Executive director to leave Library Foundation

The Library Foundation for Sarasota County is searching for its next executive director following the announcement that Alisa Mitchell will leave the organization Sept. 1.

The nonprofit, at work since 2011, raises private funding to assist with county tax funding of the Sarasota library system.

Mitchell began her role with the foundation in March 2020 following years of work in Sarasota with such organizations as the Community Foundation of Sarasota County, the Forty Carrots Family Center and Sarasota County Libraries.

Mitchell helped guide the organization to record-breaking successes in fundraising with its sell-out annual author luncheon, the group said in a release, adding that she played a significant role in growing the donor base and more.

“Serving this organization has been one of the great privileges of my career, and I’m grateful for the trust placed in me to lead this work,’’ she said in a prepared statement. “Together with our dedicated board members, donors, staff and library partners, we’ve built a successful and sustainable organization that champions Sarasota County’s incredible public library system. As I look ahead to my next chapter, I do so with deep confidence in the strength, leadership and momentum of this organization.”

The foundation’s Board of Directors has begun the process of identifying the organization’s next executive director and is accepting applications through Aug. 3.

“The Library Foundation has a talented team, a committed board and an incredible network of supporters,” said foundation President Kat Wingert. “We are well-positioned to build on the growth Alisa has helped us establish while continuing to fulfill our mission.”