Library News

If you've ever dreamed of traveling the world without leaving your seat, Sarasota County Libraries have you covered. Through captivating travelogue presentations by world traveler Jane Mahler, you can explore breathtaking destinations, learn about diverse cultures, and hear unforgettable stories – all at your local library.

When Jane Mahler sets off on her adventures around the globe, she’s not just traveling for herself. Her journeys, filled with breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable cultural experiences, are brought back home to be shared with audiences in her renowned travelogue presentations.

Jane’s passion for travel began early. “We grew up in Michigan with dairy cows that don’t leave,” she recalls with a laugh. Traveling was an escape from the monotony of everyday life and a ticket to understanding the world. As a young adult fresh out of Michigan State University, Jane took her first big leap across the globe to Africa. What she thought would be a brief seven- or eight-month adventure turned into a transformative seven-year experience, during which she earned a second degree from the University of South Africa.

Her career in finance kept her grounded for many years, including twenty-four years with the Sarasota County School District, primarily managing federal grants. But once she retired six years ago, Jane returned to her passion for exploration. And it was a chance encounter at a senior center that set her on the path of sharing her travels with others.

“I was on my way to go trekking in the Himalayas, which I thought was pretty bad for an old lady,” Jane, now in her seventies, recounts with her trademark humor. At the suggestion of the center’s director, Jane agreed to present her photos and stories to a small audience upon her return. The response was so positive that Jane continued sharing her journeys with various groups, eventually being invited to present her travelogues at Sarasota County Libraries.

The programs are now one of the most popular offerings at multiple Sarasota County Library branches. Jane has captivated audiences with tales from more than fifty-six countries. “I have several people who say to me, ‘I don’t travel anymore, but I travel with you,’” Jane says.

What makes Jane's approach to travel so unique is her choice to explore the world through tour groups rather than travel agencies. She emphasizes that her journeys are not about luxury but about authentic experiences. “It’s about making connections with people and experiencing the culture, not just checking destinations off a list.”

Her presentations aren’t just about pretty pictures and interesting facts. They’re a form of connection. For Jane, it’s about making the world feel a little smaller and a lot more welcoming. “Travel overcomes bigotry, hatred, and narrow-mindedness. It makes me a better person because I see the bigger picture,” she explains, paraphrasing a quote by Mark Twain that’s become a guiding principle in her work.

Although Jane has travelled over a quarter of the world, she still feels there’s much more to explore. Her next adventure? A trip to Japan, where she plans to visit Tokyo and Mount Fuji before joining a tour group for more in-depth cultural experiences. It’s a daunting task to prepare, but Jane approaches it with the same enthusiasm she’s shown throughout her life.

Jane’s travelogues are a testament to her passion for lifelong learning and sharing that joy with others. “This feeds my soul,” she says. “And we all need to feed our souls.”

Want to travel the world with Jane? Keep an eye on the Sarasota County Libraries’ events calendar to catch one of her upcoming presentations. Whether you’ve been to every continent or have never left Florida, Jane’s storytelling promises to transport you to new places and inspire fresh dreams.

And if Jane's travel stories inspire you to learn a new language before your next adventure, don’t forget to check out Mango Languages – a powerful language-learning database available for free with your Sarasota County Library card. Whether you want to brush up on French or learn some basic Japanese phrases, Mango Languages has you covered. Visit the library’s website to access Mango Languages and start your language-learning journey today!

Travel Reads Inspired by Jane’s Journeys

To enhance your travel experience, check out these fantastic reads from Sarasota County Libraries that capture the spirit of exploration and cultural discovery:

• "Genghis Khan and the Making of the Modern World" by Jack Weatherford – The book Jane often references, detailing the fascinating history and legacy of Genghis Khan’s empire.
• "In Patagonia" by Bruce Chatwin – A captivating journey through South America’s southernmost region, filled with adventure, history, and fascinating characters.
• "The Geography of Bliss" by Eric Weiner – A unique travel memoir exploring the relationship between place and happiness, offering humor and insight into cultures around the world.
• "The Great Railway Bazaar" by Paul Theroux – A classic travelogue detailing Theroux’s train journey from London through Asia, including India and Japan.
• "Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China" by Jung Chang – A historical biography that spans three generations, providing an intimate look at China’s cultural and political upheaval.

Explore these books to deepen your knowledge of the destinations Jane has brought to life through her presentations. Visit your nearest Sarasota County Library or check the catalog or Mobile Apps to find your next great travel read!