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The Petersburg Public Library is excited to announce the return of the Black Author Expo on Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 1 PM to 4 PM in our Conference and Event Center. After a record-breaking year in 2025, the Expo is already shaping up to be one of Virginia’s most anticipated celebrations of Black literature.

Interest in this year’s event has been overwhelming. A total of 77 Black authors have already registered to participate, along with one featured award-winning author. Because of this strong response and limited space, author registration is now closed.

Held during Black History Month, the Black Author Expo brings together readers, writers, and community members to celebrate Black voices and storytelling. Families, book lovers, and literary enthusiasts gather for an afternoon filled with culture, creativity, and connection. The event continues to uplift Black authors while encouraging meaningful conversations around literature and representation.

Attendees can expect a vibrant experience featuring authors from many genres, including children’s books, poetry, self-help, faith-based writing, memoirs, and fiction. Guests will have the opportunity to browse author tables, purchase books, meet writers, and enjoy personal conversations about the creative process.

The Petersburg Public Library is proud to host the Black Author Expo in partnership with Resist Booksellers, a Black-owned independent bookstore in Petersburg known for championing diverse voices and community engagement.

With all author spots filled for 2026, submissions are now closed. Authors interested in future events are encouraged to follow the Petersburg Public Library for updates and upcoming opportunities.

The Black Author Expo is a free, public event. The Library remains committed to making literacy, culture, and diverse stories accessible to everyone. Over the years, the Expo has grown into a signature community event, drawing hundreds of attendees and spotlighting authors whose work informs, inspires, and empowers.

For more than 100 years, the Petersburg Public Library has served as a pillar of the community. From navigating segregation and desegregation to expanding inclusive programming today, the library continues to honor its past while building a stronger future. Events like the Black Author Expo reflect this ongoing commitment to literacy, creativity, and community connection.

Mark Your Calendar

• Date: Saturday, February 28, 2026

• Time: 1 PM to 4 PM

• Location: Petersburg Public Library Conference and Event Center
  201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, VA 23803

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October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a time to honor those affected, raise awareness, and promote early detection and prevention. At the Petersburg Public Library, we are committed to supporting our community with reliable health information and resources.

Did you know that your library card opens the door to a wealth of resources about breast cancer prevention, treatment options, wellness, and survivorship? From books to online databases, our collection is designed to help you make informed decisions and support your loved ones.

Here are some ways the library can help you this month:

• Books and eBooks: Explore titles on breast cancer awareness, nutrition, exercise, mental health, and survivor stories.

• Workshops and Programs: Attend community sessions focused on health education and wellness strategies.

• Online Resources: Access reputable databases and guides for research on treatment options and preventive care.

• Support and Information: Connect with local health organizations and programs through our library network.

Empower yourself and your community by taking advantage of these free resources. Knowledge is one of the strongest tools in the fight against breast cancer, and the Petersburg Public Library is here to guide you every step of the way.

Visit us today to browse our collection, attend a program, or access trusted online resources. On your way out, don’t forget to stop by our Market to pick up fresh, nutrient-rich foods. Eating your breast cancer fighting foods as medicine is another way to take control of your health while supporting your wellness journey.

Together, we can raise awareness, educate, and support one another this Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

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July to October 2025

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

1. Get a library card.

2. Pick up an official Adult Book Challenge punch card at the front desk.

3. Check out three or more books to receive a stamp on your punch card.

4. 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

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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.

Hope to see you soon!

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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.

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The holiday season is often associated with joy, togetherness, and celebration. But for many, it can also bring feelings of loneliness, stress, or sadness. Whether you’re navigating a tough time or simply seeking a sense of comfort, books can be a powerful ally in lifting your spirits and helping you feel connected. Here at Petersburg Public Library, we’re here to support you through the season with resources and recommendations to brighten your days.

Why Do the Holidays Feel Difficult?

The holidays can amplify emotions, especially if you’re missing loved ones, dealing with financial stress, or feeling disconnected from the hustle and bustle around you. It’s okay to acknowledge these feelings and seek healthy ways to cope. One such way is by turning to the pages of a good book. Reading offers more than just entertainment; it provides an escape, inspiration, and sometimes the connection you didn’t realize you needed.

How Reading Can Help

Books have a unique ability to transport us to other worlds, introduce us to inspiring characters, and provide insights that resonate deeply with our own experiences. Here are some ways reading can help ease loneliness and depression:

• Escape from Stress: A captivating novel can whisk you away from daily worries, giving your mind a break and helping you recharge.
• Find Connection: Memoirs and personal stories can remind you that you’re not alone in your struggles and that others have faced and overcome similar challenges.
• Boost Your Mood: Uplifting genres like humor, romance, or adventure can bring moments of joy and laughter.
• Learn Coping Strategies: Self-help books and guides offer practical tips for managing emotions and building resilience.

Tips for Finding the Right Book

Not sure where to start? Here are some suggestions:

• Seek Comfort Reads: Revisit a favorite book from your past or choose something lighthearted and heartwarming.
• Try Something New: Explore a genre you haven’t read before. Fantasy, mystery, or historical fiction might surprise you.
• Connect Through Characters: Look for stories with relatable characters or themes that speak to your current feelings.
• Ask for Recommendations: Our library staff is here to help you find the perfect book for your mood and interests.

Additional Resources at the Library

Beyond books, the library offers a variety of resources to help you navigate the season:

• Community Events: Join us for workshops, book clubs, or holiday programs to connect with others in a welcoming space.
• Quiet Spaces: Spend time in a peaceful corner of the library to read, reflect, or simply take a break from the holiday rush.
• Digital Resources: Access eBooks, audiobooks, and more from the comfort of your home through our digital library services. Whether you’re cozy at home or on the go, apps like Libby and Hoopla give you easy access to a vast collection of digital books and audiobooks, providing a seamless reading experience. With these apps, you can borrow books from our digital collection at any time, making it easy to find comfort wherever you are.

Take Care of Yourself This Holiday Season

Remember, it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Whether you’re spending the holidays with others or on your own, finding comfort in a good book can make all the difference. Let the library be your companion during this season and beyond.

Stop by Petersburg Public Library or visit us online to discover books and resources that can brighten your holidays. We’re here to support you every step of the way. From all of us, we wish you a season of peace, warmth, and new beginnings.

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