Thank you to our generous Sponsors and each one of YOU for supporting, attending and enjoying our 10th Season of Speaking of Books! We are so excited for our next season - stay tuned, our 11th Season of Speaking of Books Author Series will be announced later this Summer.
Speaking of Books Author Series 10th Season
SOLD OUT | Jenna Bush Hager | October 24, 2024
Humanitarian, co-host of TODAY with Hoda and Jenna, literacy advocate, and best-selling author, Hager has written several books including Everything Beautiful In Its Time, a collection of essays paying homage to her beloved grandparents. Thank you to our Jenna Bush Hager Event Sponsor: National First Ladies Library and Museum.
SOLD OUT | David Baldacci | November 18, 2024
In addition to being a global #1 best-selling author, Baldacci is also the co-founder of the Wish You Well Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting literacy efforts across America. He was selected as the 2024 PEN/Faulkner Literary Champion in recognition of his work devoted to literacy advocacy.
SOLD OUT | Wilmer Valderrama | March 6, 2025
Wilmer Valderrama is the star of the #1 TV drama NCIS and beloved from his role on That ‘70s Show. Valderrama’s new book, An American Story: Everyone’s Invited, is the remarkable true story of a young immigrant with a dream to change the world. An actor, producer, and entrepreneur, Valderrama is a leading voice for Latino representation in the United States and beyond.
SOLD OUT |Kimberly Williams-Paisley | April 24, 2025
This actress, producer, and director first lit up the screen in the film Father of the Bride. In 2014, her mother was diagnosed with a rare form of dementia called primary progressive aphasia. In her book, Where the Light Gets In, Williams-Paisley tells the full story of her mother’s illness drawing on her memories of her relationship with the fascinating, successful woman who raised her so well.
Life-changing insights, laughter, learning something new, becoming inspired to tackle the world… These are just a few of the benefits people describe after attending our acclaimed Dr. Audrey Lavin Speaking of Books Author Series at the beautiful Canton Palace Theater.
Since 2016, the Library has brought authors of every genre and background – both up-and-coming and well-known – to meet patrons for FREE. The series is designed to foster community engagement with lively and, at times, challenging conversations. Each bestselling author speaks about their book, followed by a wide-ranging question and answer session.
The series is named for accomplished Stark County-based author, Dr. Audrey Lavin, who is also known internationally for her work in the field of education. Dr. Lavin is a devoted Library supporter and founding member of the Friends of the Library. Her creative talent, knowledge, and devoted service inspire all of us.
We can’t wait to see what the future brings, as this popular series continues to make a powerful impact on our community.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Previous Speakers
Andrew McCarthy
Actor and Author
Director, award-winning travel writer and actor Andrew McCarthy made his professional début at 19 in Class. He has appeared in dozens of films, including iconic Pretty in Pink, Less Than Zero, and classic favorites, Weekend at Bernie’s, and Mannequin.
Michelle Williams
Singer and Author
Michelle Williams, Destiny's Child singer and songwriter tells her story of overcoming mental health challenges while under the spotlight of fame and success as a member of one of the biggest recording groups of all-time.
Kate the Chemist
Scientist and Author
Through her theatrical and hands-on approach to teaching, Dr. Kate Biberdorf is breaking down the image of the stereotypical scientist, while reaching students that might otherwise be intimidated by science.
Who is Dr. Audrey Lavin?
This series is named in honor of Dr. Audrey Lavin, our own local “celebrity” author, a globe-trotting academic, a champion of writers, and a tireless supporter of the Library.
She has shown unwavering support for the library mission as a Friends of the Library volunteer and by serving on the Library's foundation for many years. Her commitment to the Library, education, and the art of writing makes her the perfect inspiration for this collection of acclaimed authors.
Sign Up for our eNewsletter
Stay up-to-date with all library news and events by signing up for our eNewsletter.