Each year the Library hosts readings, lectures, and discussions by authors and other public figures. You may watch video recordings of recent programs on our YouTube channel. Our archive of audio recordings goes back more than 10 years and includes thousands of memorable Library events.
Seattle Writes – The Art of Dialogue with Nancy Rawles
Nancy Rawles looks at the way dialogue can enliven fiction, nonfiction, plays, screenplays and poetry. She discusses ways in which dialogue can swiftly convey the essence of character, conflict or background information, and offers suggestions for exercises writers can use to practice writing dialogue. Nancy Rawles is the author of My Jim and several other works of fiction, and teacher of Seattle Writes workshops on dialogue and the art of writing feelings. Recorded on Aug. 15, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(00:27:06)
| View transcription (pdf)
Inara Verzemnieks
Award-winning writer Inara Verzemnieks traces the journey of her Latvian family after it broke apart in the wake of World War II in "Among the Living and the Dead." Recorded on July 27, 2017.
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(01:00:14)
| View transcription (pdf)
How Can Seattle "Grow" More Public Space?
People are flocking to Seattle to live and work, but they need public spaces where they play, reflect, exercise and grow. Recorded on July 24, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:09:36)
| View transcription (pdf)
Brooke Williams reads and discusses 'Open Midnight'
A memoir of Utah wilderness, metaphysical transformation, ancestral immigration, and Charles Darwin. Recorded on July 24, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:15:03)
| View transcription (pdf)
Mario Livio discusses "Why?"
Famed scientist Mario Livio will explore the concept of curiosity and explain what he thinks is behind this drive. Recorded on July 20, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(00:43:31)
| View transcription (pdf)
Rhythm of Color Jazz Talk
A free jazz talk led by local jazz legends in conjunction with the 8th floor gallery exhibit "Rhythm of Color." Recorded on July 19, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:41:51)
Clarion West presents Daniel José Older
Join us for a Clarion West-sponsored reading and Q&A with Daniel José Older. Recorded on July 18, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:04:37)
| View transcription (pdf)
Clarion West presents Connie Willis
Clarion West presents science fiction author Connie Willis. Recorded on July 11, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:17:23)
| View transcription (pdf)
A Conversation with Attorney General Bob Ferguson
Join us for a lunchtime interview with WA Attorney General Bob Ferguson conducted by Enrique Cerna, Senior Correspondent from KCTS 9. Recorded on July 11, 2017.
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(00:58:10)
| View transcription (pdf)
'Oh, I Get It': A Documentary Screening & Director and Cast Q&A
Listen to a panel-led Q&A following the screening of the short, documentary film, "Oh, I Get It," featuring the director, Danny Tayara and Seattle celebrities, Ijeoma Oluo and El Sanchez. Recorded on July 5, 2017.
Listen to Audio
(01:26:29)
| View transcription (pdf)