SARASOTA COUNTY – Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources announced the lineup for the 2026 Off the Page literary celebration, featuring bestselling authors Anthony Horowitz, Brad Meltzer, Nathaniel Philbrick and Kate Quinn.

The annual event begins on Sunday, Nov. 1, with programming throughout the month at all 10 library branches and community venues. Events include author presentations, writing workshops, book signings, family activities and more. All events are free and open to the public.

“We’ve been honored to welcome some of the nation’s most acclaimed writers, connecting our community directly with the voices that help shape the literary world,” said Dr. Renée Di Pilato, director of Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources. “Last year, Off the Page reached a new milestone. It was nationally recognized with a feature in Library Journal, affirming that it's a truly special program.”

Off the Page Featured Events and Authors

Publishing Day, Sunday, Nov. 1, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Selby Library

Selby Library will open on a special day for the launch of Off the Page with a writer conference and local author showcase featuring publishing industry experts and writing instructors.

Family Day, Saturday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Shannon Staub Library
Family Day features story time, a petting zoo, crafts, refreshments and more, along with award-winning “Llama” series creators Heather Fox and Jonathan Stutzman and Disney entertainer Dapper Danielle.

Anthony Horowitz, Saturday, Nov. 7, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Selby Library

Best-selling author and screenwriter Anthony Horowitz is the creator of the award-winning television series “Foyle’s War” and author of the “Alex Rider” series and “Magpie Murders,” which was adapted into a television series on PBS.

Nathaniel Philbrick, Thursday, Nov. 12, 7 to 9 p.m. at Riverview Performing Arts Center
National Book Award-winning author Nathaniel Philbrick is known for “In the Heart of the Sea,” which was adapted into a major motion picture, as well as the historical nonfiction works “Mayflower” and “Travels with George.”

Brad Meltzer, Friday, Nov. 13, 7 to 9 p.m. at Venice Performing Arts Center
New York Times best-selling author Brad Meltzer, author of “The JFK Conspiracy,” will discuss stories of heroism and history along with his newest novel, “The Viper.”

Kate Quinn, Thursday, Nov. 19, 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Venice Community Center
New York Times best-selling author Kate Quinn, author of “The Alice Network” and “The Rose Code,” will discuss her newest novel, “The Astral Library.”

Many more authors will participate throughout the month, and book sales and signings will be available while supplies last.

Off the Page is a nationally recognized literary celebration hosted by Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources.

This program is made possible through sponsorships from the Friends of the Venice Public Library, Florida Humanities, the Library Foundation for Sarasota County and others.

For more information and a complete list of participating authors and events, visit OffthePageFL.org.