News Summary
The William & Mary Libraries are set to enhance community engagement through various events, including an author panel discussion and a children’s book talk. The libraries invite public participation in these and other activities to showcase their resources. Additionally, significant exhibits, including one highlighting Lafayette’s honorary degree, focus on educating the public about history. With an open-door policy, the libraries encourage community members to explore their collections and participate in enriching programs.
Williamsburg, VA – The William & Mary Libraries have announced their commitment to fostering community engagement through various upcoming events while also highlighting the accessibility of their campus libraries to the public. The libraries, being part of a public institution, invite community members to participate in a range of activities designed to showcase their resources and collections.
Listeners were informed about two significant events scheduled for the coming months during a recent segment on 92.3 FM the Tide. The first event is an author panel discussion planned for September, designed to bring together authors from varying backgrounds to engage with the public through insightful discussions about their work and experiences. Following that, a children’s author book talk is set for October, encouraging young readers and families to explore the joys of literature.
Another noteworthy event will take place at the Cherokee Garden Library on May 7, 2025, where a celebration will feature a lecture, book signing, and cocktail reception. This event aims to spotlight the library’s expanding collection, which currently encompasses around 40,000 rare and contemporary works related to the Southeastern United States. The event will feature renowned interior designer Charlotte Moss, who will share her insights and inspirations drawn from her journeys through various gardens, further emphasizing the library’s dedication to community and educational experiences.
The Cherokee Garden Library aims to support the acquisition of rare books in its nationally recognized collection, positioning itself as a valuable resource for research and education in the region.
In addition to upcoming events, the William & Mary Libraries are currently hosting a significant exhibit at the Earl Gregg Swem Library. The exhibit centers around Lafayette’s honorary degree, which has returned for display for the first time in 200 years. The exhibit, running until November 15, includes letters, documents, and images that highlight Lafayette’s crucial role in the Virginia Campaign of 1781 and his subsequent tour of the United States in 1824-1825. This installation aims to educate the public about Lafayette’s contributions to American history, along with addressing the historical misspelling of his name on the honorary degree document.
The library seeks to bolster community interest by providing extended hours for public viewing of the Lafayette exhibit. Additionally, various educational activities and ceremonial events have been organized to celebrate Lafayette’s legacy, including traditional Yorktown Day celebrations and a bicentennial dinner.
Another exhibit currently on display, titled “Happy Birthday, William & Mary!”, showcases diverse t-shirt designs that commemorate significant historical events within the College’s 331-year history. These projects aim to highlight previously overlooked narratives, shedding light on important topics such as the College’s integration and its relations with Native American communities.
The William & Mary Libraries’ open-door policy invites everyone to explore their resources, participate in various enriching events, and engage with influential exhibitions that reflect both the history and future of the institution. Members of the public are encouraged to take advantage of the libraries’ offerings, as they continue to play a vital role in promoting education and community involvement.
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Additional Resources
- WYDaily: Hometown Radio Interview with Tami Back and Sara Belmont
- Google Search: William and Mary Libraries
- Atlanta History Center: Cherokee Garden Library Celebration
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Library
- Daily Press: Lafayette’s Degree Returns to William & Mary
- Google News: Lafayette Degree William Mary
- Flat Hat News: Happy Birthday William & Mary
- Google Scholar: William and Mary History
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
