Need some motivation to read more books? The Petersburg Public Library’s Adult Book Challenge invites readers 18 and older to check out books, explore new genres, and earn a chance to win exciting prizes.
Whether you prefer fiction, nonfiction, audiobooks, or graphic novels, every checkout brings you closer to winning.
Major Prizes Include
Gas gift cards
Dinner for two (valued at $75)
Massage gift cards
Cash gift cards
Tickets to Swaders Sports Park
How to Participate
Get a library card.
Pick up an official Adult Book Challenge punch card at the front desk.
Check out three or more books to receive a stamp on your punch card.
For every stamp you earn, your receipt goes into the prize drawing bag of your choice.
Challenge Rules
Participants must be 18 years of age or older
A valid Petersburg Public Library card is required
One stamp is awarded per checkout of three or more books
More checkouts mean more stamps and more chances to win
Eligible Reading Formats
This challenge includes a wide variety of materials:
Books on CD
Electronic reads through apps like Hoopla and Libby
Graphic novels
New arrivals
Fiction and nonfiction
Biographies
Financial literacy titles
The more you read, the more chances you have to win. Join the challenge, explore the collection, and reward yourself through the joy of reading.
Petersburg Public Library 201 W. Washington Street Petersburg, Virginia 23803 804-733-2387
Step into the abstract, panoramic worldview of Dolly Holmes. Her exhibition Horizon/tal is on display for the month of July in the Library Gallery.
Since the early 2000s, Holmes has explored wide rectangular forms in her work, evoking panoramic landscapes, reclining figures, and a sense of continuity beyond the edge of the canvas. Her abstract panels use color and form to translate thought and emotion into visual experiences. In her words, “In a world that constantly urges us to speed up, this work serves as a reminder to slow down and embrace the beauty within.”
Holmes is a painter and graphic designer based in Petersburg. Educated at The Cooper Union and Hunter College in New York, she credits early American modernists such as Marsden Hartley, John Marin, and Arthur Dove as mentors. Since moving to Old Towne Petersburg in 1997, she has exhibited nationally, including at the Painting Center in New York, Perspective Gallery at Virginia Tech, and locally at the Walton Gallery and Sol Cooper Gallery.
In addition to her studio work, Dolly designed the historical timeline that is permanently installed in the Rotunda of the Petersburg Public Library. This installation reflects her ongoing fascination with wide rectangular compositions.
Horizon/tal is open to the public during regular library hours through July 31, 2025.
To learn more about the artist and view additional works, visit dolmarva.com/dh.
Exhibit Dates: July 01 – July 31, 2025
Location: Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St. Petersburg, Virginia 23803
Food in our POP (Petersburg Offers Produce) Market Open Monday-Thursday 12:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Sometimes when life feels overwhelming, the mind can get stuck in a loop—worry, stress, and even overthinking. It’s easy to become consumed by our own thoughts.
Reading helps us to break that cycle. Books introduce new ideas, different perspectives, and reminders that we’re not alone. They help us get out of our heads, tap into our imagination, inspire faith, and move us toward action and growth.
At Petersburg Public Library, we believe in the power of stories and information to support wellness from every angle. That’s why we’ve created a special book display in honor of Mental Health Awareness Month. This curated collection includes titles that focus on:
Managing anxiety and stress
Building better habits
Improving financial well-being
Eating for mental health
Practicing mindfulness and self-care
We invite you to stop by and explore the shelf. You might find just the right book to spark a shift in perspective or guide you through a challenge.
Why a Physical Book? There’s something deeply soothing about reading a physical book. The feel of the pages, the rhythm of turning them, the absence of screen-based distractions—it all helps you slow down and be present. That tactile experience can create a sense of calm, reduce digital fatigue, and improve focus, especially when the mind feels scattered.
Reading isn’t just a leisure activity—it’s an act of self-care. Whether you’re diving into fiction, exploring a self-help guide, or learning a new skill, books have a way of meeting us where we are and gently helping us grow.
Come Visit Us The Petersburg Public Library is here for you. Whether you’re looking for resources to support your mental health or simply want to enjoy a quiet moment with a good book, our doors are open. Sometimes, the right book really is the first step toward change or simply mental health.
On April 5, 2025, the Petersburg Public Library was buzzing with energy as hundreds of book lovers, community members, and aspiring writers gathered for the Black Author’s Book Signing Expo — now recognized as Virginia’s largest free Black author-centered event.
“It was an awesome experience with a good vibe and good energy,” said Edward Goode.
“It felt really good to be in the presence of such empowered, successful, intelligent Black creativity in the room. So to be in that number was a privilege,” said Nekondeh McClain.
Held in partnership with Resist Booksellers, a Black-owned independent bookstore right here in Petersburg, Virginia, the Expo welcomed more than 40 Black authors from across the region. The genres were as diverse as the voices behind them — from children’s books, poetry, self-help, faith, and fiction — each table offered something unique, authentic, and inspiring.
The Flow of the Day
The day kicked off with a warm welcome from Library Director Wayne Crocker, who set the tone for what would become a celebration of literature, legacy, and Black excellence. One of the event’s most memorable moments followed: a powerful on-stage interview between Demetrius Frazier, owner of Resist Booksellers, and Tanya Batlle, co-author of Lipstick and Legacies.
Their conversation wasn’t just about books — it was about impact. Tanya encouraged attendees to think deeply about what it means to leave a legacy — urging everyone to consider creating a Will or Trust to protect and provide for loved ones. It was a reminder that storytelling takes many forms — written, spoken, and lived.
Authors Made Real Connections — and Sales!
Feedback from participating authors was overwhelmingly positive. Nearly all reported strong book sales and meaningful conversations. One author shared that they brought 35 books to the event and went home with only 4 or 5 left.
“This event exceeded my expectations,” another author said. “It wasn’t just about the sales — it was about connecting with readers who genuinely cared about my work.”
In a meaningful show of support, the Petersburg Public Library also purchased a book from every author in attendance, further demonstrating its commitment to uplifting diverse literary voices and building a collection that reflects the community it serves.
Providing a Platform to Share
A signature feature of the Expo was a segment where each author was invited to the microphone to share a brief introduction to their work and journey. While a few guests mentioned it took time away from browsing, most attendees chose to pause, listen, and lean into the stories being shared.
All of these moments helped build an unspoken sense of community — a shared space between authors, readers, and lovers of culture. It was one of those experiences where you just had to be there to fully understand the energy in the room.
“It really speaks to the power of storytelling,” said Raleigh Desper, Marketing Specialist at the Petersburg Public Library. “Even with the freedom to explore, people paused to listen as each author took the mic — that shows just how strong the connection was between the writers and the audience.
What Visitors Had to Say
The heart of the Expo was reflected not just in the books on display, but in the voices of those who wrote them. Here are just a few reflections from the day:
“This has been a great day. There are so many authors here. It’s been fun hearing where their books come from.” – Shirley Scarborough, Shattered, But Not Destroyed
“I sold a lot of books and got to speak about what I do. It was wonderful to be surrounded by amazing Black authors.” – Winifred Summer, first-time attendee
“The stories I heard today were so inspiring. I hope to stay in touch with a lot of the authors I met.” – Brianna Galloway, Inevitable Abortion: A Memoir
“Today was nothing less than stellar. Every story had its own DNA. The planning committee did an amazing job.” – Sharon Oliver, CEO Publishing
“It was a beautiful day. I hope people continue to support Black authors and let the next generation know there’s a place for them.” – Anonymous Attendee
A Free, Inclusive Celebration of Black Literature
What makes the Black Author Expo especially noteworthy is its commitment to being completely free — not just for attendees, but for authors, too. In a time when many literary events charge authors to participate, the Petersburg Public Library has created a space rooted in accessibility, equity, and celebration.
The event continues to build on the library’s long-standing mission to uplift diverse voices and promote literacy. As the Petersburg Public Library proudly celebrated its 100-year anniversary in 2024, this year’s Expo was yet another shining example of that legacy in action.
Demetrius Frazier, founder of Resist Booksellers
Tanya Battle, Senior Vice President of C&F Wealth Management
Meeting new people
Brianna Galloway
Denise LaJuan Peters
Daniel Smith
Danielle Bell
Christine Carmichael
Dr. Cecilia Brooks
Christina Neale (CN Graphics)
Virgil Thornton
Elizabeth Willis
Jamice Lee
Linnea Blizzard
Mary Day Simms
Jodaea Minor-White
Winifred Summer
J.T. Terry
Edward Goode
Dr. Tia Palmer
Tonya Fullerwinder
Video Guest Book: https://imlstudios.co/videoguestbook
Elizabeth Willis
Dawnyshia Griffin
Tywanda Parker
Dr. Shedrick McCall
Theresa Caldwell with Samuel Griffin III
Richard Spencer
Brian Johnson
Barry Beck
Brian Johnson
Brianna Galloway
Winifred Summer
Dr. Cecilia Brooks
Christina Neale (CN Graphics)
Edward Goode
Danielle Bell
Daniel Smith
Christine Carmichael
Jamice Lee
Jodaea Minor-White
J.T. Terry
Linnea Blizzard
Lisa Winfield
Healing Angel
Dr. Marcia Stewart
Myeisha Hamilton
Dr. Nashayla Nelson
Nekondeh McClain
Shirley Scarborough
Dr. Tia Palmer
Virgil Thornton
Tonya Fullerwinder
Wayne Crocker, Director of Petersburg Public Library
A Celebration of Black Literary Excellence and Storytelling
The Petersburg Public Library is excited to announce the Black Author’s Book Signing Expo, now rescheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 1 PM to 4 PM. Originally set for February, the new date ensures an even better experience for authors and attendees alike, making space for an even greater literary celebration!
Despite the change in schedule, enthusiasm for the event has only grown, with 43 authors confirmed to participate this year. This overwhelming response highlights the importance of the Expo as a platform for Black literary excellence, community engagement, and powerful storytelling.
Partnering with Resist Booksellers
The Petersburg Public Library is proud to partner with Resist Booksellers, a Black-owned independent bookstore dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices. Their expertise and passion for diverse literature will enhance the Expo, ensuring a dynamic and enriching experience for all attendees.
Why You Should Attend
Join us for an afternoon dedicated to celebrating Black literature and culture! The Black Author’s Book Signing Expo is your opportunity to:
Meet and support over 30 talented Black authors from various genres
Get your favorite books signed and discover new must-reads
Hear powerful stories and insights directly from the authors
Engage in a vibrant literary experience with fellow book lovers, storytellers, and the community
Whether you’re an avid reader, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who loves a good story, this event promises to be a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025
Time: 1 PM – 4 PM
Location: Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803
About Petersburg Public Library
Celebrating 100 years of service, the Petersburg Public Library is committed to fostering literacy, creativity, and community engagement through innovative programs and resources. The Black Author’s Book Signing Expo reflects our mission to support diverse voices and create platforms for meaningful storytelling.
About Resist Booksellers
Resist Booksellers is a Black-owned independent bookstore dedicated to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering important conversations around literature and culture. Learn more at Resist Booksellers.
We look forward to celebrating Black literary excellence with you!
For More Information
For media inquiries or sponsorship opportunities, please contact:
Did you know? In the 2023–2024 school year, 73% of students across Virginia passed the state reading test. However, in the city of Petersburg, only 43% of students met this benchmark.
This means more than half of our students in Petersburg are struggling with reading proficiency—a fundamental skill that impacts every area of life. Literacy isn’t just about books; it’s about creating opportunities, fostering critical thinking, and empowering individuals to succeed in school, their careers, and the community.
These numbers highlight the urgent need for action. But together, we can bridge this gap. Here’s how we can make a difference:
Commit to reading: Pledge to check out at least one new book from the library this year. Whether it’s for personal growth, entertainment, or sharing with a child, every book makes an impact.
Support young readers: Encourage children to read regularly by bringing them to the library, attending storytimes, or exploring books tailored to their interests.
Join the movement: Participate in literacy events and programs designed to uplift our community.
Every page we turn brings us closer to building a more literate Petersburg. Let’s make reading a cornerstone of our community’s success.
What’s Happening at the Library
The Petersburg Public Library is more than books—it’s a hub for growth, learning, and connection. Here are just a few of the exciting programs and events we have planned:
New Technology: Discover upgraded tools and resources available to our library visitors.
Basic Computer Classes: Learn Microsoft 365 Office and enhance your digital skills.
Weekly Exercise Classes: Stay active while staying informed.
Community Events: Don’t miss our Black Author Book Signing Expo on April 05, 2025.
Reflecting on Dr. King’s Legacy
This month, as we honor Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, we’re reminded of his profound insights into education and its role in shaping society. In his 1947 essay The Purpose of Education, Dr. King wrote:
“The function of education, therefore, is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. But education which stops with efficiency may prove the greatest menace to society. … Intelligence plus character—that is the goal of true education.”
These words resonate deeply as we strive to empower our community through literacy. Reading is not just about acquiring knowledge; it’s about developing empathy, wisdom, and the moral character needed to build a better future.
Join Us in 2025
This year, let’s work together to strengthen our reading culture and close the literacy gap in Petersburg. Visit the library, explore our new books, and get involved in programs that inspire growth and connection. Every small step—every book borrowed, every story shared—brings us closer to a brighter future for everyone in our community.
Stop by the library today or explore all we have to offer online. Let’s turn the page toward a stronger Petersburg!
The Petersburg Public Library is sparkling with holiday cheer as part of the inaugural Petersburg Trees of Christmas Festival, a community-wide celebration of creativity and holiday spirit. Sponsored by Main Street Petersburg Inc., this event invites businesses and organizations to decorate Christmas trees and participate in a friendly contest to spread festive joy.
This year, the library has joined the festivities with beautifully decorated trees that reflect the holiday magic and the spirit of literacy. While you visit, take a moment to explore these stunning creations and support your favorite trees by participating in the event’s social media scavenger hunt:
Take a selfie with the library’s Christmas trees.
Post the photo on your social media account.
Tag the Petersburg Public Library and use the hashtag #Pburgxmastreefest2024 to cast your vote.
Participants who snap selfies with all the trees across the city will win custom prizes, and winners in the “Best Business Christmas Tree” and “Best Nonprofit Christmas Tree” categories will be announced on December 27.
By visiting the Petersburg Public Library, you’re not only embracing the holiday spirit but also celebrating 100 years of community and literacy. Come see how the library is making the holidays brighter for everyone!
Yesterday (11-25-2024), the Petersburg Public Library hosted Sharing a Harvest, an event led by our new Healthy Community Action Team (HCAT) Coordinator Ruth Frierson. The event was a wonderful blend of community engagement, education, and support, offering a food demonstration, taste testing, and a fresh produce giveaway.
A Look at HCAT’s Mission and Vision
HCAT is a local initiative dedicated to advancing children’s health by ensuring consistent access to fruits and vegetables. Through interactive activities, HCAT engages children, youth, and families to inspire healthier choices. Their programs include:
Food demonstrations and taste testing.
Promoting Farm-2-School activities.
Establishing Learning Gardens to teach sustainable practices.
Increasing access to fresh produce in the community.
HCAT’s ultimate goal is to cultivate a coalition of partners to create a thriving, healthy Petersburg.
Event Highlights
At Sharing a Harvest, attendees explored new ways to prepare seasonal produce with recipes highlighting sweet potatoes, carrots, and collard greens. On the menu were these fresh ingredients, creatively prepared for everyone to sample.
The first 50 children who participated in the taste testing received a bag of ingredients to take home, including everything needed to practice the recipes at home. This hands-on opportunity allowed families to extend the lessons learned during the demonstration into their own kitchens.
Get Involved with HCAT
HCAT holds quarterly partnership meetings on the third Tuesday. These gatherings are an excellent opportunity for community members and organizations to collaborate and further their shared mission. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or community leader, HCAT welcomes your partnership.
Together, we can continue building a healthier Petersburg, one fresh meal at a time.
Petersburg, Virginia, is fast becoming a major player in the world of pharmaceutical manufacturing, thanks to strategic partnerships and dedicated efforts to spur growth and innovation. This transformation is powered by the collaborative work of organizations such as the Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity and the Partnership for Petersburg, as well as the Alliance for Building Better Medicine. Together, they are helping to reshape the city’s future, creating opportunities for both small businesses and large-scale pharmaceutical ventures.
In our latest video, we explore how Petersburg is taking strides in this exciting field. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how the city is positioning itself as a leader in the pharmaceutical sector and learn about the resources available for local entrepreneurs and businesses to thrive.
Small Businesses, Big Dreams
Through partnerships like these, Petersburg is not just fostering innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, but also supporting the growth of small businesses. As part of the #SmallBusinessBigDreams initiative, the city offers valuable resources and guidance to help local entrepreneurs succeed in this rapidly expanding field. This aligns with the overall mission of the Partnership for Petersburg, which aims to enhance the city’s economic development and create lasting opportunities for its residents.
Join the Movement
The exciting developments happening in Petersburg are just the beginning. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to grow, or someone interested in the future of pharmaceutical manufacturing, there are countless ways to get involved. Explore these initiatives and see how you can contribute to this growing movement that’s reshaping Petersburg’s economy and future.
Stay Connected
For more updates on this and other exciting developments in Petersburg, follow us on social media and stay tuned for future content
This summer, the Petersburg Public Library was buzzing with excitement and discovery as we hosted the 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy. Designed for 7–9-year-old students recommended by Petersburg Public Schools, the program combined innovative lessons with the engaging atmosphere of a summer camp. The S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy was more than just a summer program; it was a hub of learning, creativity, and fun that left a lasting impact on our young participants.
What is the S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy?
The S.T.R.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, Math) Academy is a unique literacy program that integrates the Virginia Standards of Learning in Reading and Math into daily activities. With the support of certified teachers and our Youth Services Librarian, the Academy focused on delivering an interactive and educational experience that fostered both academic and personal growth.
Highlights of the Summer Program
The 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy was packed with activities that not only stimulated the minds of our students but also equipped them with valuable life skills. Here are some of the key activities and events that took place:
Lunch and Learn Presentations: Students enjoyed engaging presentations during lunch, where professionals from various fields shared their experiences and insights into S.T.R.E.A.M.-related careers.
S.T.R.E.A.M Career Information Sessions: These sessions provided students with a glimpse into a wide range of careers, from veterinarians and engineers to artists and software developers.
Daily Living Skills: The Academy emphasized practical skills, teaching students essential daily living activities that they can carry forward into their lives.
Financial Literacy Sessions: Understanding money management is crucial, and our financial literacy sessions introduced students to basic concepts of saving, budgeting, and financial planning.
Daily Journal Writing: Encouraging creativity and reflection, students kept daily journals, allowing them to express their thoughts and track their learning progress throughout the program.
Book Writing and Publishing Project: One of the standout projects was our book writing and publishing initiative, where students collaborated to create and publish their own stories.
Field Trips: Fridays were dedicated to field trips, where students could explore the world outside the classroom and see real-world applications of what they learned during the week.
Vocabulary “Word of the Day” Activities: Every day, students expanded their vocabulary with fun and interactive “Word of the Day” activities, enhancing their language skills.
A Bright Future Ahead
The success of the 2024 S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy at Petersburg Public Library is a testament to the power of innovative education and community support. We are proud of the achievements of our young participants and look forward to seeing how they apply the knowledge and skills they’ve gained in the years to come.
Thank you to our certified teachers, the Youth Services Librarian, and everyone who contributed to making this summer one to remember. We also extend our gratitude to the parents and families for their support and to the students for their enthusiasm and dedication.
As we look ahead to next summer, we are excited to continue offering enriching programs like the S.T.R.E.A.M. Academy. Stay tuned for more information on our upcoming events and how you can get involved.
The Petersburg Public Library is sparkling with holiday cheer as part of the inaugural Petersburg Trees of Christmas Festival, a community-wide celebration of creativity and holiday spirit. Sponsored by Main Street Petersburg Inc., this event invites businesses and organizations to decorate Christmas trees and participate in a friendly contest to spread festive joy.
