Manatee County libraries want to put you at a table with James Patterson. The bestselling author headlines Booked for Lunch on Friday, Oct. 23, at the Palmetto Marriott Resort & Spa, noon to 1 p.m., with a book signing to follow. One winner gets a ticket to the luncheon plus a book signed by Patterson. Entry boxes are set up at all seven library branches from Oct. 9 through Oct. 16. The winner is drawn at random, announced Oct. 19, and contacted using the information provided on the entry form.
County librarian Andy Sulavik says Patterson will talk about his career, share behind-the-scenes Hollywood stories, and explain what it takes to be as prolific as he is. The fundraiser supports library resources and youth literacy initiatives, and it arrives at a busy moment: programming is up nearly 8%, and 3,000 new cardholders joined in the past month. Library Foundation board member Kevin Allen points to demand for in-person group activities as part of the surge.
While you’re at the branch entering, it’s worth asking what else your card covers. Museum passes, printing, youth programs, and more come free with a Manatee County library card. Seven branches means seven chances to enter, so there’s no reason to skip it.
Will you be dropping an entry in the box this week? Tell us which branch is your home library.
