Recorded Programs
John Smolens Book Launch: “Possesion(s)”
December 5, 2025
Livestream at PWPL, December 4, 2025. Three-time Michigan Notable Book writer John Smolens reads from his new collection of short stories, Possession(s), accompanied by special musical guest Bill Hart. The stories in the collection explore the fears, doubts, and uncertainties of the human condition, from the shores of Lake Superior to streets of 19th-century Paris.
Katherine Walker: From Saint to Santa – The Curious History of Claus
December 3, 2025
Celebrated expert on the histories of magic, science, and drama, Dr. Walker traces the surprising evolution of Santa Claus—from a fourth-century bishop known for his charity, to the jolly, red-suited icon of global consumer culture today, exploring how folklore, literature, advertising, and politics shaped the figure we know as Santa Claus.
Matthew Gavin Frank “Submersed” Reading
September 23, 2025
Acclaimed lyric essayist and poet Matthew Gavin Frank reads from and discusses his latest book, "Submersed", an exquisite, lyrical foray into the world of deep-sea divers, the obsession and madness that oceans inspire in us, and the story of submarine inventor Peter Madsen's murder of journalist Kim Wall—a captivating blend of literary prose, science writing, and true crime.
Library Nerds with Words Season 5 Episode 9
September 18, 2025
In the summer movie episode, Ben & Amanda talk summer blockbusters, from sharks to raptors to ghosts, with some Muppets thrown in for fun. Ben, Amanda, and Marty's Book Recommendations: "Jurassic Park" by Michael Crichton (Ben) "Sisters in the Wind" by Angeline Boulley (Amanda) "Raising Hare" by Chole Dalton (Marty)
Artist & Their Art: Sullivan and Wright
September 17, 2025
Peter White Public Library hosts celebrated art historian Ellen Longsworth for this virtual series focused on famous artists, artistic movements, and art. For this event, Ellen will delve into the work of architects Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright.