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.

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 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.

December 23, 2025

New Book Release during Friday for the Arts Features Local Author Laurel Charboneau

The Petersburg Public Library welcomed patrons for a special edition of Friday for the Arts, spotlighting local author and historian Laurel Charboneau. Attendees explored Petersburg’s rich history through literature, photography, and shared conversation, reinforcing the library’s role as a cultural and educational gathering space.

Charboneau is the author of Historic Petersburg (Images of America), a compelling visual history documenting the city’s past through carefully curated archival photographs and informative narrative. During the event, visitors engaged with the author, learned about her research process, and gained deeper insight into the stories that have shaped Petersburg over time.

An accompanying exhibit, displayed throughout the library, featured historical images of Petersburg alongside Charboneau’s original artwork, including a collage highlighting businesses that have influenced the city over the past 100-plus years. The display reflects her personal journey of discovery, inspired by questions she encountered while exploring Petersburg’s historic districts. This curiosity led her to conduct independent research and create Historic Petersburg, making the city’s history more accessible for others. Visitors were encouraged to reflect on Petersburg’s evolution and participate in conversations about preservation, identity, and community pride.

This event was proudly sponsored by local Grand Canyon University representative Sannia Hutchinson, who supports access to continuing education opportunities in the community. For more information about continuing education at Grand Canyon University, including Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs, contact Sannia Hutchinson at 804-840-3552 or email [email protected]

Exhibit Dates: December 1 – December 31, 2025
Location: Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, Virginia 23803

For more information or to contact the artist:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 804-712-2586
YouTube: Historic Petersburg Virginia
Instagram: @laurelspetersburgva

Friday for the Arts continues to be one of the library’s most popular monthly experiences, offering residents a chance to engage with local creators, celebrate the arts, and connect with the community. Mark your calendars and bring a friend for an evening of conversation, discovery, and local history.

December 11, 2025

Save the Date: Black Author Expo 2026 Returns to Petersburg Public Library

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

December 10, 2025

Friday for the Arts to Feature Local Author Laurel Charboneau

Friday, December 12, 2025
5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Petersburg Public Library

The Petersburg Public Library will welcome the community for a special Friday for the Arts event featuring local author and history enthusiast Laurel Charboneau. Known for her captivating book Historic Petersburg (Images of America), Charboneau brings the city’s rich history to life through carefully curated photographs and storytelling.

Guests will have the opportunity to meet the author, hear insights about her work, and explore the stories behind the images that shape Petersburg’s past. Charboneau’s passion for local history and her dedication to preserving the city’s heritage make this event a meaningful highlight of the month.

Visitors can also purchase a signed copy of Historic Petersburg, perfect for personal collections or holiday gifts for history enthusiasts.

The event coincides with Laurel Charboneau’s month-long exhibit at the library:

Exhibit Dates: December 1 – December 31, 2025
Location: Petersburg Public Library, 201 W. Washington St., Petersburg, Virginia 23803

For more information or to contact the artist:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 804-712-2586
YouTube: Historic Petersburg Virginia
Instagram: @laurelspetersburgva