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.

As we prepare for an unforgettable evening to celebrate 100 years of service at the Petersburg Public Library, we want to express our gratitude to the incredible sponsors, table supporters, and individual ticket holders who’ve made this milestone event possible. Their dedication and generosity bring our library’s vision to life, ensuring a legacy that will continue for years to come.

Special thanks to our sponsors:

• Signature Sponsors:
  • Enteros Design,
  • Roslyn Farm Corporation,
  • Bon Secours
• Gold Sponsors:
  • Bank of Southside Virginia,
  • City of Petersburg Virginia
• Silver Sponsor: Dominion Energy
• Bronze Sponsor: College of Education at Virginia State University
• Photobooth Sponsor: Fresh Pic Photobooth
• Step and Repeat Banner Sponsor: DW Studioz & Ashland Embroidery

We also extend our appreciation to everyone who purchased tables and individual tickets to our sold out occasion. Your support truly reflects the spirit of our community and makes a direct impact on the programs and services we provide.

Thank you for being a part of this historical occasion with us!

A Symbol of Peace in Our Community

At Petersburg Public Library, we aim to build a community where knowledge and harmony flourish. To celebrate this, we recently dedicated a new Peace Pole in our Rotary Garden. This beautiful symbol reminds us of the importance of peace and unity in our daily lives.

The Event

On September 19, 2024, our community came together in the Rotary Garden for the Peace Pole dedication. It was an afternoon filled with excitement and a shared sense of purpose. The Petersburg Breakfast Rotary Club and library patrons were joined by community leaders and local residents.

The Message of the Peace Pole

The Peace Pole carries the message, “May Peace Prevail on Earth,” written in four languages. Each inscription reflects the diversity of our community and our shared commitment to peace. The pole stands as a reminder that peace begins with each of us.

A Special Moment with Joy Kline

One of the highlights of the event was when Joy Kline proudly received her new Petersburg Public Library card. This simple act emphasized the library’s dedication to being a welcoming place for all members of the community. It was a moment that symbolized the connection between literacy, learning, and peace.

A Lasting Legacy

The Peace Pole is now a permanent part of the Rotary Garden. It invites visitors to reflect on peace and unity every time they see it. We encourage everyone to stop by, enjoy the garden, and see this new addition for themselves.

Conclusion

The dedication of the Peace Pole was a reminder of the strength and unity within our community. We hope this symbol of peace continues to inspire everyone who visits.

Thank you to the Petersburg Breakfast Rotary Club and all who helped make this event a success. Together, we are creating a more peaceful and connected community.

The echoes of literary passion and inspiration still linger in the air following the remarkable 6th Annual Lena Whitt Lecture Series, hosted at the Petersburg Public Library. This year’s event was truly extraordinary, featuring the esteemed best-selling author S. A. Cosby. Let’s delve into the highlights and profound moments that made this event truly unforgettable.

Engaging with a Master Storyteller:
From the moment S. A. Cosby arrived, his passion for storytelling was tangible. Sharing personal anecdotes about his beloved 1976 Oldsmobile Cutlass and his lifelong love affair with cars, it became clear that his creativity extended far beyond his novels. When he took the stage, Cosby’s down-to-earth demeanor and magnetic presence immediately captivated the audience. With eloquence and sincerity, he shared insights into his motivations, passions, and experiences that have shaped his journey as a storyteller.

Exploring the Depths of Crime Fiction:
Crime fiction enthusiasts and literary aficionados were treated to a thought-provoking exploration of the genre’s nuances and storytelling techniques. Cosby’s ability to weave gripping narratives, complex characters, and atmospheric settings was on full display, offering a glimpse into the artistry behind his acclaimed works. Each aspect of his storytelling, from thrilling plot twists to poignant introspection, resonated deeply with the audience.

Inspiring Dialogue and Connection:
The opportunity for attendees to engage directly with S. A. Cosby during the Q&A session was a highlight of the evening. From aspiring writers seeking advice to avid readers eager to delve deeper into the author’s creative process, the dialogue was rich with curiosity and insight. Cosby’s genuine warmth and generosity in sharing his experiences left a lasting impact, inspiring all present to embrace their creative journeys with passion and authenticity.

Celebrating Literature and Community:
The 6th Annual Lena Whitt Lecture Series served as a powerful reminder of the enduring importance of literature in our lives and communities. Through events like these, we come together to celebrate the beauty of storytelling, the power of language, and the richness of cultural exchange. As we reflect on the evening’s festivities, we are reminded of the profound connections that literature fosters and its transformative impact on our shared human experience.

Conclusion:
As we bid farewell to another unforgettable installment of the Lena Whitt Lecture Series, we carry with us the lasting impressions left by S. A. Cosby’s remarkable presence and storytelling prowess. From his engaging anecdotes to his captivating dialogue, Cosby’s passion for storytelling shone brightly throughout the evening. Reflecting on the insights shared and connections forged, we are reminded of the enduring power of literature to inspire, unite, and enrich our lives. The Lena Whitt Lecture Series continues to be a beacon of literary excellence and community engagement, inviting us to celebrate the beauty of storytelling and the boundless possibilities of the human imagination. Here’s to many more moments of inspiration and discovery in the pages of the books we love and the stories we share.