The Seattle Public Library

Seattle Biblio Café

Fri, 27 Aug 2010 08:30:00 PDT

Listen in while librarians talk about books on a coffee break. A quick and easy way to hear about some good books to read.

Heart and Soul of Mexico

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 10:30:00 PDT

The musicians of La Mariachi Mexico performed familiar songs on a variety of authentic instruments on Aug. 1, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Rafe Esquith: 'Lighting Their Fires'

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 09:00:00 PDT

Award-winning teacher Rafe Esquith discusses his latest book, "Lighting Their Fires," on August 5, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

David Herlihy: 'The Lost Cyclist'

Thu, 5 Aug 2010 11:00:00 PDT

David Herlihy read from his new book, "The Lost Cyclist," on July 20, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Science Friction: The Science of 'Avatar'

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 11:00:00 PDT

Listen to scientists discuss real research frontiers touched by the hit movie 'Avatar' at this interactive event held at The Seattle Public Library on July 18, 2010.

Brian Waite Band: '20,000 Volts Under the Sea'

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 11:00:00 PDT

Sing, dance and laugh with the Brian Waite Band. This deep-sea, rock musical recorded on July 8, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library is fun for the whole family and filled with interactive games, zany characters and great live music.

David Wright: 'Thrilling Tales'

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Listen to "Thrilling Tales," a story time for grown-ups, recorded on June 21, 2010 at the Central Library.

Bob Rosner: 'Boss Better'

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 13:00:00 PDT

For many, "boss" has become a four letter word. Facilitated by Bob Rosner on June 16, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library, this interactive session outlines the key strategies to becoming the kind of boss that people actually want to work for.

'The User Experience in the 21st Century Library'

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 09:30:00 PDT

Listen to a panel discussion that focused on the user experience in the 21st century library recorded on June 12, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Jonathan Alter: 'The Promise: President Obama, Year One'

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 15:30:00 PDT

Award-winning columnist, television analyst, and author Jonathan Alter read from his latest book, "The Promise," the first book written about President Obama since he took the oath of office on June 10, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Bob Rosner: 'Work Smarter'

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 10:00:00 PDT

People are scared about being laid off. Work is tougher than it's ever been. Facilitated by Bob Rosner on June 9, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library, this interactive session covers the keys to being successful in today's turbulent workplace.

Bob Rosner: 'Create A Career'

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 11:00:00 PDT

Many people who are unemployed have lost hope trying to find a job. This interactive session, facilitated by Bob Rosner on June 2, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library, outlines the key strategies required to be successful in finding employment today.

Jack and Suzy Welch: '10-10-10'

Mon, 7 Jun 2010 14:00:00 PDT

Jack and Suzy Welch discussed Suzy's new book, "10-10-10: A Fast and Powerful Way to Get Unstuck in Love, at Work, and at Home" on May 19, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Thrilling Tales'

Tue, 25 May 2010 08:30:00 PDT

Listen to "Thrilling Tales," a story time for grown-ups, recorded on May 17, 2010 at the Central Library.

'A Life Worth Living: A Doctor's Reflections on Illness in a High-Tech Era'

Thu, 20 May 2010 11:30:00 PDT

Andrew Schorr, host and founder of Patient Power LLC, moderated a conversation with Dr. Robert Martensen -- emergency physician, historian, medical ethicist, author, professor and lecturer on May 5, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Seattle Reads 'Secret Son': Facets of Islam

Tue, 18 May 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Seattle University professor Olúfémi Táíwò moderated a discussion of the Muslim faith, culture and politics with panelists Turki Sami Basfar, Rajaa A. Gharbi and Amine Tais.

Seattle Reads 'Secret Son': Main Event with Author Laila Lalami

Fri, 14 May 2010 13:30:00 PDT

Author Laila Lalami read from and discussed "Secret Son" for the main event of Seattle Reads on May 7, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Technology and Its Impact on the Future of Libraries'

Thu, 13 May 2010 14:30:00 PDT

Library Board trustee Eric Liu moderated a panel discussion on the future of libraries featuring panelists Mike Crandall, Debbie Cook, Vanessa Fox, and Monica Guzman on May 8, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

History of Seattle Architecture, Part 2: 1945 to present

Wed, 12 May 2010 16:00:00 PDT

Jeffrey Karl Ochsner presented an overview of 125 years of Seattle's architectural history, beginning about 1880 (when the city's population was only 3500) and extending to the present day, on April 17, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Ben Huh: 'Lessons Learned from the World of LOLCats, FAILS and Other Blunders'

Mon, 10 May 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Ben Huh spoke about lessons he has learned from the world of LOLCats, FAILS and other blunders on April 23, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Yann Martel: 'Beatrice and Virgil'

Fri, 7 May 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Yann Martel read from his new novel "Beatrice and Virgil" on April 19, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Craig Welch: 'Shell Games'

Tue, 4 May 2010 14:00:00 PDT

Veteran environmental journalist Craig Welch read from his book "Shell Games: Rogues, Smugglers, and the Hunt for Nature's Bounty" on April 12, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

The Price Of A Life Part III: 'Stopping the Traffic'

Mon, 3 May 2010 13:00:00 PDT

KUOW reporter Sara Lerner moderated a discussion with Harvey Sloan, Ye-ting Woo and Kathleen Morris on how local organizations are addressing the illegal trade in human beings on March 28, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

The Price Of A Life Part II: 'The Cost of Capture'

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 09:00:00 PDT

Photojournalist and documentary filmmaker Tim Matsui discussed how he works directly with victims and spreads awareness about human trafficking on March 14, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library. KUOW reporter Sara Lerner moderated the event.

David Laskin: 'The Long Way Home: An American Journey from Ellis Island to the Great War'

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 11:00:00 PDT

David Laskin read from "The Long Way Home: An American Journey from Ellis Island to the Great War" on April 5, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

History of Seattle Architecture, Part I: 1880-1941

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 08:30:00 PDT

Walter Mosley: 'Known to Evil'

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Bestselling author Walter Mosley read from "Known to Evil" on April 2, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Frances McCue and Mary Randlett: 'The Car That Brought You Here Still Runs'

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 10:30:00 PDT

Writer/poet Frances McCue and photographer Mary Randlett presented an illustrated talk on "The Car That Brought You Here Still Runs: Revisiting the Northwest Towns of Richard Hugo" on April 4, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Seattle Reads 'Secret Son': 'Unrolling the Grape Leaves'

Tue, 6 Apr 2010 13:00:00 PDT

Local Arab American writers presented "Unrolling the Grape Leaves" on March 31, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Jodi Picoult: 'House Rules'

Thu, 1 Apr 2010 13:30:00 PDT

Bestselling author Jodi Picoult read from her seventeenth novel, "House Rules," on March 20, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Chang-rae Lee: 'The Surrendered'

Thu, 25 Mar 2010 13:30:00 PDT

Novelist Chang-rae Lee read from his fourth novel, "The Surrendered," on March 15, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Reporting from Afghanistan: A Conversation with Steve Scher and Hal Bernton

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 16:30:00 PDT

KUOW Weekday Senior Host Steve Scher interviewed Seattle Times journalist Hal Bernton about his experiences and perspective on America's role in Afghanistan on March 11, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

The Price Of A Life Part I: 'Legislating to Liberate'

Thu, 18 Mar 2010 11:00:00 PDT

KUOW reporter Sara Lerner moderated a discussion with Velma Veloria and Senator Jeanne Kohl-Welles on how and why Washington State is in the forefront of national legislation regulating against human trafficking and slavery on Feb. 28, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Medical Lecture Series IV: 'Oh My Aching Back!'

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 14:30:00 PDT

Sports physician and UW Spine Care director Stanley A. Herring spoke on back pain care on March 3, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Russian Wedding and Folk Songs

Wed, 3 Mar 2010 14:30:00 PDT

Juliana & PAVA performed ancient Russian polyphonic folk songs on Feb. 20, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

George Clayton Johnson

Thu, 25 Feb 2010 13:30:00 PDT

Legendary Twilight Zone writer George Clayton Johnson discussed his career as an award-winning science fiction author, screenplay writer and director on Feb. 6, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Josh Sundquist: 'Just Don't Fall'

Thu, 18 Feb 2010 13:00:00 PDT

Josh Sundquist discussed "Just Don't Fall: How I Grew Up, Conquered Illness, and Made It Down the Mountain" on Feb. 1, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Lorraine McConaghy presents 'Warship Under Sail'

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Lorraine McConaghy, author and historian for the Museum of History and Industry, gave an illustrated presentation on her new book, "Warship Under Sail: the USS Decatur in the Pacific West" on January 31, 2010 at the Central Library.

Comixtravaganza 3: Meet Peter Bagge

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Peter Bagge, legend of underground comics, talked about his work at the Central Library on Jan.30, 2010

Allen Say: An illustrated talk about his work

Wed, 27 Jan 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Award-winning children's author Allen Say presented an illustrated talk about his work on Jan. 17, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Poet David Huerta: 'Before Saying Any of the Great Words'

Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:00:00 PDT

Poet David Huerta and translator Mark Schafer read from 'Before Saying Any of the Great Words' on Jan. 13, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Greg Mortenson: 'Stones into Schools: Promoting Peace with Books, Not Bombs, in Afghanistan and Pakistan'

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 11:00:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library presented a special evening with Greg Mortenson, author of the international bestseller "Three Cups of Tea," on Dec. 15, 2009 at Seattle Pacific University.

William H. Wilson: 'Shaper of Seattle'

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 09:00:00 PDT

William H. Wilson presented an illustrated lecture on the life and career of Reginald Heber Thomson, Seattle's City Engineer, on Dec. 12, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Fueling disaster: Alcohol, Anger and Aggressive Driving'

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 09:00:00 PDT

Dr. Dennis Donovan presented correlations between drinking and aggressive driving, along with ideas for driver improvement, on Dec. 2, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Ken Auletta and Brier Dudley: 'Googled: The End of the World as We Know It'

Mon, 7 Dec 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Ken Auletta and Seattle Times technology columnist Brier Dudley discussed "Googled: The End of the World as We Know It" on Nov. 9, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Part 2: McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series: Clay Jenkinson as Thomas Jefferson

Thu, 3 Dec 2009 09:00:00 PDT

Clay Jenkinson presented his portrayal of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, on Nov. 13, 2009 at Town Hall as part of the McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series. In Part 2, he opened the floor to questions from the audience to President Jefferson and broke from character and responded to further questions based on his research.

Part 1: McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series: Clay Jenkinson as Thomas Jefferson

Thu, 3 Dec 2009 09:00:00 PDT

Clay Jenkinson presented his portrayal of Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, on Nov. 13, 2009 at Town Hall as part of the McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series. In Part 1, the scholar appeared in costume in the persona of his character.

'Battling Blindness: New and Emerging Treatments'

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 11:00:00 PDT

Dr. Russell Van Gelder discussed the symptoms and causes of eye disease and blindness and emerging new treatments on Nov. 4, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

'2009 Jack Straw Writers Program'

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 14:00:00 PDT

The Washington Center for the Book and Jack Straw Productions celebrated the 2009 Jack Straw Writers Program on Nov. 7, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library with readings by literary artists who were selected for the program by curator Donna Miscolta.

'Stones & Bones: Discovering Secrets in King County's Oldest Cemeteries'

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Gwynneth Anderson presented "Stones & Bones," a photodocumentary on historic King County cemeteries, on Oct. 31, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Greil Marcus: 'A New Literary History of America'

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 14:30:00 PDT

Journalist and cultural critic Greil Marcus read from "A New Literary History of America," co-edited with Werner Sollors, on Oct. 29, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Barbara Ehrenreich: 'Bright-Sided'

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:00:00 PDT

Barbara Ehrenreich discussed her latest book, "Bright-Sided: How the Relentless Promotion of Positive Thinking Has Undermined America," on Oct. 21, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Halloween Concert with Captain Bogg & Salty

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 10:00:00 PDT

Ahoy jolly sea-rollers and land-locked lubbers alike! Join the roughest swaggerin' scallywags that ever sailed the seven seas. Captain Bogg & Salty played a Halloween concert on Oct. 31, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

2009 Washington State Book Awards ceremony

Fri, 6 Nov 2009 14:30:00 PDT

The Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library presented the 43rd annual Washington State Book Awards ceremony, recognizing six outstanding books published by Washington authors in 2008, on Oct. 14, 2009.

Nick Hornby: 'Juliet, Naked'

Wed, 4 Nov 2009 11:30:00 PDT

Nick Hornby, the best-selling author of "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," read from his newest novel, "Juliet, Naked," on Oct. 9, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

William Kamkwamba and Brian Mealer: 'The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity and Hope'

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:30:00 PDT

William Kamkwamba and co-author/journalist Brian Mealer showed images and read from "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity and Hope" on Oct. 4, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Medical Lecture Series IV: 'Does Caffeine Reduce the Risk of Skin Cancer?'

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 14:30:00 PDT

Dr. Paul Nghiem presented research suggesting that consuming caffeine in coffee and other beverages may lower the risk of skin cancer on Oct. 7, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Arthur Sze: 'The Ginkgo Light'

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 14:00:00 PDT

Arthur Sze read from "The Ginkgo Light," his latest poetry collection, on Oct. 6, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Kate DiCamillo: 'The Magician's Elephant'

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:00:00 PDT

Kate DiCamillo read from "The Magician's Elephant" on Oct. 3, 2009 at The Seattle Public Library.

Seattle City Council Candidates Debate

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:00:00 PDT

Seattle City Council candidates engaged in a debate moderated by Ryan Blethen, The Seattle Times, and C.R. Douglas, The Seattle Channel, on Oct. 13 at The Seattle Public Library.

SENSEable City Lab Trash Track exhibit

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 09:00:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) teamed up for a SENSEable City Lab Trash Track exhibit. This event on Sept. 19, 2009 at the Central Library launched the exhibit and helped people find out where trash goes.

Seattle Mayoral Candidates Debate

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:30:00 PDT

Seattle Mayoral candidates Mike McGinn and Joe Mallahan engaged in a debate moderated by Joni Balter, The Seattle Times, and Dave Ross, KIRO Radio, on Oct. 5, 2009 at the Central Library.

Curtis Ebbesmeyer: 'Flotsametrics and the Floating World'

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Curtis Ebbesmeyer showed images and talked about his recent book co-authored with Seattle author Eric Scigliano, "Flotsametrics and the Floating World: How One Man's Obsession with Runaway Sneakers and Rubber Ducks Revolutionized Ocean Science" on Sept. 26, 2009 at the Central Library.

Red Pine (a.k.a. Bill Porter): 'In Such Hard Times: The Poetry of Wei Ying-wu'

Thu, 1 Oct 2009 10:30:00 PDT

Acclaimed translator Red Pine (a.k.a. Bill Porter) presented bilingual readings in English and Chinese from "In Such Hard Times: The Poetry of Wei Ying-wu" on Sept. 22, 2009 at the Central Library.

Sue Monk Kidd and Ann Kidd Taylor: 'Traveling with Pomegranates'

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 10:30:00 PDT

Sue Monk Kidd, bestselling author of the "The Secret Life of Bees" and "The Mermaid Chair," and Ann Kidd Taylor read from "Traveling with Pomegranates" on Sept. 16, 2009 at the Central Library.

Sandra Day O'Connor: 'Education: A Big Idea in Today's America'

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 16:30:00 PDT

Retired Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Connor spoke on "Education: A Big Idea in Today's America" on Sept. 14, 2009 at Town Hall.

Cultural Collisions: Women Poets and Their Craft

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Calling themselves La Jefa ("The Boss" in Spanish and Portuguese), four Seattle women writers, who collectively represent at least 16 cultures, presented a workshop and read from their work on June 27, 2009 at the Beacon Hill Branch.

Douglas Brinkley: 'The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America'

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Presidential historian Douglas Brinkley discussed "The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America" on Aug. 6, 2009 at the Central Library.

Rebecca Wells: 'The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder'

Mon, 3 Aug 2009 14:30:00 PDT

Rebecca Wells read from "The Crowning Glory of Calla Lily Ponder" on July 10, 2009 at the Central Library.

Colum McCann: 'Let the Great World Spin'

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 10:30:00 PDT

Award-winning Irish novelist Colum McCann read from "Let the Great World Spin" on July 13, 2009 at the Central Library.

Carlos Ruiz Zafón: 'The Angel's Game'

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 9:30:00 PDT

Carlos Ruiz Zafón discussed his latest novel, "The Angel's Game," on June 26, 2009 at the Central Library.

Bill O'Daly and Kisha Xiomara Palmer: Translations of Pablo Neruda

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 9:00:00 PDT

Bill O'Daly and Kisha Xiomara Palmer read from "World's End", O'Daly's ninth translated work of Chilean Nobel Prize poet Pablo Neruda on June 20, 2009 at the Central Library.

Lisa See: 'Shanghai Girls'

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 14:00:00 PDT

Lisa See discussed "Shanghai Girls" on June 16, 2009 at the Central Library.

Alan J. Stein and Paula Becker: Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition: Washington's First World's Fair

Thu, 2 Jul 2009 11:00:00 PDT

HistoryLink.org authors Alan J. Stein and Paula Becker shared photographs and stories from their new book, "Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition: Washington's First World's Fair," on June 13, 2009 at the Central Library.

Alain de Botton: 'The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work'

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 9:00:00 PDT

Alain de Botton discussed "The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work" on June 10, 2009 at the Central Library.

Lee Child: 'Gone Tomorrow'

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 9:00:00 PDT

Bestselling author Lee Child read from "Gone Tomorrow," his thirteenth novel featuring Jack Reacher, a character known by millions as a thinking person's action hero, on June 9, 2009 at the Central Library.

Diane Wei Liang: 'Lake With No Name: A True Story of Love and Conflict in Modern China'

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 9:00:00 PDT

Beijing-born mystery writer Diane Wei Liang read from her memoir, "Lake With No Name: A True Story of Love and Conflict in Modern China," on June 7, 2009 at the Central Library.

'Seattle Noir'

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 9:00:00 PDT

A panel of local writers read from and discussed "Seattle Noir," a new anthology of original crime fiction set in our city's sinful, soggy streets, on June 2, 2009 at the Central Library.

Poets Daniel Comiskey and Chris Putnam: 'Crawlspace'

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 10:00:00 PDT

Seattle poets Daniel Comiskey and Chris Putnam read from their book "Crawlspace" on May 28, 2009 at the Central Library.

Seattle Reads 'My Jim': Main Event with Nancy Rawles

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 16:00:00 PDT

Nancy Rawles spoke on "Living with Passion" for the main event of Seattle Reads "My Jim" on May 22, 2009 at the Central Library.

Lynda Mapes: 'Breaking Ground: The Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe and the Unearthing of Tse-whit-zen Village'

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:00:00 PDT

Lynda Mapes presented a program about the excavation of the Tse-whit-zen Village of the Lower Elwha Klallam tribe in Port Angeles, one of the largest and oldest Indian village sites ever found in this region on May 17, 2009 at the Central Library.

Seattle Reads 'My Jim': Contemporary African-American Writing

Fri, 5 Jun 2009 15:00:00 PDT

Two authors, Ta-Nehisi Coates and Attica Locke, discussed contemporary African-American writing on May 15, 2009 at the Central Library.

Joan Hockaday: 'Greenscapes: Olmsted's Pacific Northwest'

Wed, 3 Jun 2009 14:30:00 PDT

Joan Hockaday read from "Greenscapes: Olmsted's Pacific Northwest," a book about Olmsted's park system designs throughout the Pacific Northwest on May 2, 2009 at the Central Library.

A Conversation with Mark Morris and Peter Boal

Thu, 21 May 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Peter Boal, Pacific Northwest Ballet Artistic Director, engaged in a lively discussion with director and choreographer Mark Morris on April 28, 2009 at the Central Library.

Mende Nazer: 'Slave: My True Story'

Mon, 18 May 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Mende Nazer discussesed her memoir, "Slave: My True Story" on April 26, 2009 at the Central Library.

Jonathan Alter: The Seattle Public Library's 2009 A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History

Fri, 8 May 2009 16:30:00 PDT

Jonathan Alter, Newsweek senior editor and NBC News correspondent, discussed "The Defining Moment: FDR's Hundred Days and the Triumph of Hope" on stage with Eric Liu on March 23, 2009 at the Central Library.

Seattle Reads 'My Jim': Huck Finn: In or Out of School?

Wed, 6 May 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Two teachers, two students, and a parent discussed the merits and challenges of teaching "Huckleberry Finn" in the schools on April 11, 2009 at the Central Library.

Thomas Ricks: 'The Gamble: General Petraeus and the American Military Adventure in Iraq, 2006-2008'

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Thomas Ricks discussed "The Gamble: General Petraeus and the American Military Adventure in Iraq, 2006-2008" on Apr. 9, 2009 at the Central Library.

Seattle Reads 'My Jim': The Hansberry Project staged readings

Fri, 27 Mar 2009 09:30:00 PDT

The Hansberry Project, directed by Valerie Curtis-Newton, kicked off Seattle Reads 'My Jim' with staged readings on Mar. 15, 2009, at the Central Library.

Tavis Smiley: 'Accountable: Making America as Good as Its Promise'

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 13:30:00 PDT

Tavis Smiley, national television and radio talk show host, discussed "Accountable: Making America as Good as Its Promise" on Mar. 12, 2009 at the Central Library.

Paul Bannick: 'The Owl and the Woodpecker'

Fri, 20 Mar 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Seattle photographer, author, educator, and naturalist Paul Bannick presented "The Owl and the Woodpecker: Encounters with North America's Most Iconic Birds" on Mar. 11, 2009 at the Central Library.

Samuel Green, Washington State Poet Laureate, and Kim Stafford: Poetry Reading

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Sam Green and Kim Stafford, longtime friends and admirers of each other's work, read poetry on Mar. 3, 2009 at the Central Library.

Val McDermid: 'A Darker Domain'

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 09:30:00 PDT

The bestselling author of Scottish police mysteries read from her latest novel, "A Darker Domain," on Feb. 15, 2009 at the Central Library.

Bruce Barcott: 'The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw'

Fri, 6 Mar 2009 09:30:00 PDT

Award-winning author Bruce Barcott read from "The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw: One Woman's Fight to Save the World's Most Beautiful Bird" on Feb. 28, 2009 at the Central Library.

Inauguration of new Poet Populist Mike Hickey Part 2

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Jack Hirschman helped celebrate the inauguration of new Poet Populist Mike Hickey on Jan. 25, 2009 at the Central Library.

Inauguration of new Poet Populist Mike Hickey Part 1

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Celebrating the inauguration of new Poet Populist Mike Hickey on Jan. 25, 2009 at the Central Library.

Barry Unsworth: 'Land of Marvels'

Wed, 4 Feb 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Barry Unsworth read from his latest historical novel, "Land of Marvels," on Jan. 24, 2009 at the Central Library.

Azar Nafisi: 'Things I've Been Silent About: Memories'

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Azar Nafisi discussed "Things I've Been Silent About: Memories" on Jan. 16, 2009 at the Central Library.

King County Elections Director Debate

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 09:05:00 PDT

King County Elections Director candidates debated on Jan. 15, 2009 at the Central Library.

Mo Yan: The Re-emergence of Literary Voice in Contemporary China

Tue, 13 Jan 2009 09:05:00 PDT

Mo Yan read from and discussed his works with Christopher Lupke, associate professor of Chinese, Washington State University, and other panelists on Jan. 5, 2009 at the Central Library.

College Admissions and Scholarships at the Central Library - Part 2

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Attendees learned how to prepare for the SAT or ACT, and discovered scholarship resources on November 19, 2008 at the Central Library. Sam Lim, founder of Scholarship Junkies, discussed the vast resources available and how to use these tools to maximize scholarship potential.

College Admissions and Scholarships at the Central Library - Part 1

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Attendees learned how to prepare for the SAT or ACT, and discovered scholarship resources on November 19, 2008 at the Central Library. A representative from Kaplan discussed how to prepare for the SAT or ACT.

John D. Anderson: Portrayal of Henry James

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Humanities scholar-Chautauquan John D. Anderson presented his portrayal of prolific American writer, Henry James, on November 20, 2008 at the Central Library as part of The Seattle Public Library's 2008 Living Literature Series.

2008 Jack Straw Writers Program

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

The Washington Center for the Book and Jack Straw Productions celebrated the 2008 Jack Straw Writers Program with readings by literary artists on November 16, 2008 at the Central Library.

Cliff Mass: 'The Weather of the Pacific Northwest'

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Cliff Mass discussed 'The Weather of the Pacific Northwest' on November 15, 2008 at the Central Library.

William Least Heat-Moon: 'Roads to Quoz: An American Mosey'

Tue, 05 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

William Least Heat-Moon discussed "Roads to Quoz: An American Mosey" on November 10, 2008 at the Central Library.

Douglas Smith: 'The Pearl'

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Douglas Smith showed images and read from "The Pearl: A True Tale of Forbidden Love in Catherine the Great's Russia" on November 9, 2008 at the Central Library.

M.T. Anderson: 'The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: Volume II'

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

M.T. Anderson read from "The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing: Volume II: Kingdom on the Waves" on November 6, 2008 at the Central Library.

John Green: 'Paper Towns'

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Author John Green read from his new novel "Paper Towns" on October 28, 2008 at the Central Library.

Mary Woodward: 'In Defense of Our Neighbors'

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Mary Woodward showed images and read from "In Defense of Our Neighbors: The Walt and Milly Woodward Story," the book that inspired "Snow Falling on Cedars," on November 1, 2008 at the Central Library.

2008 Washington State Book Award

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

The Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library presented the 42nd annual Washington State Book Awards ceremony on October 22, 2008.

Julia Glass: 'I See You Everywhere'

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Julia Glass read from 'I See You Everywhere' on October 21, 2008 at the Central Library.

Alice Schroeder: 'The Snowball: Warren Buffett and the Business of Life'

Wed, 5 Nov 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Alice Schroeder and Seattle Channel's C.R. Douglas had a conversation about Warren Buffett on October 17, 2008 at the Central Library.

Paul Theroux: 'Ghost Train to the Eastern Star'

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Paul Theroux read from "Ghost Train to the Eastern Star: On the Tracks of the Great Railway Bazaar" on October 16, 2008 at the Central Library.

Christopher Kimball: "America's Test Kitchen Baking Book" and "Cook's Country Cookbook"

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Christopher Kimball, host of "America's Test Kitchen," talked about two new cookbooks, "America's Test Kitchen Baking Book" and "Cook's Country Cookbook," on October 14, 2008 at the Central Library.

Marilynne Robinson: 'Home'

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Marilynne Robinson read from "Home" on October 2, 2008 at the Central Library.

Robert Fisk: 'Age of the Warrior: Selected Essays'

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Robert Fisk, veteran British war correspondent, read from "Age of the Warrior: Selected Essays" on September 26, 2008 at the Central Library.

Steven Roby: 'Black Gold: The Lost Archives of Jimi Hendrix'

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Jimi Hendrix biographer Steven Roby, author of "Black Gold: The Lost Archives of Jimi Hendrix," gave a free lecture on the famous Seattle guitarist's life and music on September 19, 2008 at the Central Library.

Paul Auster: 'Man in the Dark'

Thu, 9 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Paul Auster read from his latest work, "Man in the Dark," a novel with a dark political twist on September 18, 2008 at the Central Library.

Christopher Buckley: 'Supreme Courtship'

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Christopher Buckley, an American political satirist, read from his latest novel "Supreme Courtship" on September 16, 2008 at the Central Library.

'Neighborhood Blogs: What's All the Buzz About?'

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 09:05:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library and City Club presented a panel discussion about neighborhood blogs on Sept. 4, 2008 at the Central Library.

Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer: 'The True Patriot'

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer discussed "The True Patriot" on September 11, 2008 at the Central Library.

Joshua Prince-Ramus: 'Learning from The Seattle Public Library'

Fri, 19 Sep 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Architect Joshua Prince-Ramus gave a presentation titled "Learning from The Seattle Public Library" on September 13, 2008 at the Central Library.

David B.: 'Epileptic'

Tue, 26 Aug 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Pierre-François Beauchard (professionally known as David B.) discussed "Epileptic" and his other works on August 16, 2008 at the Central Library.

Barbara Ehrenreich: 'This Land Is Their Land: Notes from a Divided Nation'

Wed, 06 Aug 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Barbara Ehrenreich, bestselling author of "Nickel and Dimed," read from her latest work, "This Land Is Their Land: Notes from a Divided Nation" July 17, 2008 at the Central Library.

Deborah Faye Lawrence: 'Dee-Dee Does Utopia'

Thu, 24 Jul 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Seattle artist Deborah Faye Lawrence discussed and showed images from "Dee-Dee Does Utopia" July 14, 2008 at the Central Library.

Stephen L. Carter: 'Palace Council'

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Stephen L. Carter read from his latest novel "Palace Council," a political thriller set in the era of Watergate and Vietnam July 9, 2008 at the Central Library.

David Shields: 'The Thing About Life Is That One Day You'll Be Dead'

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 09:05:00 PDT

David Shields read from "The Thing About Life Is That One Day You'll Be Dead" June 14, 2008 at the Central Library.

Robert Thurman: 'Why the Dalai Lama Matters: His Act of Truth as the Solution for China, Tibet, and the World'

Wed, 02 Jul 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Robert Thurman, professor, author, translator, discussed his new book, "Why the Dalai Lama Matters: His Act of Truth as the Solution for China, Tibet, and the World" June 10, 2008 at the Central Library.

Russell Banks: 'Dreaming Up America'

Wed, 25 Jun 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Russell Banks, acclaimed novelist, read from "Dreaming Up America," his first work of nonfiction June 9, 2008 at the Central Library.

David Guterson: 'The Other'

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 09:05:00 PDT

David Guterson, author of "Snow Falling on Cedars," read from his new novel, "The Other" June 6, 2008 at the Central Library. "The Other" tells a story of youth and idealism, adulthood and its compromises, and two powerfully different visions of what it means to live a good life.

C.D. Wright: 'Rising, Falling, Hovering'

Thu, 12 Jun 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Award-winning poet C.D. Wright read from her new collection, "Rising, Falling, Hovering" June 4, 2008 at the Central Library. Deeply personal and politically ferocious, "Rising, Falling, Hovering" addresses, as Wright has said elsewhere, "the commonly felt crises of [our] times"-from illegal immigration and the specific consequences of empire to the challenges of parenting and the honesty required of human relationships.

Firoozeh Dumas: 'Laughing Without an Accent: Adventures of an Iranian American, at Home and Abroad'

Wed, 4 Jun 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Firoozeh Dumas read from her new memoir, "Laughing Without an Accent: Adventures of an Iranian American, at Home and Abroad" May 21, 2008 at the Central Library. Dumas tells her story of being a citizen of the world in her American, Iranian, Parisian family in "Laughing Without an Accent," a series of humorous autobiographical essays.

Tan Twan Eng: 'The Gift of Rain'

Wed, 28 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Tan Twan Eng read from his debut novel, "The Gift of Rain," May 13, 2008 at the Central Library. Tan's debut epic novel, nominated for the Man Booker Prize, tells the story of a young man's perilous journey through the betrayals of war and into manhood.

Alexandra Fuller: 'The Legend of Colton H. Bryant'

Thu, 22 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Alexandra Fuller discussed her latest nonfiction work, "The Legend of Colton H. Bryant" on May 14, 2008 at the Central Library. Fuller tells the tragic story of a young man who fell to his death on an oil rig because the oil company failed to spend $2,000 on safety rails.

Seattle Reads Main Event: An evening with Dinaw Mengestu

Tue, 20 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Dinaw Mengestu spoke on "Exile, Imagination, and the American Dream" for the main event of the 2008 Seattle Reads series on May 9 at the Central Library. Set in a poor neighborhood in Washington, D.C., Dinaw Mengestu's award-winning novel tells a story of the African immigrant experience through three main characters. The Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library invites everyone to take part in Seattle Reads "The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears," a project designed to foster reading and discussion of works by authors of diverse cultures and ethnicities.

Alice Hoffman: 'The Third Angel'

Thu, 08 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Alice Hoffman read from her new novel, "The Third Angel," on April 29, 2008 at the Central Library. Hoffman weaves a story that charts the lives of three women in love with the wrong men. At the heart of the novel is Lucy Green, who blames herself for a tragic accident she witnessed at the age of twelve, and who spends four decades searching for the Third Angel, the angel on earth who will renew her faith.

2007-2008 Seattle Poet Populist: Cody Walker

Tue, 06 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Readings in celebration of Cody Walker's 2007-2008 term as Seattle Poet Populist at the Central Library on April 20, 2008. Along with Cody Walker, the following poets read their poems: Eric McHenry, B.T. Shaw, Jason Whitmarsh, and Catherine Wing.

Pat Mora: Sharing Bookjoy

Fri, 02 May 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Author Pat Mora spoke about promoting a love of reading among children at the Central Library on April 7, 2008. This program is part of a series commemorating Día de los niños/Día de los libros (Children's Day/Book Day), an annual celebration of children, families, and reading founded by Pat Mora in 1996 and now celebrated in libraries and schools throughout the country.

Jhumpa Lahiri: 'Unaccustomed Earth'

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Jhumpa Lahiri read from her new work of fiction: "Unaccustomed Earth." eight stories that travel from Cambridge and Seattle to India and Thailand as they enter the lives of sisters and brothers, fathers and mothers, daughters and sons, friends and lovers. Lahiri spoke at the Central Library on April 14.

Jodi Picoult: 'Change of Heart'

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 09:32:00 PDT

Jodi Picoult read from her new novel, "Change of Heart," Tuesday, Apr. 1 at the Central Library. "Change of Heart" is about a death row inmate who wants to donate his heart, post execution, to the sister of his victim. Picoult challenges readers to consider hard-to-answer questions about organized religion and the death penalty.

Africa 101 Panel Discussion: A Seattle Reads Program

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Olúfémi Táíwò, director, and Saheed Adejumobi, assistant professor of history, Global African Studies Program, Seattle University, gave an overview of African history and culture, colonialism and its impacts on Thursday, Mar. 6 at the Central Library. This program is part of Seattle Reads "The Beautiful Things That Heaven Bears."

David Smith-Ferri reads from 'Battlefield Without Borders: Iraq Poems'

Mon, 07 Apr 2008 09:05:00 PDT

David Smith-Ferri showed slides, told stories and read from "Battlefield Without Borders: Iraq Poems" on Sunday, March 2, 2008 at the Central Library. Two thirds of the poems in "Battlefield Without Borders" were written while in Iraq, after his encounters with Iraqi people, in a wide-range of settings - from hospitals to homes to bomb sites. The remaining poems have been written since. Smith-Ferri visited Iraq for the first time in July 1999, as part of an eight-member fact-finding delegation organized by the Chicago-based group, Voices in the Wilderness, whose purpose was to gather first hand information about the humanitarian crisis caused by international economic sanctions and the terror caused by the policy and practice of "no-fly zone" bombings. He returned to Iraq in September 2002, in the run-up to the invasion, to interview Iraqis, investigate the likely real life consequences of a United States military invasion on ordinary Iraqis, and to reconnect with Iraqi families he had met previously.

Richard Kenney: 'The One-Strand River: Poems, 1994-2007'

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning poet Richard Kenney reads from his first new collection in 14 years, "The One-Strand River: Poems, 1994-2007."

Daniel Schorr presents The Seattle Public Library's 2008 A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning journalist and author Daniel Schorr presents the 2008 A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History with local author and news commentator Eric Liu.

Elias Khoury: 'Yalo'

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 07:30:00 PDT

Elias Khoury, Lebanon-born novelist, playwright, and critic, reads from his latest novel, "Yalo."

Natalie Goldberg: 'Old Friend from Far Away: The Practice of Writing Memoir'

Fri, 21 Mar 2008 07:30:00 PDT

Natalie Goldberg discussed her latest book, "Old Friend from Far Away: The Practice of Writing Memoir," Friday, Feb. 22 at the Central Library.

Anne Enright: 'The Gathering'

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 07:30:00 PDT

Irish novelist Anne Enright read from her 2007 Man Booker Prize-winning novel, "The Gathering". on Tuesday, Feb.19 at the Central Library.

The Changing Face of Downtown Seattle

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 09:05:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library presented a panel discussion about the evolution and future of downtown Seattle on Monday, Feb. 11 at the Central Library. Featured panelists included Seattle City Librarian Deborah L. Jacobs, Seattle Art Museum Director Mimi Gates, John Nesholm of LMN Architects and Greg Smith of Urban Visions. Moderated by The Seattle Channel's C.R. Douglas.

Geraldine Brooks: 'People of the Book'

Mon, 3 Mar 20078 09:05:00 PDT

Pulitzer prize winning author and journalist Geraldine Brooks read from her new novel, "People of the Book," Monday, Feb. 4 at the Central Library.

Jeffrey Karl Ochsner lectures on architect Lionel Pries

Mon, 25 Feb 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Professor Ochsner presented a lecture about architect and artist Lionel Pries Sunday, Jan. 27 at the Central Library. Pries' career spanned the 20th Century from arts and crafts to modern styles.

Comixtravaganza: 'Getting Into Comics' panel

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 09:05:00 PDT

In this Q & A panel, held January 26 ath the Central Library, local lights of the comics world discuss what they love about comics, their experiences in the comics industry, and more. Participants include:Bill Barnes & Gene Ambaum, Unshelved.com; Greg Hatcher, Comic Book Resources; Nicole & Danielle, NDP Comics; Eric Reynolds, Fantagraphics Books and Rosie Heffernan & Madeline Heffernan, TheColorM.com's "Serves You Right"

Comixtravaganza: Ellen Forney

Wed, 13 Feb 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Ellen Forney, acclaimed local cartoonist, illustrator and teacher, spoke about her work Jan. 26 at the Central Library. Ellen Forney is the author of several books, including "I Love Led Zeppelin" and MONKEY FOOD: The Complete "I Was Seven in '75" Collection. "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian," written by Sherman Alexie and illustrated by Forney, won the 2007 National Book Award.

Richard Rodriguez: 'The God of the Desert: Jerusalem and the Ecology of Monotheism'

Wed, 6 Feb 2008 07:30:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library and Harper's Magazine presented essayist Richard Rodriguez on. Friday, Jan. 25 at Town Hall. Rodriguez read from "The God of the Desert: Jerusalem and the Ecology of Monotheism."

Sue Miller: 'The Senator's Wife'

Fri, 1 Feb 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Bestselling novelist Sue Miller read from her latest, "The Senator's Wife," on Thursday Jan. 24, 2008 at the Central Library.

Orhan Pamuk, the Nobel Prize, and the World of Turkish Literature: A Conversation with Walter G. Andrews

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Scholar and translator Walter G. Andrews discussed Orhan Pamuk's novels "The Black Book" and "My Name Is Red," with Dr. Selim S. Kuru Wednesday, Jan. 16, 2008 at the Central Library. Andrews also read from his translations of Ottoman and Turkish poets.

Chris Crutcher: 'Deadline'

Tue, 8 Jan 2008 09:05:00 PDT

Award-winning author Chris Crutcher read from "Deadline," his newest novel for young adults at the Greenwood Branch on December 13.

'Mary Randlett Landscapes:' A Conversation

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Acclaimed Northwest photographer Mary Randlett and local photographer Ted D'Arms will discuss "Mary Randlett: Landscapes," a collection of Randlett's photographs accompanied by essays and poetry, Sunday, Dec. 2 at the Central Library.

Amanda Diva: 'Young Skin, Wise Mind, Old Soul'

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Poet, performer, and activist Amanda Diva read from her new book of poetry, "Young Skin, Wise Mind, Old Soul"

Ha Jin read from 'A Free Life'

Wed, 26 Dec 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning author Ha Jin read from his latest novel, "A Free Life," the story of the Wu family's struggle for the American dream, Tuesday, Nov. 13 at the Central Library.

Daniel Walker Howe: 'What Hath God Wrought'

Wed, 19 Dec 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Historian Daniel Walker Howe discussed "What Hath God Wrought: The Transformation of America, 1815-1848," Saturday, Nov. 10 at the Central Library.

Joseph J. Ellis discusses 'American Creation'

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Joseph J. Ellis discussed his newest work, "American Creation: Triumphs and Tragedies at the Founding of the Republic," Thursday, Nov. 8 at the Central Library.

Living Literature Series featuring Robert Frost

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 09:30:00 PDT

Humanities scholar John D. Anderson presented his portrayal of Robert Frost, four-time Pulitzer Prize winning poet, Monday, Nov. 5 at the Central Library.

'AfterShock' author Jessie Gruman

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 09:05:00 PDT

'AfterShock' author and social psychologist Jessie Gruman discussed the lessons she learned as the survivor of four life-threatening illnesses over the past three decades in a program presented Thursday, Nov. 1 at the Central Library.

Poets Laurie Lamon and Michele Glazer read

Wed, Dec 5 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Library presented a reading with award-winning Pacific Northwest poets Laurie Lamon and Michele Glazer Saturday, Oct. 27 at the Central Library.

Alice Sebold: 'The Almost Moon'

Mon, Nov 26 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Bestselling author Alice Sebold discussed her latest novel, "The Almost Moon," Friday, Oct. 26 at the Central Library. Sebold is the author of the bestselling novel "The Lovely Bones" and the memoir "Lucky."

Living Literature Series featuring Dorothy Parker

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Humanities scholar Suzan King presented her portrayal of Dorothy Parker, American journalist, critic, writer and poet known for her biting wit, in a program on Monday, Oct. 22 at the Central Library.

Oliver Sacks: 'Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain'

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Physician and bestselling author Oliver Sacks will read from his latest work, "Musicophilia: Tales of Music and the Brain," Friday, Oct. 19 at the Central Library. In his latest work, Sacks explores the power music wields over people.

2007 Washington State Book Awards

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Six books written by local authors Charles D'Ambrosio, Madeline DeFrees, Julie Phillips, William D. Layman, Jack Prelutsky, and Brent Hartinger were winners of the 2007 Washington State Book Awards. These authors were honored at a public ceremony at the Central Library on Wednesday, Oct. 17.

Jeffrey Toobin: 'The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court'

Mon, 5 Nov 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Author Jeffrey Toobin discussed his newest book, "The Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court," Friday, Oct. 5 at the Central Library. Toobin is a CNN legal analyst and New Yorker staff writer.

Nick Hornby: 'Slam'

Mon, 5 Nov 2007 09:05:00 PDT

Nick Hornby read from his first novel for teens, "Slam," Wednesday, Oct. 24 at the Central Library. The New Yorker called Hornby "the maestro of the male confessional." His bestselling adult novels include "High Fidelity" and "About a Boy," both of which were made into movies.

Ann Patchett: 'Run'

Wed, 31 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning author Ann Patchett read from her latest novel, "Run," Friday, Oct. 12 at the Central Library. "Run" is the story of the deep-running secrets and bonds of a politically-connected Boston family. Patchett is the author of five novels, including the international bestseller, "Bel Canto," which won the PEN/Faulkner Award and the Orange Prize and was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award

Walter Mosley: 'Blonde Faith'

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Walter Mosley reads from his latest novel, "Blonde Faith," the latest and final Easy Rawlins novel. Walter Mosley is the author of 28 critically acclaimed books, and his work has been translated into 21 languages. His popular mysteries featuring Easy Rawlins began with "Devil in a Blue Dress" (1990). He spoke at the Central Library on Wednesday, Oct. 10.

Jonathan Kozol: 'Letters to a Young Teacher'

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning author and educator Jonathan Kozol discussed his latest book, "Letters to a Young Teacher," Saturday, Oct. 6 at the Central Library. In "Letters to a Young Teacher," Kozol reveals his personal stories of years spent in public schools.

Ursula Hegi: 'The Worst Thing I've Done'

Wed, 17 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning author Ursula Hegi discussed her latest novel, "The Worst Thing I've Done," Tuesday, Oct. 2 at the Central Library. Hegi is the winner of numerous honors and awards, including a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship and five PEN syndicated fiction awards.

Zakes Mda: 'Cion'

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

South African novelist, Zakes Mda read from "Cion," his sixth novel and the first to be set in the United States, Monday, Oct. 1 at the Central Library. Mda is an award-winning writer of plays, novels, poems, and articles for academic journals and newspapers. Toloki, the professional mourner and hero of Mda's "Ways of Dying," settles down with a family in Middle America and uncovers the story of the runaway slaves who were their ancestors.

Christopher Finan: 'From the Palmer Raids to the Patriot Act'

Mon, 8 Oct 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Historian and activist Christopher Finan discussed his latest book, "From the Palmer Raids to the Patriot Act: A History of the Fight for Free Speech in America," on Thursday, Sept. 27 at the Central Library. "From the Palmer Raids to the Patriot Act" is an insightful history of the long struggle for free speech in America.

The September Project 2007 featuring Greg Mortenson

Mon, 1 Oct 2007 08:30:00 PDT

Mountain climber turned humanitarian Greg Mortenson discussed his work in remote Pakistan and Afghanistan at several Seattle Public Library programs Sept. 23 - 25 as part of the Library's 2007 September Project. Mortenson's book "Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace...One School at a Time" was recently awarded the 2007 Kiriyama Prize for Nonfiction..

Lucia Perillo: 'I've Heard the Vultures Singing'

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning poet Lucia Perillo read from her memoir, "I've Heard the Vultures Singing: Field Notes on Poetry, Illness, and Nature," on Saturday, Sept. 15 at the Central Library. In her latest work, Perillo observes the world from her wheelchair after a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis in her 30s forced her to navigate the world without the use of her legs.

Gail Tsukiyama: 'The Street of a Thousand Blossoms'

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Gail Tsukiyama read from her latest novel, "The Street of a Thousand Blossoms," on Wednesday, Sept. 12 at the Central Library. Set in Japan before, during and after World War II, "The Street of a Thousand Blossoms" tells the story of two brothers: Hiroshi, a famous sumo wrestler, and Kenji, creator of hand-carved masks used in Noh theater.

Thomas Ricks: 'Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq'

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Thomas Ricks, senior Pentagon correspondent for the Washington Post, discussed "Fiasco: The American Military Adventure in Iraq," on Wednesday, Aug. 8 at the Central Library. Ricks has covered the U.S. military for the Washington Post since 2000, reporting on activities in Somalia, Haiti, Korea, Bosnia, Kosovo, Macedonia, Kuwait, Turkey, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Thrity Umrigar: 'If Today Be Sweet'

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Indian author Thrity Umrigar read from her latest novel, "If Today Be Sweet," on Sunday, July 8 at the Central Library. "If Today Be Sweet" tells the story of a widow who must decide if she should go back to India, where her fondest memories were born, or remain in Ohio with her only son and his American wife.

Marc Freedman: 'Encore: Finding Work That Matters in the Second Half of Life'

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Marc Freedman discussed "Encore: Finding Work That Matters in the Second Half of Life" on Monday, June 25 at the Central Library. In his latest work, Freedman tells stories of members of the baby boom generation leaving careers and inventing a new phase of work.

Seattle Poet Populist 'Candidates Read-Off'

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Library, City Council President Nick Licata, and Bumbershoot presented a "Candidates Read-Off" on Sunday, July 15 at the Central Library. This free event featured readings by Seattle poets who were nominated for the post of 2007-2008 Seattle Poet Populist.

Potterpalooza: All Ages Rock Roll Concert with Harry and the Potters

Thu, 9 Aug 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Harry and the Potters came to the Central Library to "Rock the Library DOWN!" The Library presented "Potterpalooza: All Ages Rock and Roll Concert with Harry and the Potters" on Friday, July 13 at the Central Library. Brothers Paul and Joe DeGeorge, of Harry and the Potters, brought their wizard-rock to the Library.

Anosh Irani: 'The Song of Kahunsha'

Mon, 6 Aug 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Anosh Irani read from his latest work, "The Song of Kahunsha" on Thursday, June 21 at the Central Library. Rich in the sights and sounds of Bombay, the book tells the story of 10-year-old Chamdi's struggle for survival on the city's dangerous streets.

Anne Fadiman: 'At Large and At Small'

Wed, 25 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Anne Fadiman discussed her latest work, "At Large and At Small: Familiar Essays" on Sunday, June 17 at the Central Library. This collection of essays returns Fadiman to one of her favorite genres, the familiar essay.

'Writing the West'

Wed, 25 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

As part of the 2007 Adult Summer Reading Program, KUOW Public Radio's Marcie Sillman talked with award-winning Northwest writers about the influence of the West in their work in a "Writing the West" program held on Wednesday, June 13 at the Central Library. The writers featured included Kathleen Alcalá, Karen Fisher, Jana Harris and Kirby Larson.

Michael Beschloss: 'Presidential Courage: Brave Leaders and How They Changed America, 1789-1989'

Mon, 23 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

In his latest work, Beschloss outlines how several occupants of the Oval Office - including Abraham Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy and Ronald Reagan - combined courage with wisdom to change the future of the country, notwithstanding the criticism they earned. Beschloss was recently appointed NBC News presidential historian, the first time any major network has created such a position. This program was presented on Thursday, June 7 at the Central Library.

Joyce Carol Oates: 'The Gravedigger's Daughter'

Tue, 17 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Oates, award-winning author of novels, short stories, poetry, plays and nonfiction works, discussed her latest novel, "The Gravedigger's Daughter" on Monday, June 4 at the Central Library.

Jim Crace, in conversation with Jonathan Raban

Thu, 12 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

British novelist Jim Crace, winner of the Whitbread and National Book Critics Circle awards, discussed his latest work, "The Pesthouse," on Thursday, May 24 at the Central Library. Crace was joined by Seattle author Jonathan Raban.

An Evening with poets Ted Kooser and Dan Gerber

Mon, 9 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Library and Copper Canyon Press presented an evening with former U.S. Poet Laureate Ted Kooser, winner of the 2005 Pulitzer Prize for "Delights and Shadows," and his longtime friend and fellow poet, Dan Gerber, on Thursday, May 24 at the Seattle Art Museum.

Atul Gawande: 'Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance'

Thu, 5 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library celebrated the publication of author Nancy Pearl's newest book, "Book Crush: For Kids and Teens-Recommended Reading for Every Mood, Moment and Interest" with a launch party on Monday, April 30 at the Central Library.

Nancy Pearl: 'Book Crush'

Mon, 2 July 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Atul Gawande, Harvard-trained surgeon and 2006 MacArthur Fellow, discussed "Better: A Surgeon's Notes on Performance" on Thursday, May 3 at the Central Library. The program was part of the Library's celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Writing India in the Pacific Northwest

Wed, 27 June 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Join the Library for a discussion with local South Asian novelists Bharti Kirchner and Indu Sundaresan that took place on Wednesday, April 25 at the Central Library. The program is part of "Seattle Reads: 'The Namesake.'"

Seattle Poet Populist Jourdan Imani Keith & Friends

Mon, 25 June 2007 07:30:00 PDT

In celebration of Jourdan Keith's term as 2006-07 Seattle Poet Populist, Keith read and performed from 'Umbilical Topography' a collection of poems, flash fiction, and essays on Sunday, April 15. Keith was joined friends by Felicia Gonzalez and Brian McGuigan, who both read from their latest works. Gonzalez read from her forthcoming chapbook, "Recollection Graffiti." McGuigan read from new works and selections from his chapbook, "More Than I Left Behind."

Deborah Rodriguez: 'Kabul Beauty School'

Thu, 14 June 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Author Deborah Rodriguez discussed her new book, "Kabul Beauty School: An American Woman Goes Behind the Veil," Tuesday, April 17 at the Central Library. The book looks at the lives of women in Afghanistan through the lens of the Kabul Beauty School. Rodriguez is director of the Kabul salon.

An evening with Jhumpa Lahiri in conversation with Nancy Pearl

Thu, 4 June 2007 07:30:00 PDT

In this ninth year of the "Seattle Reads" series, The Seattle Public Library selected "The Namesake" by Jhumpa Lahiri. Lahiri visited Seattle May 14-15, to talk with readers about her critically acclaimed first novel.

Seattle librarian Nancy Pearl, former director of the Washington Center for the Book, bestselling author, and regular commentator on National Public Radio and KUOW, interviewed Lahiri on stage at Town Hall.

Nikolai Gogol's 'The Nose,' read by David Wright

Mon, 24 May 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Listen to a "Thrilling Tales" adult story time recorded on Monday, April 2 at the Central Library. One morning a supercilious bureaucrat wakes up to find his nose has vanished, but that's almost normal compared to what happens next! Step into this great 19th century Russian author's version of The Twilight Zone. Gogol's strange tale was recorded in honor of the 2007 Seattle Reads selection, "The Namesake."

Poet and activist Luis J. Rodriguez

Mon, 7 May 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award winning poet and activist Luis J. Rodriguez gave a talk entitled "Imagining Peace and Community in a Time of Violence and Chaos" recorded at Town Hall.

An Afternoon with Jonathan Raban.

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Author Jonathan Raban read from his new novel, "Surveillance," Saturday, March 31 at the Central Library. In his latest work, a post-Sept. 11, 2001, novel set in Seattle a few years in the future, Raban explores the current political climate: national identity cards are mandatory and America has become obsessed with intelligence-gathering.

William Dietrich: 'Napoleon's Pyramids'

Mon, 16 Apr 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Author and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist William Dietrich discussed his new novel, "Napoleon's Pyramids," Wednesday, March 28 at the Central Library. "Napoleon's Pyramids" is a historical thriller set in post-revolutionary France and Egypt. Library Journal called Dietrich's new novel "rousing, swashbuckling fun and proof that a good writer can make history not only interesting but an exhilarating romp."

Tracy Chevalier: 'Burning Bright'

Mon, 9 Apr 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Author Tracy Chevalier read from her new novel, "Burning Bright," on Friday, March 23 at the Central Library. "Burning Bright" follows the Kellaway family as they move in next door to poet and painter William Blake in late 18th-century London.

'A Tribute to Octavia Butler

Mon, 2 Apr 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Listen to "A Tribute to Octavia Butler with Nalo Hopkinson and Friends" that took place on Thursday, March 1 at the Central Library. This event featured readings from Butler's works by her admirers and friends:

author Nalo Hopkinson, actor and director Timeca Briggs, columnist Jerry Large, author Vonda McIntyre, and author Nisi Shawl.

"Poetry on the Buses: An Anthology of Poetry on Wheels 1995-2005"

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library celebrated the release of "Poetry on the Buses: An Anthology of Poetry on Wheels 1995-2005" with readings from the anthology on Sunday, Dec. 10, 2006. Local poets read their work included in the anthology.

Sarah Dunant: 'In the Company of the Courtesan'

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Bestselling author Sarah Dunant read from "In the Company of the Courtesan" on Friday, Feb. 23, at the Central Library. Dunant's historical novel, set in Renaissance Italy, recounts the escapades of the wily dwarf Bucino Teodoldo and his mistress, celebrated courtesan Fiammetta Bianchini.

'Strange Fruit' tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. - Part 2

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library, jazz vocalist Mercedes Nicole and her band, and Seattle jazz guitarist Michael Powers for two performances of "Strange Fruit: A Nina Simone Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr." on Saturday, Jan. 13 at the Central Library. The "Strange Fruit" program chronicles the journey of African-Americans from slavery to freedom through live music, song, images and dance.

'Strange Fruit' tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. - Part 1

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Taylor Branch: "Myth and Miracles from the King Years"

Mon,12 Feb 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Pulitzer Prize-winning author and historian Taylor Branch presented the Library's 2007 A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History, a talk titled "Myth and Miracles from the King Years," Tuesday, Jan. 23 at the Central Library.

Seattle Salutes 2006 National Book Award Winner Tim Egan

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 07:30:00 PDT

The Seattle Public Library, Mayor Greg Nickels, and City Council President Nick Licata paid tribute to Seattle author Tim Egan on Wednesday, Dec. 13, 2006. Egan's "The Worst Hard Time" was named the winner of the 2006 National Book Award in Nonfiction.

Isabel Allende reads from 'Inés of My Soul'

Thur, 18 Jan 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Internationally celebrated author Isabel Allende read fom "Inés of My Soul," her latest work of historical fiction, on Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006 at Town Hall. This Seattle Public Library program was part of a series honoring Hispanic heritage.

Seattle poet Madeline DeFrees celebrates her 87th birthday

Thur, 4 Jan 2007 07:30:00 PDT

Award-winning Seattle poet Madeline DeFrees read from "Spectral Waves: New & Uncollected Poems," her recently published eighth book of poetry, on Saturday, Nov. 18, 2006 at The Seattle Public Library. Joining DeFrees were poets Thomas Aslin and Gary Thompson.

2006 Washington State Book Awards Ceremony

Tue, 19 Dec 2006 07:30:00 PDT

The authors of six outstanding books published by Washington authors in 2005 read from their works at The Central Library on Oct. 18, 2006.

Roya Hakakian reads from 'Journey from the Land of No'

Mon, 4 Dec 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Author Roya Hakakian read from her memoir, "Journey from the Land of No: A Girlhood Caught in Revolutionary Iran," on Tuesday, Nov. 14 at the Central Library.

Jack Straw Writers 10th Anniversary Celebration - Part 2

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Enjoy a rare opportunity to hear readings by some of the Northwest's finest writers.

Anna Quindlen reads from 'Rise and Shine'

Mon, 6 Nov 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Author and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Anna Quindlen read from her new novel, "Rise and Shine," on Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006 at the Central Library.

Jack Straw Writers 10th Anniversary Celebration - Part 1

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Enjoy a rare opportunity to hear readings by some of the Northwest's finest writers.

The September Project Keynote Address: Ray Suarez - "The Immigration Controversy: Why It's Relevant to You."

Mon, 9 Oct 2006 07:00:00 PDT

Ray Suarez, senior correspondent for "The NewsHour" on PBS, discusses the genesis of the immigration controversy and why the issue has proponents and opponents crossing party lines.

Seattle Poet Populist

Fri, 18 Sep 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Seven Seattle poets have been nominated by the city's literary community, but only one will become the 2006-2007 Seattle Poet Populist. This year's seven nominated poets are Anna Maria Hong, Lynn Coffin, John Burgess, Joannie Kervran Stangeland, Jourdan Keith, Barbara Petite, and Crysta Casey.

2006 Seattle Reads: Persepolis - An Evening with Marjane Satrapi

Tue, 5 Sep 2006 07:30:00 PDT

Each year the Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library hosts a major author for a series of free programs. Everyone is invited to participate in "Seattle Reads" (formerly known as "If All of Seattle Read the Same Book") by reading the featured selection, joining in a book group discussion and attending the programs. The 2006 featured work is "Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood" by Marjane Satrapi (Pantheon Books, 2003). Marjane Satrapi visited Seattle May 31 - June 3 for the 2006 "Seattle Reads" series. Listen to Marjane Satrapi speak about her life and writing. This is the "main event" of the 2006 Seattle Reads series.