Menika Dirkson joins us to discuss the history of race, policing, and community activism in Philadelphia from the 1930s through the 1970s, and the non-carceral solutions put into action by everyday people.

Poet, educator, and witch Robin Gow joins us to read from and sign faer middle-grade novel in verse, Dear Mothman. Selected by Booklist as one of the best books of 2023, Dear Mothman is the story of a young trans boy dealing with the loss of his friend by writing to his favorite cryptid, Mothman.

Bring yourself and your feelings, your thoughts, your worries or fears, let downs or disappointments, hopes and dreams. Facilitated by Susie Bash, this will be a safe and supportive space where we will gather to listen, witness and support you.

Local author and lawyer Howard Langer presents his debut novel, historical fiction about the sole surviving Rebbe of a Hasidic dynasty and his post-World War II experiences living in a Black community in Mississippi. Kirkus Reviews called this “A unique, musical novel that highlights the cultural riches people can offer one another in difficult circumstances.”

Alexis Rose Miller, who grew up in Mt. Airy, presents her compelling memoir of victory over adversity. A large part of this inspiring, transformational story takes place in Chestnut Hill!

PA polls are open 7 AM to 8 PM. We hope to see you there!

Local teacher, author, and intuitive healer Jana Marie Rose shares her book of letters written for young women, about women's equality in the 21st century. Each letter is from a different cafe in various arrondissements in Paris.

Social worker and health educator Aviva Perlo presents a guidebook designed to minimize suffering, offer concrete tools, and help you help yourself after tragedy strikes.

Based on a true story: the tale of a college girl, a celebrity encounter, a sexy restaurant, wealthy men, savvy women, and many moments of self-discovery, all set in Philly.

Shannon Downey joins us in our second-floor reading room to talk about her new book, Let's Move the Needle, an inspiring guide to social activism, from the artist and craftivist behind Badass Cross Stitch. She'll be in conversation with local activist and embroiderer Amanda Nordstrom. Bring a project to work on -- or pick up supplies from local yarn shop Wild Hand! -- for this stitch & bitch-style evening.

Bernardine Watson joins us in conversation with Fasaha M. Traylor, discussing Transplant, Watson's award-winning memoir about her journey with kidney disease.

Local author and educator Dr. Nandini Deo presents her new book, aimed at people interested in activism and nonprofits. 

Join us for the 15th Annual Mt. Airy Village Fair, spanning the intersection of Carpenter Lane and Greene Street in West Mount Airy — also known as “the Village." We'll be hosting author appearances at 12pm and 2pm.

An award-winning science writer discovers she's faceblind and investigates the neuroscience of sight, memory, and imagination — while solving some long-running mysteries about her own life. Author Sadie Dingfelder joins us in conversation with WHYY host Maiken Scott.

When legends bite back! Nicole M. Wolverton presents her young adult horror/suspense novel, A Misfortune of Lake Monsters. Joining her in conversation is Stephanie Willing, author of West of the Sea and voice of the protagonist in the audiobook of AMoLM.

Civil War Medicine in Philadelphia: Carole Adrienne, author of Healing a Divided Nation, offers a special program inspired by the book, showcasing the city's incredible contributions and featuring important regional institutions like Mower Hospital in Chestnut Hill.

CANCELLED DUE TO UNAVOIDABLE CIRCUMSTANCES. Subhaga Crystal Bacon reads from Transitory, a collection of elegies memorializing 46 transgender and gender-nonconforming people murdered in the US and Puerto Rico in 2020. Subhaga will be joined by local poet C.L. Liedekev.

Susan Schaefer reads from her poetry collection, Ride the New Morning.

A finalist for the Louise Meriwether First Book Prize and the Black Lawrence Press Immigrant Writing Series, Grace Loh Prasad’s memoir The Translator’s Daughter is about navigating linguistic, cultural, political, and generational barriers as a Taiwanese American immigrant trying to build a connection with her birthplace.

Black Philadelphians have shaped Philadelphia history since colonial times. In Black History in the Philadelphia Landscape, Amy Cohen recounts notable aspects of the Black experience in Philadelphia from the late 1600s to the 1960s and how this history is marked in the contemporary city.

Co-author Heather Shafter reads from and discusses the inspiring life story of peace and justice activist Libby Frank.

Joanne McLaughlin joins us together with local author and journalist Jane M. Von Bergen to discuss Joanne’s new murder mystery, Chasing Ashes.

Lyrically and sensitively written, Breathing Underwater is a slice-of-life story with depth, exploring topics like epilepsy, inclusivity in student athletics, changing friendships, and the power of love and community.

Author and literary translator Arielle Burgdorf presents their debut novel, Prétend, in conversation with local translator Martín Gaspar.

Beloved folk musician and storyteller Reggie Harris joins us with co-author Linda Hansell to present this inspiring narrative of bridge-building, hope, and resilience.