The Seattle Public Library

Josh Hanagarne, May 20

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Josh Hanagarne discusses his book, "The World's Strongest Librarian: A Memoir of Tourette's, Faith, Strength, and the Power of Family," with Seattle writer and blogger Diane Mapes.

Ursula K. Le Guin and Mariano Martin Rodriguez, May 9

Wed, 5 Jun 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Join Ursula K. Le Guin and Mariano Martin Rodriguez as they briefly discuss translating Gheorghe Sasarman's "Squaring the Circle: A Pseudotreatise of Urbogony" and read stories aloud in English and Spanish

Gregory Martin, May 5

Tue, 28 May 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Gregory Martin discusses his book "Stories for Boys," the 2013 Seattle Reads pick, with readers at the Northeast Branch.

Book-It Repertory Theater reading of Stories for Boys, May 4

Fri, 25 May 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Book-It Repertory Theatre presents staged readings from "Stories for Boys," adapted and directed by Laura Ferri. Author Gregory Martin joins Ferri and cast for a post-performance discussion.

Kate DiCamillo, May 3

Mon, 20 May 2013 15:00:00 PDT

Kate DiCamillo discusses "Bink and Gollie, Best Friends Forever," the third and final book in her award-winning series.

Isabel Allende, April 24

Thu, 16 May 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Isabel Allende tells a troubled coming-of-age story about teenager Maya Vidal, in "Maya's Notebook

A conversation with Granta's 2013 Best Young British Novelists, April 24

Mon, 13 May 2013 8:00:00 PDT

Granta editor John Freeman converses with winners of the 2013 Best Young Novelists series.

Elizabeth Strout, April 19

Thu, 9 May 2013 8:00:00 PDT

In a conversation with Elliott Bay Book Co.'s Rick Simonson, Strout discusses the themes of race, immigration, and class that are woven into "The Burgess Boys," a tale of family loss and the destructive power of secrets.

Caroline Kennedy, April 8

Mon, 6 May 2013 10:00:00 PDT

Caroline Kennedy, students from Writers in the Schools and Washington State Poet Laureate Kathleen Flenniken, present an evening of poetry. Kennedy's book, "Poems to Learn by Heart," discusses the relevance of poetry for children of all ages.

Marci Alboher, April 4

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Looking for a road map to your next career? Join Marci Alboher, author of "The Encore Career Handbook," for a conversation about how to make a living and a difference in the second half of life.

Jamaica Kincaid, April 3

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Jamaica Kincaid reveals a marriage in all its joys and agonies in her book "See Now Then."

Natalie Goldberg, March 23

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Poet, painter, teacher and writer Natalie Goldberg presents in book form what she's been teaching for years in small, intensive workshops.

Rebecca Miller, March 15

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 12:00:00 PDT

Rebecca Miller talks about her latest book, "Jacob's Folly."

Jodi Picoult, March 14

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 14:00:00 PDT

Bestselling author Jodi Picoult reads from her new book, "The Storyteller."

Joyce Carol Oates, March 12

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Joyce Carol Oates reads from her latest novel, "The Accursed," an eerie story of possession, power and loss in early 20th century Princeton, a cultural crossroads of the powerful and the damned.

Madeleine Albright, February 23

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Former U.S. Secretary of State, Madeleine K. Albright, discusses "Prague Winter: A Personal Story of Remembrance and War, 1937-1948."

Lorraine McConaghy & Judy Bentley, February 22

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

In their young adult biography, Judy Bentley and Lorraine McConaghy tell the true story of a 13-year-old slave who escaped from Washington Territory to freedom in Canada on the West's Underground Railroad.

John Wood, February 19

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

"Creating Room to Read: A Story of Hope in the Battle for Global Literacy" tells the inspirational story of a former Microsoft executive's quest to build libraries and promote education around the world.

Michelle Rhee, February 19

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Education reformer Michelle Rhee talks about her new book "Radical: Fighting to Put Students First" and the state of education in the United States.

Colleen McElroy, February 6

Tue, 5 Mar 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Colleen McElroy, award-winning writer of fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry, reads from her newest poetry volume, "Here I Throw Down My Heart."

Carver Gayton, February 9

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 08:00:00 PDT

Carver Clark Gayton reads from a new "facsimile edition" of his great grandfather Lewis George Clarke's slave narrative.

Cory Doctorow, February 5

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 08:00:00 PDT

New York Times bestselling author Cory Doctorow reads from his new young adult novel "Homeland," the sequel to the multiple award-winning "Little Brother."

Aaron Dixon, February 4

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 12:00:00 PDT

Aaron Dixon, author of "My People Are Rising: Memoir of a Black Panther Party Captain," reads from his book and talks about his experiences and the history of the Black Panther Party in Seattle.

Clay Jenkinson, December 1

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:00:00 PDT

Humanities scholar and Chautauquan Clay Jenkinson presents a debate between Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States, and Theodore Roosevelt, 26th president of the United States.

Thomas Ricks, November 16

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 16:00:00 PDT

Thomas Ricks explores why history has been kind to the American generals of World War II and less kind to the generals of the wars that followed.

Steven Roby, November 26

Tue, 11 Dec 2012 12:15:00 PDT

"Hendrix on Hendrix" includes the most important interviews from the peak of Jimi Hendrix's career, carefully selected by one of the world's leading Hendrix historians, Steven Roby.

Mark Bowden, November 14

Thu, 6 Dec 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Mark Bowden presents a gripping account of the hunt for and elimination of Osama bin Laden.

2012 Jack Straw Writers Program, November 10

Wed, 5 Dec 2012 15:15:00 PDT

Readings by 12 local writers in the 2012 Jack Straw Writers Program.

Restaurant Dreams, November 8

Wed, 5 Dec 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Join The Seattle Times' food writer Nancy Leson for a discussion on how to run a successful restaurant with five local chefs and restaurateurs.

Gary Stroutsos, November 1

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 16:30:00 PDT

Join world flute artist and storyteller Gary Stroutsos for a tribute to the tradition of song and story in the Zuni, Navajo and Salish cultures.

Ellen Forney, November 10

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:45:00 PDT

Cartoonist Ellen Forney discusses her new book "Marbles: Mania, Depression, Michelangelo, and Me," providing a visceral glimpse into the effects of a mood disorder on the artist's work.

Jack Nisbet, November 13

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:45:00 PDT

Jack Nisbet shows images and discusses his latest book, "David Douglas, a Naturalist at Work: An Illustrated Exploration Across Two Centuries in the Pacific Northwest."

A-P Hurd, October 30

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 09:00:00 PDT

A-P Hurd, Seattle-based system dynamics and complex system architecture author, talks about her new book, "The Carbon Efficient City."

Camille Paglia, October 23

Fri, 9 Nov 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Camille Paglia's latest book takes readers on a journey through Western art's defining moments, from the ancient Egyptian tomb of Queen Nefertari to George Lucas' digitally enhanced duel in "Revenge of the Sith."

Gregory Martin, October 16

Tue, 6 Nov 2012 09:30:00 PDT

Gregory Martin reads from his memoir about a father and a son finding a way to build a new relationship with one another after years of suppression and denial are given air and light.

Thrilling Tales, October 2012

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 09:00:00 PDT

To a shell-shocked veteran of the Great War, the Foggy London streets teem with phantoms ... and worse.

Tamara Murphy and John Howie, September 24

Mon, 8 Oct 2012 15:45:00 PDT

Join the creative team of local custom publisher ShinShinChez and chefs Tamara Murphy and John Howie for a lively conversation about the journey of creating a cookbook.

Spencer Quinn, September 18

Fri, 5 Oct 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Spencer Quinn reads from "A Fistful of Collars," the latest in his bestselling Chet and Bernie mystery series.

Junot Díaz, September 17

Tue, 2 Oct 2012 11:00:00 PDT

Junot Díaz reads from "This Is How You Lose Her," his first book since winning the Pulitzer Prize for "The Brief Wondrous Life of Oscar Wao."

Martin Amis, September 15

Mon, 1 Oct 2012 13:30:00 PDT

Martin Amis reads from "Lionel Asbo," a satire of modern society and celebrity culture.

Ivan Doig, September 10

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 14:45:00 PDT

Ivan Doig's "The Bartender's Tale" tells the story of a father and son left on their own in a shifting world.

Gerald Chertavian, August 1

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 15:00:00 PDT

Year Up founder Gerald Chertavian tells how a pioneering program is redefining urban young adults as economic assets, not deficits.

Thrilling Tales, August 6

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:30:00 PDT

This tale of love and revenge in the Circus side-show was the basis for Tod Browning's infamous cult movie, "Freaks."

Kirsten Grind, July 26

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Seattle Times economics columnist Jon Talton moderates an on stage conversation with journalist Kirsten Grind, who traces the rise and spectacular fall of Washington Mutual Bank.

Daniel Silva, July 23

Tue, 7 Aug 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Join Daniel Silva in conversation with popular cultural commentator, Warren Etheredge, as they discuss Silva's latest book, "The Fallen Angel."

Karen Thompson Walker, July 21

Fri, 3 Aug 2012 08:00:00 PDT

Karen Thompson Walker reads from "The Age of Miracles," a debut novel of speculative fiction and coming-of-age.

Caspar Babypants, July 25

Thu, 2 Aug 2012 13:30:00 PDT

Dance, wriggle and laugh during this live musical performance of funny songs that feature sing along elements and call and response themes.

Chris Cleave, July 20

Wed, 1 Aug 2012 16:30:00 PDT

Chris Cleave reads from "Gold," a story about the friendship and rivalry between two Olympic athletes, Kate and Zoe, as they experience love, marriage, parenthood, trauma and recovery.

Joy Harjo, July 11

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:15:00 PDT

Joy Harjo reads from her memoir -- a story about family, a hardscrabble youth, young adulthood, and her journey to become an award-winning poet and musician.

Tales and Dreams from the River of Stars, July 11

Tue, 24 Jul 2012 16:00:00 PDT

Eth-Noh-Tec's collection of stories casts a magical spell of starlight, fantasy and imagination on the young and young-at-heart.

Kate Wilhelm, June 29

Fri, 13 Jul 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Author Kate Wilhelm reads from her new book, "Whisper Her Name."

Terry Tempest Williams, June 22

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 08:45:00 PDT

Terry Tempest Williams ponders the meaning of her mother's journals full of blank pages in a new memoir, "When Women Were Birds: 54 Variations on Voice."

Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, June 18

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Acclaimed sociologist Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot looks at the moments both large and small that define how we transition through our lives.

Frank Deford, June 14

Fri, 6 Jul 2012 07:45:00 PDT

The celebrated sportswriter looks back on a remarkable career in which he has chronicled the heroes and the characters of just about every sport in nearly every medium.

Aimee Phan, June 12

Mon, 18 Jun 2012 10:15:00 PDT

Aimee Phan talks about her new novel "The Reeducation of Cherry Troung," the story of a young woman who journeys back to Vietnam in search of her brother and uncovers her family's decades-old secrets.

Richard Ford, June 4

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Pulitzer Prize winning novelist Richard Ford reads from his much anticipated new novel, "Canada."

Thrilling Tales, May 21

Tue, 5 Jun 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Today's story is "The Interruption" by W.W. Jacobs. He had seen his wife safely to her grave, and yet his troubles were just beginning.

Thomas Graham Jr., May 20

Mon, 4 Jun 2012 10:00:00 PDT

Thomas Graham Jr. discusses "Unending Crisis: National Security Policy After 9/11," which examines the George W. Bush administration's foreign policy.

John Irving, May 17

Wed, 30 May 2012 09:00:00 PDT

John Irving reads from "In One Person," a portrait of the life and loves of a bisexual man, and the mutability of gender and desire.

Book-It Repertory Theatre, May 4

Tue, 29 May 2012 09:15:00 PDT

Book-It Repertory Theatre presents staged readings from Amy Waldman's "The Submission," adapted by Rachel Atkins and directed by Book-It director of touring, Annie Lareau.

Lucia Perillo, May 12

Thu, 24 May 2012 09:15:00 PDT

Lucia Perillo reads from from new poetry and debut fiction, "On the Spectrum of Possible Deaths" and "Happiness Is a Chemical in the Brain: Stories".

Steve Coll, May 9

Wed, 23 May 2012 16:20:00 PDT

Two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Steve Coll goes deep inside the largest, most powerful private corporation in the U.S. Coll discusses "Private Empire: ExxonMobil and American Power" at the Central Library.

Amy Waldman, May 5

Tue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 PDT

Amy Waldman's acclaimed debut novel asks hard questions about the American values of tolerance, diversity, and community. Amy discusses "The Submission" at the Ballard Branch as part of Seattle Reads.

Amy Waldman, May 4

Mon, 21 May 2012 12:30:00 PDT

Amy Waldman's acclaimed debut novel asks hard questions about the American values of tolerance, diversity, and community. Amy discusses "The Submission" at the Central Library as part of Seattle Reads.

Julia Alvarez, April 20

Fri, 11 May 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Julia Alvarez talks about her travel memoir "A Wedding in Haiti" that details trips to Haiti, to attend her young friend Piti's wedding and later to see if the family survived the earthquake.

Sydney Dobson, April 25

Wed, 9 May 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Sydney Dobson shows images and describes the process of developing the Oklahoma City Memorial.

Sa'ad Ansari, April 12

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Join Sa'ad Ansari and Steve Scher, host of KUOW's "Weekday," for an onstage conversation about Park51 Community Center. In 2010, plans for this Islamic community center two blocks from ground zero exploded into controversy.

Judy D. Simon, April 4

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 10:30:00 PDT

You don't have to spend your entire budget to eat healthy foods -- get tips on how to buy good-for-you foods on a tight budget. Judy D. Simon, a dietitian and nutritionist at the UW Medical Center, gives practical and nutritional tips that stretch your pocket book and expand your healthy food choices.

Douglas Adkins, March 28

Tue, 17 Apr 2012 15:30:00 PDT

Douglas Adkins explores the history of Dorade, the most famous ocean racing yacht in the world.

Daniel Okrent, April 2

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 10:30:00 PDT

The 2012 A. Scott Bullitt Lecture in American History. Historian and journalist Daniel Okrent discusses "Last Call: The Rise and Fall of Prohibition" onstage with KUOW Public Radio's Steve Scher.

Geoff Dyer, March 16

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Geoff Dyer explores the mysteries of a film that has haunted him ever since he saw it 30 years ago.

Jodi Picoult, March 8

Mon, 26 Mar 2012 11:30:00 PDT

New York Times bestselling novelist Jodi Picoult reads from her newest novel, "Lone Wolf" -- a taut, engrossing family drama exploring ethical dilemmas.

Jay and Maureen Neitz, March 7

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 08:30:00 PDT

Colorblindness can mean job loss for those in professions that require color vision, including police, firefighters, pilots and food inspectors. However: doctors Jay and Maureen Neitz, a husband-and-wife team of ophthalmologists at the UW Medicine Eye Institute, believe a cure for color blindness is on its way.

Jim Yardley, February 21

Fri, 9 Mar 2012 14:00:00 PDT

Author Jim Yardley discusses "Brave Dragons: A Chinese Basketball Team, an American Coach, and Two Cultures Clashing" with basketball coach Bob Weiss.

Thrilling Tales, March 2012

Thu, 8 Mar 2012 12:00:00 PDT

Need a mid-day break? Every first and third Monday, you can laugh, gasp and shudder to live readings of captivating short stories from a wide range of popular and literary authors. This week's featured stories are: "The Queen of Spades" by Alexander Pushkin and "The Bet" by Anton Chekhov.

J.A. Jance, February 15

Tue, 6 Mar 2012 11:30:00 PDT

J.A. Jance talks about "Left for Dead," her 44th published mystery.

Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer, February 7

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 09:00:00 PDT

Join co-authors Eric Liu and Nick Hanauer for a lively civic discussion of "The Gardens of Democracy: A New American Story of Citizenship, the Economy, and the Role of Government."

Dermot Fitzgibbon, February 1

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 12:00:00 PDT

Dermot Fitzgibbon, m.b.b.ch., will teach you what modalities are used to manage pain for surgery and cancer, as well as to improve your quality of life.

Stewart O'Nan, January 30

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 14:00:00 PDT

Stewart O'Nan reads from his new novel, "The Odds: A Love Story," a bittersweet look at a married couple struggling in uncertain times and trying to give their love a second chance.

Xi Chuan, January 9

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 15:00:00 PDT

Xi Chuan reads selections from a new chapbook, "Yours Truly & Other Poems," "Notes on the Mosquito: Selected Poems" (forthcoming in 2012) and other works.

Richard White, December 9

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 13:00:00 PDT

American historian and MacArthur fellow Richard White discusses "Railroaded: The Transcontinentals and the Making of Modern America" with KUOW Public Radio "Weekday" host Steve Scher.

David Tirschwell, December 7

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 09:30:00 PDT

David Tirschwell, M.D., will talk about prevention, symptoms, diagnosis and outcomes after a stroke.

Clay Jenkinson, December 4

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 15:15:00 PDT

Clay Jenkinson presents his portrayal of Meriwether Lewis, who with his friend William Clark, led the most successful exploration of American history -- one that made Lewis and Clark and Sacagawea principle figures in American mythology.

Peter Sis, November 22

Fri, 9 Dec 2011 10:30:00 PDT

In his first book for adults, celebrated children's book author and illustrator Sis presents an illustrated adaptation of a 12th century Sufi epic poem, "The Conference of the Birds."

Fariba Nawa, November 20

Wed, 7 Dec 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Afghan American journalist Fariba Nawa discusses "Opium Nation: Child Brides, Drug Lords, and One Woman's Journey Through Afghanistan."

Langston Hughes: Poems at Play, November 12

Mon, 5 Dec 2011 09:30:00 PDT

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Broadway debut of "Black Nativity," come preview this year's Seattle Theatre Group performance of "Black Nativity" and hear Langston Hughes' poetry.

The Seattle Times 'Scoop' on Food, November 10

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:30:00 PDT

Join The Seattle Times and luminaries of the local food scene for a lively conversation about what it's like to both create and write about cuisine in the Pacific Northwest. Karen Gaudette moderates a panel that features: Nancy Leson, Kathy Casey, Greg Atkinson, and Matthew Amster-Burton.

Jack Straw Writers Program, November 5

Mon, 28 Nov 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Readings by 10 local writers in the 2011 Jack Straw Writers Program. This event featured readings by: Nassim Assefi, Donald Fels, Debra Jarvis, Robert Lamirande, Anne McDuffie, Annette Spaulding-Convy, Harold Taw, Ann Teplick, Nora Wendl, and Maritess Zurbano.

John Flanagan, November 4

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 10:00:00 PDT

John Flanagan, author of "The Ranger's Apprentice" series reads from "The Outcasts," his new Brotherband Chronicles set in the world of Skandians and Araluens.

Hakim Said, November 2

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 10:00:00 PDT

Receive up-to-date and reliable advice on the latest plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures from Hakim Said, M.D., assistant professor at the University of Washington.

Jeffrey Eugenides, October 17

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Jeffrey Eugenides reads from his new novel, "The Marriage Plot," one of the most highly anticipated novels of the fall, a story about college, literature and love.

Anne Enright, October 13

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:45:00 PDT

Anne Enright reads from her new novel, "The Forgotten Waltz." This is a story about obsession, passion, love, family ties, marriage and middle age.

Estate Planning 101, October 12

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 16:15:00 PDT

Guest speaker Kristi Mathisen, managing director of tax and financial planning at Laird Norton Tyee, provides up-to-date information for all your estate planning needs.

Peter Stekel, October 11

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 08:15:00 PDT

In 2005, two mountaineers climbing above a glacier in the High Sierra found the mummified remains of a man in a WWII uniform. Author Peter Stekel talks about the events from his book "Final Flight: The Mystery of a WWII Plane Crash and the Frozen Airmen in the High Sierra."

Art Spiegelman, October 8

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning Art Spiegelman for a conversation with Nancy Pearl about Spiegelman's "MetaMaus: A Look Inside a Modern Classic, Maus."

Paula Becker, October 5

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Paula Becker from HistoryLink talks about how she used archives to research and write about the 50th Anniversary of Century 21 Seattle's Worlds Fair and the 1909 Alaska Yukon Pacific Exposition.

Kim Allison, M.D., October 5

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 17:00:00 PDT

Dr. Kim Allison, Director of Breast Pathology at the University of Washington Medical Center, uses her experience as a cancer survivor to inspire others.

Craig Thompson, October 5

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Craig Thompson discusses his work and shows illustrations from "Habibi." It tells the tale of Dodola and Zam, refugee child slaves bound to each other by chance, by circumstance and by the love that grows between them.

Colin Meloy and Carson Ellis, October 4

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:30:00 PDT

Debut novelist, Colin Meloy and acclaimed artist, Carson Ellis discuss their new book "Wildwood," the first book in an epic middle-grade fantasy series full of magic, wonder and danger set in an alternate version of modern-day Portland, Oregon.

Russell Banks, October 3

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Russell Banks reads from his new novel, "Lost Memory of Skin."

Thrilling Tales, October 3

Tue, 18 Oct 2011 11:30:00 PDT

Every first and third Monday, you can laugh, gasp and shudder to live readings of captivating short stories from a wide range of popular and literary authors. This week's featured story: "The Voice in the Night" by William Hope Hodgson.

Laurence Bergreen, September 28

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:00:00 PDT

Laurence Bergreen discusses his new book "Columbus: The Four Voyages." The first major biography of the iconic explorer in more than sixty years shows the madness and genius that only those who traveled with him could have seen.

David Wertheimer, September 25

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Longtime Seattle resident David Wertheimer will share his passion for antiquarian books as he explores the significance of early printed books from the 15th century in this program, "Movable Type that Moved the World."

Julie Otsuka, September 23

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:30:00 PDT

Julie Otsuka reads from her new novel, "The Buddha in the Attic," which traces the lives of young Japanese mail order brides who travel to San Francisco in the early 1900s to meet their husbands and create new lives in America.

Adam Hochschild, September 20

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 15:00:00 PDT

Adam Hochschild discusses his new book, "To End All Wars: A Story of Loyalty and Rebellion, 1914-1918." He tells the first history of World War I to showcase the war's critics as much as its heroes and victims.

Ingrid Betancourt, September 27

Fri, 7 Oct 2011 13:30:00 PDT

Ingrid Betancourt discusses her memoir, "Even Silence Has an End: My Six Years of Captivity in the Colombian Jungle."

Julie Salamon, September 19

Tue, 4 Oct 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Julie Salamon discusses "Wendy and the Lost Boys: The Uncommon Life of Wendy Wasserstein."

Qingxi Meng Piano Recital, August 20

Tue, 20 Sep 2011 16:00:00 PDT

Meng is a First Prize winner of the American Protege International Piano and Strings Competition 2011. He performed Chopin, Liszt, Schubert, Schumann and some Chinese classical music.

Land that Rock Forgot, August 4

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 13:00:00 PDT

Fast forward to 2012: The ultra high-tech Brian Waite Band is on its way to a gig when the plane crashes on a remote island. Their musical instruments now useless, the band members rediscover the beauty of nature and meet other castaways who teach them about their native music.

Esmeralda Santiago, August 2

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 16:00:00 PDT

Esmeralda Santiago reads from her new novel, "Conquistadora," an epic of love, discovery and adventure.

John Burnham Schwartz, August 1

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 15:00:00 PDT

John Burnham Schwartz reads from his new novel, "Northwest Corner," reintroducing the unforgettable characters from his acclaimed 1999 novel, "Reservation Road."

Viaduct Referendum, August 4

Tue, 9 Aug 2011 16:00:00 PDT

In the August 16 Primary, the citizens of Seattle will be asked to vote on an ordinance "relating to the replacement of the Alaskan Way Viaduct." Join this panel as we discuss the consequences of the vote procedurally and politically.

Seattle Geographies, June 1

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 10:00:00 PDT

In "Seattle Geographies," Michael Brown and Richard Morrill look into Seattle's social, economic, political and cultural geographies, including economic restructuring, gay space, trade with China, skateboarding and P-patches, and homelessness.

World Refugee Day, June 19

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 14:00:00 PDT

In honor of World Refugee Day, former refugees from Burma, Bhutan, Iraq, Somalia and Congo will discuss issues raised by a film and answer questions from the audience. Former refugees and asylees, all of the panelists fled war and persecution in their native lands. Overcoming challenges and resettling here, they now help ease the transition of other newly resettled refugees and asylees.

Lisa See, June 9

Wed, 29 Jun 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Join Lisa See for the story behind "Dreams of Joy" and see the trailer of "Snow Flower and the Secret Fan," a film by Wayne Wang. "Dreams of Joy" continues the story of sisters Pearl and May from "Shanghai Girls," and Pearl's strong-willed 19-year-old daughter, Joy.

Brooke Gladstone and David Boardman, June 8

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 14:30:00 PDT

Join Brooke Gladstone and David Boardman for a conversation about "The Influencing Machine." In a new work of graphic nonfiction, Gladstone bursts onto the page as an illustrated character in vivid comics drawn by acclaimed artist Josh Neufeld. The cartoon of Gladstone conducts the reader through two millennia of media history, from the newspapers in Caesar's Rome to the penny press of the American Revolution and the manipulations of contemporary journalism.

Teresa Gowan, Hustlers and Backsliders, May 18

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 15:00:00 PDT

Teresa Gowan will present an illustrated talk about her five years of field work with homeless men in the most liberal city in America. She vividly depicts the lives of homeless men in San Francisco in her book "Hobos, Hustlers, and Backsliders," where she analyzes the influence of the homelessness industry on the streets, in the shelters, and on public policy.

Erik Larson, May 31

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Erik Larson discusses "In the Garden of Beasts: Love, Terror, and an American Family in Hitler's Berlin." Set on the cusp of World War II, "In the Garden of Beasts" follows American ambassador William E. Dodd and his family to Nazi Germany as they settle in the heart of Hitler's Berlin in a grand old house on the city's central park, the Tiergarten -- in literal translation, the Garden of Beasts.

Seattle Reads: Book-It Repertory Theater, May 13

Fri, 10 Jun 2011 13:30:00 PDT

Book-It Repertory Theatre presents staged readings from Chris Cleave's "Little Bee," adapted and directed by Annie Lareau. Cleave will join the adapter/director and cast for a discussion with the audience.

Chris Cleave, May 14

Thu, 2 Jun 2011 11:30:00 PDT

Meet Chris Cleave and listen to a discussion between readers and writer at the Beacon Hill Branch.

Mary Doria Russell Reading, May 17

Tue, 31 May 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Mary Doria Russell, author of "Dreamers of the Day" and "A Thread of Grace," will read from her new historical novel "Doc." "Doc" is a character study about the famous Old West icon, Doc Holliday, set among his rowdy friends and enemies in 1878 Dodge City. In her reading, the author will give Seattle readers a peek into another time and place while interpreting the character of a conflicted man.

Thrilling Tales, May 2

Fri, 27 May 2011 11:30:00 PDT

Love a good story? Sit back, relax and escape from the everyday as we bring you gripping short stories expertly read, and well-calculated to keep you in suspense. This podcast, enjoy "John Charrington's Wedding" by E. Nesbit: He always vowed he'd be married, dead or alive.

Seattle Reads 'Little Bee': An evening with Chris Cleave, May 13

Thu, 26 May 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Join us for the main event of Seattle Reads "Little Bee": An Evening with Chris Cleave. Two narrators tell a story, both heartbreaking and heartwarming, about how their lives are forever changed and linked when they meet one fateful day on a beach in Nigeria - Little Bee, a young Nigerian refugee in the UK, and Sarah, posh British magazine editor and mother of four-year-old Charlie, who refuses to take off his Batman costume.

Meg Wolitzer: 'The Uncoupling'

Tue, 24 May 2011 13:00:00 PDT

Meg Wolitzer read from her latest novel, "The Uncoupling" on Apr. 11, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. From the New York Times-bestselling author of The Ten-Year Nap" comes a provocative and witty new novel about female desire. When the new drama teacher at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Stellar Plains, New Jersey chooses for the school play Lysistrata -- the Aristophanes comedy where women stop having sex with men in order to stop war -- a strange spell seems to be cast over the community.

Marc Freedman: 'The Big Shift'

Fri, 20 May 2011 11:30:00 PDT

Marc Freedman discussed "The Big Shift: Navigating the New Stage Between Midlife and Old Age" on Apr. 27, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Marc Freedman, social entrepreneur, founder and CEO of Civic Ventures, offers tips for how to transform America's coming midlife crisis into an opportunity for individuals and society.

Native Seattle, First Nations Vancouver, Indigenous London: A Historian's Itinerary May 1

Thu, 12 May 2011 16:00:00 PDT

Discover the world of London through the eyes of a Native American who has been taken there as a "curiosity" by new owners. Coll Thrush will talk about his new research on the travels of indigenous Native Americans to London in the 18th century. This event is co-sponsored by the Book Club of Washington.

Seattle Reads 'Little Bee': Uchechi Kalu and E.C. Osondu

Tue, 10 May 2011 11:00:00 PDT

Nigerian-born authors Uchechi Kalu and E.C. Osondu read from their debut works on Apr. 20, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Uchechi Kalu read from "Flowers Blooming Against a Bruised Gray Sky," a debut collection of poems. E.C. Osondu read from "Voice of America," winner of the prestigious Caine Prize for African Writing. This event is part of Seattle Reads "Little Bee," a program of the Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library. Seattle Reads is designed to foster reading and discussion of works by authors of diverse cultures and ethnicities.

Seattle Reads 'Little Bee': 'Asylum-Seekers and Immigration Detention in Our Region'

Fri, 6 May 2011 14:30:00 PDT

Join the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project (NWIRP) for a discussion of the experiences of asylum-seekers in our community recorded on Apr. 13, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Jorge L. Barón, executive director of NWIRP, will lead a discussion on the experiences of asylum-seekers who are held at the Northwest Detention Center, an immigration detention facility in Tacoma, and on the challenges that those who flee persecution in their homelands face when they arrive in this country. This event is part of Seattle Reads "Little Bee," a program of the Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library. Seattle Reads is designed to foster reading and discussion of works by authors of diverse cultures and ethnicities.

Howard Jacobson: 'The Finkler Question'

Wed, 4 May 2011 16:00:00 PDT

Howard Jacobson read from "The Finkler Question," winner of the 2010 Man Booker Prize on Apr. 12, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Childhood friends Julian Treslove, a radio producer, and Samuel Finkler, a Jewish philosopher, enter middle age and reminisce over their struggles with self-identity, anti-Semitism, women, love and the past.

'Seattle In Black and White'

Mon, 2 May 2011 11:00:00 PDT

Joan Singler, Maid Adams, Jean Durning and Bettylou Valentine gave first-hand accounts of local civil rights activism from members in the Seattle Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) on Apr. 3, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. In 1960, Seattle was effectively a segregated town with no black bus drivers, sales clerks, or bank tellers. In the new book "Seattle in Black and White: The Congress of Racial Equality and the Fight for Equal Opportunity," the many challenges to this unfair system are documented.

Henning Mankell reads from "The Troubled Man"

Wed, 27 Apr 2011 11:45:00 PDT

Internationally-bestselling Swedish author of the the Kurt Wallander mysteries, Henning Mankell, read from "The Troubled Man" on Apr. 8, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. A retired high-ranking naval officer vanishes in a forest near Stockholm. The official investigation has nothing to do with Detective Kurt Wallander, but the man who disappeared is his daughter's future father-in-law. Soon Wallander finds himself caught up in elaborate Cold War espionage activities.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'It's a Team Effort to Help Those With ADHD'

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:00:00 PDT

Christopher K. Varley, M.D., professor of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, UW Medicine, defined attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and shared his ideas on managing symptoms and redirecting energy toward constructive and educational paths on Apr. 6, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. This event series was co-sponsored with UW Medicine.

Charitable Gift Planning Workshop

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 12:30:00 PDT

Learn more about the types of gifts you can make and how changes in the 2011 tax laws will affect your philanthropic giving by listening to this charitable gift planning workshop held March 22, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Guest speaker Akane R. Suzuki of Garvey Schubert Barer, Chair of the law firm's Estate Planning, Probate and Estate Litigation Group, brings expertise and insight to help you support your passion with your philanthropy.

'Design in Depth: Urban Agriculture'

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 14:30:00 PDT

"Urban Agriculture", the final program in the six-part "Design in Depth: Solving Problems with Design" series, featured a panel discussion of local organizations on March 22, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Local experts from Mithun, the P-Patch Trust, Alleycat Acres and other organizations discussed the successes and challenges of their unique design processes as well as the many benefits of locally grown food. This program was co-sponsored with the Seattle Architectural Foundation.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 8

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 11:30:00 PDT

A trio of librarians share what they've been reading, including "Revolver" by Marcus Sedgwick, "Ask Me Why I Hurt" by Dr. Randy Christensen, and "Occupied City" by David Peace.

Alexander McCall Smith: 'The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party'

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Alexander McCall Smith read from "The Saturday Big Tent Wedding Party" on April 1, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Alexander McCall Smith is the author of the international phenomenon, "The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency" series, the "Isabel Dalhousie Series," the "Portuguese Irregular Verbs" series, and the "44 Scotland Street" series.

Ursula K. Le Guin and Roger Dorband: 'Out Here: Poems and Images from Steens Mountain Country'

Thu, 7 Apr 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Ursula K. Le Guin read poems and Roger Dorband showed photographs from "Out Here" on March 23, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Le Guin is an award-winning poet and author. Dorband is a Northwest photographer.

Thrilling Tales, the Story Time for Grownups | March 7, 2011

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 15:30:00 PDT

"Jean-ah Poquelin" by George Washington Cable. Laissez les bon temps rouler! In this gothic tale set in New Orleans, raucous revelers throw a party fit to raise the dead.

Violin virtuoso Mark O'Connor

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 11:00:00 PDT

Seattle-native Mark O'Connor, a world-renowned jazz violinist/folk fiddler and Grammy-winning composer, played modern classical music and talked about his craft on Jan. 28, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Widely and well known as one of America's more inventive and innovative composers, Mark O'Connor discussed and demonstrated his American style of string playing, his improvisational abilities and the process of composition.

T.C. Boyle: 'When the Killing's Done'

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 09:30:00 PDT

T.C. Boyle read from "When the Killing's Done" on March 1, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. In Boyle's latest novel, California's Galapagos, the wild Northern Channel Islands off the coast of Santa Barbara, become the setting for a dramatic showdown between two factions of environmentalists, each utterly convinced of their beliefs in preserving the islands and the natural world. T.C. Boyle is the author of 12 novels including most recently, "The Women," a New York Times bestseller, and nine collections of short stories.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 7

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Librarians Misha and David are joined by author Jennifer Worick to discuss publishing, and "Publish Your Passion," an upcoming program at the Library, for everyone who has a book inside them longing to get out. They also share what they've been reading, including Josephine Tey's "The Daughter of Time," "A Discovery of Witches," by Deborah Harkness, and "The Chronology of Water," by Lidia Yuknavitch.

Graham Salisbury: 'Calvin Coconut: Trouble Magnet'

Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:30:00 PDT

Graham Salisbury, Global Reading Challenge guest author, spoke to students from seven Global Reading Challenge schools about growing up in Hawaii and being a writer on Thursday, February 17, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'New Treatments in the Pipeline for Parkinson's Patients'

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Hojoong (Mike) Kim, M.D., acting, assistant professor, department of Neurology, discussed new studies and treatments that involve pharmaceutics, gene therapy and stem cell transplantation.

Jamie Ford: 'Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet'

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 08:30:00 PDT

Jamie Ford read from his bestselling novel, "Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet," on Feb. 6, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Jack Hamann: 'On American Soil'

Fri, 4 Mar 2011 16:00:00 PDT

Award-winning journalist Jack Hamann discussed "On American Soil: How Justice Became a Casualty of World War II" on Feb. 13, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Trailblazing Photojournalist Margaret Bourke-White'

Wed, 2 Mar 2011 11:00:00 PDT

Lynne Iglitzin gave an an illustrated talk about Margaret Bourke-White, one of the most famous women of the 20th century, on Feb. 5, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Russell Simmons: 'Super Rich'

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Hip hop mogul Russell Simmons discussed "Super Rich: A Guide to Having It All," written with Chris Morrow, on Feb. 24, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Douglas Brinkley: 'The Quiet World'

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 09:30:00 PDT

Award-winning historian Douglas Brinkley discussed "The Quiet World: Saving Alaska's Wilderness Kingdom, 1879-1960" on Feb. 4, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Alice Hoffman: 'The Red Garden'

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 10:30:00 PDT

Bestselling novelist Alice Hoffman read from her latest novel "The Red Garden" on Feb. 3, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. In a series of linked, consecutive stories, Hoffman traces the life of Blackwell, Massachusetts, a mythical town in the Berkshire Mountains, from its founding up to the present.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'Harnessing the Body's Own Healing Potential'

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 09:00:00 PDT

Kim Harmon, M.D., UW Sports Medicine at Hall Health, talked about how to jump-start the body's own healing processes with a new procedure called platelet rich plasma therapy (PRP) on Feb. 2, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library.

Edmund Morris: 'Colonel Roosevelt'

Tue, 8 Feb 2011 14:00:00 PDT

Historian Edmund Morris discussed his new biography, "Colonel Roosevelt," on Jan. 26, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Thirty years after Morris published his Pulitzer Prize-winning "The Rise of Theodore Roosevelt" and the bestseller "Theodore Rex," he has written the third and final volume of one of the most indelible and significant figures in American history.

'Design in Depth: Sustainable Urban Lighting'

Thu, 3 Feb 2011 14:00:00 PDT

Denise Fong presented "Sustainable Urban Lighting," the fourth program in the six-part "Design in Depth: Solving Problems with Design" series, on Jan. 25, 2011 at The Seattle Public Library. Denise Fong, a lighting designer and Principal with Candela, shared her passion for sustainable design and discussed current studies on sustainable community design and pilot projects. This program was co-sponsored with the Seattle Architectural Foundation.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 6

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 15:00:00 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.

'Technology and Tweens: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly'

Thu, 13 Jan 2011 10:30:00 PDT

Margit Crane, Teen and Family Coach, highlights the ways that social media sites and technology are misdirecting tween girls -- and what families can do about it. This program on Oct. 28, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library is for tween girls, their parents and anyone who works with them.

McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series: Clay Jenkinson portrays J. Robert Oppenheimer

Wed, 5 Jan 2011 14:30:00 PDT

Clay Jenkinson presented his portrayal of J. Robert Oppenheimer, American physicist and father of the atomic bomb, on Dec. 3, 2010 at Town Hall as part of the McLellan/O'Donnell Living History Series.

Aífe Murray: 'Maid as Muse: How Servants Changed Emily Dickinson's Life and Language'

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 12:30:00 PDT

Dickinson scholar Aífe Murray read from "Maid as Muse: How Servants Changed Emily Dickinson's Life and Language" on Dec. 9, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Open Secrets: An Open Conversation about Wikileaks and Information Transparency in America'

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 13:30:00 PDT

The UW's Master of Communication of Digital Media (MCDM), in collaboration with The Seattle Public Library and City Club, presented "Open Secrets: An Open Conversation about Wikileaks and Information Transparency in America" on Dec. 10, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

2010 Jack Straw Writers Program

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 15:30:00 PDT

Join the Washington Center for the Book and Jack Straw Productions for readings by literary artists who were selected for the program by curator Jared Leising.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 5

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:00:00 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.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'Baby Boomers Need to Get Smart When it Comes to the Heart'

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 13:00:00 PDT

Larry Dean, M.D., director of the UW Medicine Regional Heart Center, talked about new cardiology interventions, including aortic valve replacement, on Dec. 1, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

'The Lakewood Slayings: A criminal odyssey through race, politics, madness and murder'

Thu, 9 Dec 2010 16:00:00 PDT

Authors Ken Armstrong and Jonathan Martin discussed "The Other Side of Mercy: A Killer's Journey Across the American Divide" on Nov. 19, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Margaret Willson: 'Dance Lest We All Fall Down'

Mon, 6 Dec 2010 16:00:00 PDT

Local author and anthropologist Margaret Willson shared stories from her book, "Dance Lest We All Fall Down", about the creation of the Bahia Street School in Brazil on Nov. 6, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Peter Yarrow

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Peter Yarrow sang classic folk songs for children and families, Peter, Paul & Mary favorites, and songs from his latest books on Nov. 16, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Randall C. Jimerson: 'Collective Memory and Archives'

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 15:00:00 PDT

Randall C. Jimerson talked about "Collective Memory and Archives" as part of The Seattle Public Library's celebration of American Archives Month on Oct. 28, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Andrew Lam: 'East Eats West'

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Andrew Lam read from his newest book, "East Eats West," on Nov. 8, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 4

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 16:15:00 PDT

We've just read Jonathan Franzen's new novel "Freedom," and can't wait to discuss it over coffee. Is it the Great American novel? Tune in and see what we think.

A Conversation with Police Chief John Diaz

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 16:00:00 PDT

John Diaz, Seattle's newest police chief, talked to C.R. Douglas, host and producer of the Seattle Channel, about the Seattle Police Department's goals, challenges and vision on Oct. 28, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'The Gift of Giving: How One Living Donor Can Start a Chain of Transplants'

Fri, 12 Nov 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Connie Davis, M.D., professor of UW Medicine and director of Kidney Care and Transplantation Services at UW Medical Center, explained how organ transplantation works and how just one living donor can start a chain of transplants on Nov. 3, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Ian Frazier: 'Travels in Siberia'

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 16:00:00 PDT

Ian Frazier discussed "Travels in Siberia," a historical travelogue, on Oct. 31, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

'Design in Depth: You+the Built Environment+Design'

Mon, 8 Nov 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Barbara Swift presented "You+the Built Environment+Design," the second program in the six-part "Design in Depth: Solving Problems with Design" series, on Oct. 26, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

David Wright: 'Thrilling Tales'

Thu, 4 Nov 2010 08:30:00 PDT

Listen to "Thrilling Tales," a story time for grown-ups, recorded on Oct. 25, 2010 at the Central Library. David Wright reads two classic ghost stories from 1906: "The Ghost Child," by Bernard Capes, and "The Furnished Room," by O Henry.

'Hiking Washington's History'

Mon, 1 Nov 2010 14:00:00 PDT

Judy Bentley read from her new book "Hiking Washington's History," published by the University of Washington Press, on Oct. 21, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Paul Harding: 'Tinkers'

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Paul Harding read from "Tinkers," winner of the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, on Oct. 20, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Leslie Marmon Silko: 'The Turquoise Ledge: A Memoir'

Wed, 27 Oct 2010 13:00:00 PDT

Leslie Marmon Silko discussed "The Turquoise Ledge: A Memoir" on Oct. 19, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Dinaw Mengestu: 'How to Read the Air'

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 10:30:00 PDT

Dinaw Mengestu read from "How to Read the Air" on Oct. 18, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library. "How to Read the Air" tells a powerful, unsettling story of family and identity in two generations of an Ethiopian American family.

Ron Chernow: 'Washington: A Life'

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 14:30:00 PDT

Ron Chernow discussed his new biography "Washington: A Life" on Oct. 13, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library. Ron Chernow provides a richly nuanced portrait of George Washington in this first large-scale, single volume, cradle-to-grave narrative of the father of our nation. Ron Chernow is the prize-winning author of five previous books.

¡Biblio Loco! Celebrate the Washington State Book Awards

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 13:30:00 PDT

The Washington Center for the Book at The Seattle Public Library presented the 44th annual Washington State Book Awards ceremony on Oct. 8, 2010, recognizing six outstanding books published by Washington authors in 2009.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 3

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:30:00 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.

Medical Lecture Series V: 'Lessons in Lessening your Migraine Pain'

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 16:30:00 PDT

Sylvia Lucas, M.D., Ph.D., founder and director of the Neurology Headache and Multiple Sclerosis Center at UW Medical Center, spoke about what triggers migraines, how to control them and the medications available for treatment on Oct. 6, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Sara Gruen: 'Ape House'

Fri, 8 Oct 2010 10:00:00 PDT

Sara Gruen, author of the international bestseller "Water for Elephants," read from "Ape House" on Sept. 27, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Science Friction: 'Sparring scientists: Is Pluto a planet?'

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 11:00:00 PDT

Alan Boyle, nationally known science blogger at MSNBC and author of "The Case for Pluto," unwraps the recent fights between planetary scientists over how to define a planet on Aug. 29, 2010 at The Seattle Public Library.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 2

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 11:30:00 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.

The World of Jewish Music

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 10:30:00 PDT

Enjoy this beautiful blend of songs performed on Aug. 7, 2010 at the Seattle Public Library in Yiddish, Ladino, Russian, English and Hebrew. Commentary is in English and Russian.

Seattle Biblio Café | Episode 1

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 09:30:00 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 09:00:00 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 09:00:00 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 09:00:00 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 09:00:00 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 09:00:00 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'

Fri, 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 2008 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 2008 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, 5 Dec 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, 26 Nov 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.

'Writing the West'

Wed, 25 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jul 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 Jun 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 Jun 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 Jun 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

Mon, 4 Jun 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

Thu, 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'

Thu, 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

Thu, 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

Mon, 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.