For over a century, The Bank of Southside Virginia (BSV) has been committed to strengthening the local community. “Our mission is deeply rooted in the love and care we have for this area, and we aren’t going anywhere,” says a representative from BSV. “Every day, we strive to drive economic growth for local businesses and residents because we understand that a community like ours stays strong when money stays within it. We are dedicated to ensuring that our community’s prosperity is not outsourced to those who do not live here or care about Southside Virginia.”

However, financial strength alone does not build a strong community. It requires a blend of thoughtful ingredients, including politics, arts, philanthropy, equity, historic preservation, nature, and values-driven community leaders. These elements, when combined, create a vibrant and resilient community.

One such community leader is Wayne Crocker, the Director of the Petersburg Public Library. Wayne embodies the spirit and dedication needed to strengthen the community. Over the past 40 years, he has transformed the library into much more than a repository of books. Under his leadership, the Petersburg Public Library has become a beacon of hope in an area where hope can sometimes be in short supply. His decades of service and commitment to bettering Petersburg are truly humbling.

“It is our honor to work with and celebrate leaders like Wayne Crocker in our own small way,” says the BSV representative. “We believe in highlighting the people and places that make Southside Virginia strong through our marketing campaign, ‘BSV Loves Local.’ This campaign features photos and videos shared across various channels, including Facebook, TV, and outdoor billboards.”

In the featured image taken by photographer Scott Elmquist, Wayne Crocker is seen standing proudly within the Petersburg Public Library, a testament to his enduring impact on the community. As BSV continues to support and promote local heroes like Wayne, they are reminded of the vital role these individuals play in fostering a strong, united, and thriving community.

This year is particularly special as the Petersburg Public Library also celebrates its 100th anniversary. “We are excited to recognize this milestone and look forward to the many ways we will continue to support our community together,” says the BSV representative. “Stay tuned for more stories of incredible local leaders and the initiatives that keep Southside Virginia vibrant. Together, we can continue to build a community where every resident has the opportunity to flourish.”

For the month of May, come and see the 40 Faces, 40 Years exhibit on display at Petersburg Public Library! We had the opportunity to sit down with one of the unique faces of the exhibit: Briana Green, captured through the lens of renowned photographer Glen McClure.

Born in Norfolk and lifelong resident of Virginia, Glen McClure has brought the people and places of the US and Europe into focus through his photography. His path began to unfold after he purchased his first camera at 19, leading him to become a photographer’s assistant at the Studio Center in Norfolk and later the photography manager at Arthur Polizos Associates.

McClure’s portfolio gradually evolved from commercial photography to artistic portraits and landscapes, with his stunning images of “real people” in their natural habitats gaining international acclaim. Influenced by early 20th-century photographers Josef Sudek and Paul Strand, McClure’s work is recognized for masterful techniques and immediate connections between subject and viewer.

His deep love of world travel has inspired haunting, panoramic images of natural wonders across Virginia, Italy, France, and Ireland. With over 65 solo exhibitions and 50 group exhibitions in the US and Europe, McClure’s work is celebrated in private collections and museums worldwide, including the Chrysler Museum of Art, The Polaroid Collection, and The Mariners Museum.

Join us as we delve into Briana Green’s story, captured by the talented lens of Glen McClure, and explore the powerful narratives behind each portrait in the ’40 Faces, 40 Years’ exhibit.

Briana Green, a native of the Richmond area, was born in Las Vegas, Nevada, and grew up in Dinwiddie and Chesterfield, Virginia, alongside her older sister. Placed in foster care as a child, Briana was raised by family members, who received support from the Virginia Department of Social Services for her and her siblings’ care during their school years. This assistance was also intended to facilitate Briana’s higher education, which she pursued at VCU, graduating with a major in criminal justice. Throughout her academic journey, she interned with juvenile probation and now serves as a mental health specialist, leveraging her expertise to intervene in juvenile cases before they escalate to probationary measures.

Despite her dedication and perseverance, Briana faced financial challenges, as she was unaware that her foster family received support for her education. Consequently, she resorted to taking out student loans to cover living expenses on top of tuition costs. Seeking resolution to this family dispute, Briana has turned to the Virginia Poverty Law Center’s family law attorney for assistance.

Nestled in the heart of Petersburg, Virginia, the Petersburg Public Library is more than just a building; it’s a cherished cornerstone of our community. This year, we’re thrilled to mark a major milestone: the library’s 100th anniversary! Let’s take a journey through its rich history and the impact it’s had on generations of Petersburg residents.

Our story begins in the historic William R. McKenney Memorial Building, a place steeped in history. Built in 1859 as a private home by John Dodson, Petersburg’s first mayor, it has seen its fair share of notable figures pass through its doors, including General William Mahone, known as the “Hero of the Crater.” But it was a heartfelt gesture by Clara Pickrell McKenney that changed its course forever.

After the passing of her husband, William R. McKenney, a respected local politician, Clara generously gifted the building to the city in 1924. Her vision? To create a space for learning and community, a library and museum in honor of her beloved husband. Thus, the Petersburg Public Library was born, initially named the William R. McKenney Free Library.

Since then, the library has been so much more than a place to borrow books. It’s been a hub of learning, creativity, and connection. From hosting story times for kids to providing resources for job seekers, the library has been there for Petersburg residents every step of the way.

As we celebrate our centennial, we invite you to join us in honoring our past and looking forward to our future. We’ll be hosting a series of special events throughout the year, from historical exhibits to author talks and more. It’s our way of saying thank you to the community that has supported us for the past 100 years.

So here’s to the Petersburg Public Library: a place where stories come to life, where knowledge knows no bounds, and where community thrives. Here’s to the next 100 years of learning, growing, and celebrating together. See you at the library!

Experience the Rhythmic Melodies of “Jazz in the Stacks 2024”

Get ready to swing into the groove as Petersburg Public Library proudly presents “Jazz in the Stacks,” a series of live music events set amidst the literary haven of our beloved library. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable journey through jazz with an electrifying lineup of bands scheduled to perform on select dates from April 12 to September 13 2024.

The “Jazz in the Stacks” lineup promises to captivate audiences of all ages with an eclectic mix of talented musicians and vibrant performances. Prepare to be serenaded by the following stellar acts:

April 12, 2024 – Corey El and The Fam Band

June 14, 2024 – Kozy Cats Band and Show

July 12, 2024 – Soul Unlimited Band and Show

August 9, 2024 – Brother Blues Band and Show

September 13, 2024 – Dap Mallory Band and Show

Immerse yourself in an evening of soulful tunes, infectious rhythms, and smooth melodies, all set against the backdrop of our historic library. But the experience doesn’t stop there! Indulge your senses with delectable food and a selection of alcoholic beverages available onsite (for a fee$).

Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM-8:30pm

Location: Petersburg Public Library

Admission to “Jazz in the Stacks” is free for all, so gather your friends and family for a memorable night of music, camaraderie, and cultural enrichment.

Join us as we transform the Petersburg Public Library into a dynamic hub of jazz and community spirit. Don’t miss out on the amazing sounds of “Jazz in the Stacks”!