Owning a Business and Giving Back to the Community

By Judith Williams, Founder of JD Wms Diversity Group, LLC, and President of the Friends of Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library

As a business owner, I believe giving back means supporting the resources that help our community thrive. Serving as president of the Friends of Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library has deepened my appreciation for the vital role libraries play in making that possible.

The Friends support library programs and activities through fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy. Our efforts help strengthen opportunities for learning, cultural enrichment, and community connection.

Did you know that libraries offer children a welcome place to read, explore, and participate in educational activities? Library programs encourage literacy and curiosity while complementing the work of our schools and families.

The benefits extend to adults, too. Public libraries provide access to books on a wide range of subjects, including business and professional development. Sarasota County libraries also offer public computers, free Wi-Fi, digital resources, and staff assistance. Meeting and study rooms are available at designated locations.

For entrepreneurs and small-business owners, these resources can provide a starting point for researching an idea, strengthening business knowledge, or accessing technology.

Research published by the Florida Department of State documents the economic value of public libraries. Libraries support learning and access to information and contributes to employment and economic activity in Florida.

Even as technology changes how we find information, libraries remain relevant. They help people access and use technology while continuing to serve readers, students, families, job seekers, and business owners of all ages.

To me, owning a business and giving back to the community go hand in hand. Supporting our library is one way I invest in the people and opportunities that strengthen our shared future.

I invite you to visit the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Public Library, explore its resources, and consider supporting the Friends through membership, volunteering, or a donation.

When we support our libraries, we invest in our community’s future.

Learn more: https://www.bettyjjohnsonfriends.org/