draw on historical research or local archives. By exploring your library system’s events, workshops, and author friendly initiatives, you can expand your visibility, build relationships with librarians, and strengthen your writing career through community engagement.
Meeting Details:
• Date: Saturday, August 1, 206
• Time: 1:00 p.m. Chapter Business Meeting, 1:45 p.m. Presentation
• Location: Selby Library, 1331 1st St., Sarasota, FL
o This meeting will also be held via Zoom
o Chapter members will receive the Zoom link with the meeting agenda packet the day before the meeting
o SinC Worldwide members can obtain the Zoom link from the SinC LinC event notification in Chapter Events
o Non-members of the Florida Gulf Coast chapter or Sisters in Crime Worldwide can request the Zoom link by sending an email to [email protected]
Bio: Renee Di Pilato is the Director of Sarasota County’s Libraries and Historical Resources. Prior to assuming this role, she worked for the Alexandria Library, where she held several positions, including Deputy Director. Renee began her library career in her hometown of Virginia Beach, Virginia, before receiving her graduate degree in Library and Information Studies from the Catholic University of America. She also holds a Master’s in Public Administration from George Mason University and a Ph.D. in Managerial Leadership from Simmons University. Renee teaches as an adjunct faculty member at the University of Southern California and is always delighted to speak about libraries and their positive impact on our community.