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!

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.

December 10, 2025

Winter Wonderland Culinary Workshop Brings Holiday Fun to Petersburg Public Library

The Petersburg Public Library is excited to welcome families for the Second Annual Winter Wonderland Culinary Workshop. This festive event will transform the library into a cheerful space filled with creativity, cooking, and holiday magic.

Designed for children, caregivers, and holiday lovers of all ages, the workshop will offer a hands-on experience that celebrates seasonal flavors and the joy of being together. Guests will be invited to explore a series of edible activity stations that encourage imagination and bring winter themed treats to life.

Participants will have the chance to create chocolate marshmallow reindeer, build a cupcake village, and mix up Hershey marshmallow peppermint bark. Additional stations will guide guests as they shape mozzarella snowmen with pretzel brooms, construct graham cracker houses, mold candy shaped krispy treats, enjoy warm apple cider fizz, and layer colorful winter parfaits. Each activity will be simple to follow, engaging, and filled with holiday cheer.

Beyond the culinary fun, Winter Wonderland will include refreshments, lively music, and a cozy storytime read aloud that enhances the seasonal atmosphere. Families can expect smiles, laughter, and memorable moments throughout the entire workshop.

This annual celebration continues to highlight the library’s commitment to creativity, community, and the joy of making something special together. Bring your family, your imagination, and your holiday spirit to this wonderful December event.

Early Admission for Daycares at 1:30 PM
Open to Everyone from 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Takes place December 15, 2025

October 1, 2025

October at the Library: Honoring Creativity and Heritage

October brings cooler days, new beginnings, and opportunities to celebrate what unites us. In Petersburg, this month is especially bright because it marks the 10th anniversary of artoberVA. For a decade, artoberVA has highlighted the artists, organizations, and communities that make our region thrive.

For ten years, artoberVA has shown that creativity is more than self-expression. It is a way to connect with others. Whether you are exploring a new gallery, attending a live performance, or enjoying a community event, artoberVA reminds us that art can inspire hope, spark conversation, and strengthen our communities.

This October also invites us to reflect on Indigenous Peoples’ Day on Monday, October 14. It is a day to honor the resilience, history, and contributions of Native peoples. By learning, listening, and engaging with these stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the past and a stronger commitment to an inclusive future.

The Petersburg Public Library is not just a place for books. We are a community resource, a space to preserve culture and history, and, like art, a place where knowledge and imagination help us grow, build resilience, and feel empowered.

Celebrate with us this October:

Join us during Friday for the Arts and meet the artist Tahanie Medina, our October Artist of the Month. Her work explores themes of unity and connection. This event will take place on October 10, 2025, from 5 PM – 7 PM.
Attend the 4th Annual Artoberfest at the Petersburg Harbor on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 3 PM – 7 PM. This free community event features music, art, and local talent.

This October, let us honor the stories that shaped us and celebrate the creativity that carries us forward. Together, we can make this season one of reflection, inspiration, and connection.

Tahanie - Official Flyer-Friday for the Arts

February 16, 2025

A Conversation with Jerome W. Jones, Jr.: Art, Legacy, and Inspiration

The Petersburg Public Library is honored to showcase the art of Jerome W. Jones, Jr., a painter whose work bridges history, culture, and personal storytelling. We had the privilege of sitting down with Mr. Jones to discuss his artistic journey, the power of portraiture, and his deep connection to the subjects he paints.

The Artist’s Path

Growing up in Richmond, Jones began painting at just three years old. Encouraged by his family, he pursued his passion, eventually earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. “Art has always been my calling,” he shares. “My mother gave me my first paintbrush, and I’ve never put it down.”

His early inspiration? Volkswagen Beetles. “I used to draw them everywhere,” he laughs. “But as I grew, I found my passion for capturing people—their stories, their essence.”

Portraits That Tell a Story

Jones’ latest exhibit features three notable portraits: Frank Mason III, Dr. Wyatt T. Walker, and Roy Moore, Jr. Each painting tells a unique story of perseverance, activism, and historical impact. Dr. Walker’s piece, in particular, holds special significance for Jones. “When I met Dr. Walker, he told me he had taken the famous photo of Dr. King in the Birmingham jail. That connection—between art, history, and lived experience—means everything to me.”

Honoring Unsung Heroes

Beyond well-known figures, Jones also dedicates his work to honoring local heroes. “So many people have made incredible contributions, and their stories deserve to be told,” he explains. One of his most recent works honors Roy Moore, Jr., a Buffalo Soldier historian from Petersburg. “I wanted to give him his flowers while he’s still here to see it,” Jones says. “Art is my way of saying thank you.”

The Universal Language of Art

Jones believes in making art accessible to all. “Not everyone visits galleries or museums,” he notes. “So I bring the art to the people—libraries, schools, community centers. Art should be for everyone.”

When asked what keeps him painting after four decades, his answer is simple: “Love. Faith, family, and the love of art. I’ll keep painting as long as I have breath.”

Experience the Exhibit & Share Your Thoughts

This exhibit is more than just a collection of paintings—it’s a journey through history, culture, and personal connections. Visitors are encouraged to reflect on the stories behind the artwork and share their thoughts on social media using #petersburgpubliclibrary

The exhibit is on display for a limited time only in celebration of Black History Month. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the artistry of Jerome W. Jones, Jr. and immerse yourself in the powerful narratives his portraits convey. We look forward to seeing you there!

August 29, 2024

The Man Behind the Band: Interview with The Dap Mallory Band

In the heart of Petersburg, Virginia, where music and community blend seamlessly, we had the incredible opportunity to sit down with the Dap Mallory Band for an exclusive interview. This engaging conversation, recorded live at the Petersburg Public Library’s Conference & Event Center, offers a unique glimpse into the world of one of today’s most compelling cover bands.

Our interview delves deep into the story of the Dap Mallory Band, focusing on the person who stands at the helm of this dynamic group. Known for their soulful sound and captivating performances, the band’s journey is as fascinating as their music. In this special feature, we explore the experiences, inspirations, and personal anecdotes that define the essence of the Dap Mallory Band.

The Petersburg Public Library’s Jazz in the Stacks event provided the perfect backdrop for this insightful conversation. The library, a cornerstone of the community, symbolizes the intersection of culture and accessibility, making it a fitting venue for our discussion with the Dap Mallory Band. We talk about how performing in such a venue influences their music and the band’s deep connection to the Petersburg community.

We invite you to watch this exclusive interview to fully appreciate the depth of the Dap Mallory Band. Their story is one of dedication and a profound connection to the community that supports them.