PPLS Blog Archives - Petersburg Public Library

May 8, 2026

Peace from Anxiety with Jade Carter

May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness around emotional wellness and encouraging honest conversations about mental health, stress, anxiety, and healing.

This month, the Petersburg Public Library is proud to feature Virginia-based contemporary abstract artist Jade Carter (Doing Business as Creating AS) and her exhibit, Peace from Anxiety.

The title alone speaks to something many people quietly experience every day.

Anxiety can often feel overwhelming, loud, unpredictable, and difficult to explain. For some, it appears as racing thoughts or emotional exhaustion. For others, it can feel like pressure to keep pushing forward while carrying invisible weight. In a world filled with constant noise, responsibilities, and uncertainty, finding moments of peace has become increasingly important.

Through texture, movement, and layered emotion, Creating AS transforms those feelings into visual expression.

Inspired by music, film, perseverance, vulnerability, and everyday life, her abstract works explore the tension between chaos and calm. Some paintings emerge intense and emotionally charged, while others offer softness, stillness, and reflection. Together, the collection creates a visual conversation about resilience, identity, emotional honesty, and the search for peace within difficult moments.

Working with acrylic paint, acrylic ink, spray paint, spackle, paint knives, and Sakura ink pens, Creating AS embraces experimentation and instinct as essential parts of the creative process. Rather than aiming for perfection, she allows emotion to guide each piece organically.

Influenced by Vincent van Gogh and Michelangelo, Creating AS views art as both expression and escape — a way to process emotion, block out the noise of the world, and create something honest from it.

Featured works in the exhibit include:

Pieces, a connected three-piece composition exploring individuality within unity
Backbone, a textured work symbolizing strength and resilience
Victorian, a matte black textured painting embracing emotional honesty and self-expression
The Best of Me, a piece created through emotional exhaustion and perseverance, inspired in part by Suga and themes of resilience

During Mental Health Awareness Month, Peace from Anxiety serves as a reminder that creativity can be more than art. It can become reflection, release, healing, and connection.

Sometimes peace does not arrive all at once. Sometimes it is found in quiet moments, honest expression, supportive spaces, music, books, conversation, or even standing in front of a painting that reflects something you have felt but never knew how to describe.

We invite the community to visit the exhibit, reflect, and take a moment for themselves inside the library’s gallery space.

Come. Discover the Wonder Within You.

April 3, 2026

Jazz in the Stacks 2026

The 2026 Jazz in the Stacks Concert Series returns with six exciting performances from talented regional musicians. This popular series takes place on the second Friday of each month from April through September.

Each live concert is hosted on stage inside of the Petersburg Public Library Conference & Event Center.

2026 Concert Lineup

Friday, April 10 – Jay Baxter & J.A.M.
Friday, May 8 – The Fam Band
Friday, June 12 – Sounds Funny Band
Friday, July 10 – Kozy Cats Band
Friday, August 14 – Soul Unlimited Band
Friday, September 11 – Rodney Stith

The series is hosted by Micah “Bam Bam” White, a comedian, actor, and speaker. He has appeared on platforms such as TEDx, All Star Comedy Show, and the movie Red Kool-Aid. His energy and personality help create a fun and engaging experience at every concert.

“Jazz in the Stacks is part of the Downtown Petersburg tradition of ‘Friday for the Arts,’ which we help keep alive,” said Wayne Crocker, Library Director.

What once focused on visual art and an artist of the month has evolved into a musical celebration that honors the performing arts and the literary arts, since someone had to compose and write each song. Each performance offers a safe, welcoming space for the community to connect, enjoy great music, and celebrate local talent. The series provides a free, engaging cultural experience while also encouraging reading and literacy throughout the year.

Event Details

Location:
Petersburg Public Library
201 W. Washington St.
Petersburg, VA 23803

Time:
Doors open at 6:00 PM

Admission:
Free and open to the public

Food and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase

Safety:
Security is present at each concert to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment.

What to Expect

Live Music
Fun
Jazz in the Stacks is one of Petersburg’s most popular live music events. Many concerts reach capacity, with standing-room-only crowds.
Arrive on time to secure your spot and enjoy an evening of great music in an intimate setting.
If our parking lot is full, you may park next door at the church beside us.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Interested in supporting Jazz in the Stacks? Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to connect with a strong and engaged audience.

Dominion Energy is already a sponsor of the September 11, 2026 concert.

For more information, please contact [email protected].

April 1, 2026

We Don’t Always Have Every Book on Hand, But We Can Get It for You (FREE)

Did you know that if the book, audiobook, or research material you want isn’t available at Petersburg Public Library, we can get it for you through Interlibrary Loan (ILL)? That’s right — access millions of resources from libraries across the country, at no cost to you.

How Interlibrary Loans Work

Request Your Item: Ask a librarian at the Petersburg Public Library
We Find It: Our staff searches partner libraries nationwide to locate the item.
Pick It Up: When it arrives (within 1-2 weeks), you’ll be notified and can pick it up at the library.
Read & Return: Enjoy the item and return it by the due date, just like any other library material.

Why you should Try Interlibrary Loans?

Expand Your Options: Get books, articles, and media not available in our collection.
Save Money: Borrow instead of buying costly or hard-to-find materials.
Support Your Learning: Perfect for students, researchers, or anyone pursuing a personal project.

Ready to Request Your First Item?

Stop by the Petersburg Public Library (Come inside or Use our Drive Through Service) to submit your request today!

April 1, 2026

Come See Jazzology: Presented by Joshua Branch-Howell

Experience the vibrant world of jazz through art! The Petersburg Public Library is proud to present Jazzology, the April 2026 Artist of the Month exhibit by local talent Joshua “Ray” Branch-Howell. The exhibit will be on display throughout the month of April 2026, offering visitors a chance to explore artwork inspired by Jazz Appreciation Month.

Artist Talk & Meet-and-Greet

Join us on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM for an artist talk and meet-and-greet with Joshua “Ray” Branch-Howell. Ray will share insights into his creative process, discuss the inspiration behind Jazzology, and answer questions from attendees. This is a unique opportunity for students, art enthusiasts, and the community to connect directly with one of our region’s rising artists.

About Joshua “Ray” Branch-Howell

Born in Hopewell in 2003 and raised in the Petersburg/Chesterfield tri-county area, Ray began making art at just two years old after being diagnosed with autism. Influenced by music, he has developed a style rooted in experimentation and rhythm, often using oil pastels and printmaking as his signature mediums. Many of his works pay tribute to musicians and cultural figures, blending African diasporic traditions with contemporary expression.

Ray’s work has earned recognition nationally and regionally, including exhibitions such as The Space Between Notes: Thelonious Monk Tribute Exhibition at Paper Mill Playhouse, the National Conference of Artists MLK Jr. Commemorative Exhibition at Ashé Cultural Arts Center, and The EMERGE IX Exhibition at the Bond Millen Gallery. His triptych The Path of Monk is part of the official Thelonious Monk Estate collection.

Currently living in Colonial Heights, Ray is completing his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts at Virginia State University. His recent projects explore themes of music, cultural identity, and social commentary, making Jazzology a celebration of rhythm, creativity, and local culture.

Visit the Exhibit

Stop by the Petersburg Public Library throughout April 2026 to experience Jazzology in person. Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month, explore the intersection of music and visual art, and support a talented young artist from our community.

April 1, 2026

Black Author Expo 2026: A Celebration of Black Voices and Community

Author J.K. Lynch might say, “You Can’t Make This Stuff Up.” All of this Black support, all of this positive energy, all this Black fellowship, all this Black love, and all of these brilliant, creative, and educated authors right here at the Petersburg Public Library. This was the Black Author Expo 2026 like you’ve never seen it or maybe you have if you were here in 2025.

An Event for the Books: The Black History Books

The Black Author Expo 2026 featured a wide range of voices, from first-time children’s authors like Destiny Bryant to award-winning author Carole Boston Weatherford. Whether attendees were looking for children’s books, inspirational writing, poetry, memoirs, or fiction, there was something in the room for everyone.

Held on Saturday, February 28, 2026, the Expo brought together more than 60 authors along with readers, families, and community members for an afternoon focused on literacy, storytelling, and uplifting Black voices in literature.

Growth, Energy, and Returning Authors

The event continues to grow each year, and returning authors made that very clear. Dr. Tia Palmer, attending for the third year in a row, shared:

“This was my third year attending, and I just have to say every single year it grows and becomes even more amazing. The energy, organization, and overall experience continue to level up each year. Most importantly, I always feel the love, and that means everything. I’m already looking forward to the next one.”

Connecting Authors and Readers

Throughout the day, authors connected with readers, sold books, met new audiences, and built relationships with fellow writers. Many said the most meaningful part of the Expo was simply being in a room filled with other Black authors and a community that supports them.

When asked about their favorite parts of the event, authors highlighted:

Meeting other authors
Talking with readers and the community
Networking and building relationships
Seeing the strong turnout of families and young readers
Being part of an event that celebrates Black voices in literature

Author Yvonne J. Medley shared that her favorite moments included the featured author presentation by mother-son duo Carole Boston Weatherford and Jefferey Boston Weatherford, meeting readers who purchased her books (she sold at least 20), and connecting with other authors. Other authors highlighted interacting with patrons, sharing their stories, meeting new writers, and experiencing the positive energy of the event.

More Than Just a Book Event

The Black Author Expo 2026 once again proved to be more than just a book event. It was a celebration of culture, literacy, creativity, and community. From first-time authors to seasoned literary voices, the Expo continues to grow into one of the most meaningful literary gatherings in the region.

February 13, 2026

Black Author Expo 2026: Be There!

The Petersburg Public Library proudly announces the return of the Black Author Expo 2026, Virginia’s largest free Black author-centered literary event.

The Expo will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Petersburg Public Library.

Featured Authors: Carole Boston Weatherford & Jeffery Boston Weatherford

This year’s Expo highlights award-winning authors Carole Boston Weatherford and Jeffery Boston Weatherford, a celebrated mother and son duo. Their work centers on Black history, resilience, and imagination.

Their achievements include:

80+ published books
2 NAACP Image Awards
18 American Library Association Youth Media Awards
Newbery Honor
Coretta Scott King Award
4 Caldecott Honors
The Claudia Lewis Award (Bank Street College of Education)
The Boston Globe Horn Book Award

Their presence is a major highlight for the 2026 Expo and reinforces its growing statewide impact.

About the Expo

In addition to the Weatherfords, the Expo will feature 60+ Black authors, writers, and educators. Attendees will have the chance to:

Discover new voices
Engage in meaningful conversations
Support Black literature during Black History Month

Following the success of the 2025 Expo, which drew hundreds of attendees and over 45 authors, the 2026 event promises to be even larger. It continues to strengthen its reputation as a cornerstone literary celebration in Virginia.

Event Features

Held in partnership with Resist Booksellers, a Black-owned independent bookstore in Petersburg, the Expo will include:

Book signings
Author meet-and-greets
Books across every genre: children’s literature, poetry, faith, self-help, and fiction

“The Black Author Expo is more than a literary event,” said Wayne Crocker, Director of the Petersburg Public Library.
“It is a celebration of storytelling, legacy, and representation during Black History Month.”

“The goal has always been to make sure everyone, from a first-time reader to a seasoned writer, feels seen, valued, and inspired,” said Demetrius Frazier, owner of Resist Booksellers.
“We are proud to see this Expo grow into a cornerstone event for Black literature in Virginia.”

The event is completely free for both attendees and authors, reflecting the library’s commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: Petersburg Public Library, Conference & Event Center
201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803

Website: www.ppls.org
Phone: (804) 733-2387

Sponsorship Inquiries: Raleigh Desper – [email protected]

Participating Authors

The 2026 Black Author Expo will feature the following distinguished authors, writers, and educators:

Adele Williams
Alfreda Gregory
Alvin Schexnider
Barry Beck, Jr.
Bradley Johnson
Bria Freitas
Bryan Garland
C. Rose Dahl
Calmfirmations
Cecil Avery
Christopher Green
Colleen Bray
Cutina Walker
Daniel Davis
Debra Johnson
Denise LaJuan Peters
Desmond Ross
Destiny Bryant
Doris Ryan
Dr. Barbara H. Smith
Dr. Bridgette Y. Williams
Dr. Kimberly Mitchell
Dr. Na’Shayla Nelson
Dr. Tia Palmer
Elizabeth Willis
Frances Crouch
Healing Angel
Iche Palms
J’ana Price
James Rollins
Jamare Bates
Jamica Whitaker
Jamie “Jai” Morrison
Jamila Romero
Jessieca Montgomery
JK Lynch
LaStar Vieira
Lakeisha Crawford
Lakeshia Crawford
Laymetha Guy
Mary Day Sims
Mary Gerald-Patterson
Maurice Brown
Mechelle Harris
Mccarthy Barnes, Jr.
Paula Banks
Patricia Moore
Rhonda Stanford
Ronald Robinson
S. LaTisha Branch-Morgan
Savannah Jackson
Sharon Matthews Fortune
Sharelle McNair-Jasper
Shirley Scarborough
Tamela Carrington
Theresa Caldwell
Tony Durham
Torria Burwell
Tracy Booker
Travis Simmons
Tywanda Parker
Valencia Martin
Wanda Miller
Yvonne J. Medley

February 13, 2026

Artist of the Month: Wendell Jones

In honor of Black History Month, the Petersburg Public Library proudly recognizes Wendell Jones as our Artist of the Month. A native son of Petersburg, Virginia, Jones represents the power of self-taught creativity, lived experience, and lifelong artistic exploration.

Born in 1957 in Petersburg, Virginia, Wendell Jones discovered his artistic talent at an early age. While attending Blandford Elementary School, a teacher noticed his gift for drawing and entrusted him with designing classroom and hallway bulletin boards. What began as simple doodles soon evolved into expressive compositions filled with movement, color, and emotion.

Jones continued his education through the Petersburg School System, attending Peabody Junior High School and Petersburg High School. Though his formal education provided structure, it was his life experiences that ultimately shaped his artistic voice.

Over the years, Jones lived in several regions across the United States, each leaving a lasting impression on his work. The vast deserts of Nevada introduced him to bold contrasts and expansive space. The moody, atmospheric landscapes of the Pacific Northwest deepened his appreciation for tone and texture. Meanwhile, the familiar and grounding scenery of Virginia continues to anchor his creative perspective. These varied environments come together in his paintings, reflected through vibrant color palettes, layered abstraction, and emotionally resonant landscapes.

Working primarily in abstract and landscape styles, Jones explores themes of place, memory, and personal connection. His work balances provocation with beauty, encouraging viewers to reflect not only on the physical landscapes before them but also on their own inner terrain. Each piece becomes both a journey and a conversation.

Jones’ creativity extends far beyond the canvas. He is an accomplished cook, skier, sign artist, singer, and master barber and hairstylist. These diverse talents reveal a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and artistry in everyday life. Whether through a painting, a hairstyle, or a shared meal, Jones expresses his belief that creativity is woven into every aspect of human experience.

Above all, he credits his family and friends as his greatest source of inspiration. Their presence grounds his work in authenticity and human connection, reminding us that art is not created in isolation but through lived experience.

During this Black History Month, we celebrate Wendell Jones not only for his artistic achievements but also for his lifelong commitment to creative expression. His journey reminds us that art can be self-discovered, self-defined, and deeply rooted in community.

Visit the Petersburg Public Library to experience Wendell Jones’ work and join us in honoring a local artist whose story reflects both personal resilience and universal beauty.

TO CONTACT WENDELL JONES, CALL: 804-295-3298 OR EMAIL: [email protected]

January 22, 2026

Brushstrokes of Discovery: Where Art, Science, and Community Meet

On display throughout the month of January, Brushstrokes of Discovery is a community art initiative that highlights the relationship between cancer patients and researchers. It also shows how tissue donation supports lifesaving scientific discoveries.

This vibrant, three-panel mural tells the story of cancer research through color, symbolism, and collaboration. Designed by local artists Khalid Thompson, Silly Genius, and Rain Spann, the mural turns complex science into visual storytelling that is easy to understand and deeply human.

Each panel represents a key stage in the research journey:

Facing Cancer
Science at Work
Restoring Tomorrow

Together, the panels show how tumor tissue donation helps move research forward and offers hope for the future.

The project was led by Jennifer Koblinski, Ph.D., a researcher at VCU Massey Comprehensive Cancer Center and associate professor in VCU’s Department of Pathology. It was co-led by Nina Dashti-Gibson, an M.D./Ph.D. candidate in VCU’s School of Medicine.

“Our goal was to honor the contributions patients make through tissue donation,” said Dashti-Gibson. “We also want to show why it is important to collect samples from people of all backgrounds. This work depends on patients. Sharing these discoveries with the community helps people better understand how research leads to progress.”

Brushstrokes of Discovery connects art and science in a way that invites reflection, learning, and conversation. Visitors may have a personal connection to cancer or may simply be curious about the research taking place at Massey. This exhibit creates space for both.

While visiting the exhibit, explore the Petersburg Public Library’s collection of books on health, science, art, and cancer. All are available for checkout!

January 21, 2026

Melba Moore Meet and Greet Recap | Petersburg Public Library

We kicked off 2026 with an unforgettable Meet and Greet featuring Melba Moore at the Petersburg Public Library.

Let’s Talk About the Book

Yes, we read it. Yes, we recommend it. And yes, we have a copy available for checkout.

This Is It… is more than a memoir. It is American history, world history, Black history, and women’s history, all woven through Melba Moore’s extraordinary life and career. The book offers a powerful look at Broadway, resilience, and faith. It invites readers to reflect on their own journey, their purpose, and a question we all eventually ask ourselves: Is this it?

The Petersburg Public Library encourages you to explore this impactful short read and answer that question for yourself.

The Meet and Greet Experience (January 14, 2026)

Petersburg showed up in full support. Guests arrived with CDs, albums, yearbooks, personal stories, and even talents of their own. One standout moment came from local artist Freedom Imani, who delivered a moving vocal tribute. His performance flowed from deep bass baritones to soaring falsettos as he thanked Melba Moore and gave her well-deserved flowers.

The evening opened with a Proclamation from the City of Petersburg, presented by Councilman Myers, former Mayor of Petersburg. Melba Moore was also presented with flowers from the Petersburg Library Foundation. Guests then heard remarks from a member of Melba Moore’s team, followed by an exclusive fireside chat hosted by Wayne Crocker, Director of the Petersburg Public Library.

Audience members were invited to the microphone for a lively Q and A session. Questions ranged from how Melba Moore maintains her physical health and vocal range to reflections on her groundbreaking role in the Broadway production Hair.

A Memorable Start to 2026

The evening concluded with book signings, photos, warm conversations, and plenty of smiles. It was an inspiring start to the new year and a true celebration of legacy, artistry, and community.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and continues to support the Petersburg Public Library and our programs.

December 24, 2025

Winter Wonderland at the Petersburg Public Library | Family Culinary Event

The Petersburg Public Library was excited to welcome families with children for the Second Annual Winter Wonderland Culinary Workshop, transforming the library into a festive space filled with creativity, cooking, and holiday cheer. Designed for children of all ages, the event offered a hands-on experience that celebrated seasonal flavors and meaningful community connection.

Guests explored a variety of interactive edible activity stations that brought winter-themed treats to life. Participants created chocolate marshmallow reindeer, built a cupcake village, mixed Hershey marshmallow peppermint bark, shaped mozzarella snowmen with pretzel brooms, constructed graham cracker houses, molded candy-shaped Krispy treats, enjoyed warm apple cider fizz, and layered colorful winter parfaits. Each activity was simple to follow, engaging, and filled with holiday spirit.

The event was made even more meaningful through the support of community partners and volunteers, including the Virginia Department of Health, Petersburg Department of Parks and Recreation, the YMCA, Read to Them featuring Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, DentaQuest, a Sun Life Company, Aetna, the Community Cares Team, Sentara, the City of Petersburg, HCAT, and the Crater Health District. Their involvement helped promote healthy living, literacy, and family engagement throughout the event.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, dancers performed on stage, bringing energy and excitement to the celebration and delighting guests of all ages.

Winter Wonderland continues to reflect the Petersburg Public Library’s commitment to creativity, literacy, community engagement, and family-centered programming. The event offered families a joyful opportunity to connect, create, and celebrate the season together.