Appalachian Regional Library - Wilkes County Blog
Appalachian Regional Library Names Russell Taylor as New Director of Libraries
Wednesday, 30 July 2025 16:18
Following a nationwide search, the Appalachian Regional Library Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Russell Taylor as the new Director of Libraries, effective August 4, 2025.
David McCullough’s Truman: Biography at Its Best
Tuesday, 22 July 2025 11:49
by, Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian
In celebration of historian David McCullough’s July 7th birthday, The Reading Trap, our branch library’s book club, embarked on an ambitious literary journey: a “BIG Book Read” of Truman, McCullough’s Pulitzer Prize–winning biography of President Harry S. Truman. Known for his meticulous research, vivid storytelling, and ability to bring historical figures to life, McCullough invites readers into the heart of Truman’s world with a narrative that is both enlightening and engaging. Our group was eager to take on the challenge—and the nearly 1,100 pages—of this sweeping portrait of America’s 33rd president.
Wilkes County Public Library Announces Reduced Hours and Programming Due to Budget Cuts
Thursday, 17 July 2025 15:05
The Wilkes County Board of Commissioners has approved a budget for the fiscal year 2025-26 that reduces library funding by 9%. This reduction equates to $73,404 less than the library’s approved budget for 2024-25. Due to our limited staffing capacity, the library will reduce its operating hours by five hours each week, along with a decrease in staff hours. These changes are essential to maintaining core library services.
Celebrate Colonial Craft Day as Part of Wilkes America 250!
Wednesday, 25 June 2025 09:19
Thursday, July 3 • 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM • Brushy Mountain Ruritan Park
Step back in time and experience the sights, sounds, and stories of early America at a special Colonial Craft Day hosted by the Wilkes County Public Library as part of the America 250 initiative! This family-friendly event on Thursday, July 3 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM offers a hands-on celebration of heritage, tradition, and creativity with something for all ages to enjoy.
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Literary Legends Take Flight: Honoring Katherine Anne Porter & Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Friday, 23 May 2025 12:42
by Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian
As spring turns to summer, we pause to honor two literary figures whose birthdays fall in May and June: the brilliant Katherine Anne Porter and the ever-enchanting Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. Though they wrote in different languages and styles, both authors left lasting imprints on world literature with works that explore memory, mortality, and the invisible threads that bind us.
Grow With Us: Dig Into Summer with Books, Dirt, and a Whole Lot of Heart!
Wednesday, 14 May 2025 14:24
This summer, Wilkes County Public Library is going green—and we mean it literally!
We’re inviting you to roll up your sleeves, grab a trowel, and join us in the garden as we launch our Library Community Gardening Project! Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or you’ve never touched a tomato plant in your life, this is your chance to grow something meaningful, not just vegetables, but community, connection, and a little more sunshine in your life.
Oles Honchar's The Cathedral: Ukraine's Forbidden Monument
Friday, 28 March 2025 10:38
by Suzanne Manners, Wilkes County Librarian
It seems fitting that this book, published in 1968, has been chosen to celebrate the birthday of Oles Honchar (born April 3, 1918), especially given the recent political developments regarding our country's withdrawal of support for the war in Ukraine. While Honchar’s book, "The Cathedral," is not a war novel, it is significant to note that it was banned in Ukraine during the Soviet regime.
Tom Baker: A Vietnam Veteran’s Story
Sunday, 16 March 2025 21:10
Meet Tom Baker at the Wilkes County Public Library on March 28 at 3:30 p.m.
Tom Baker, a celebrated author and dedicated advocate for veterans, brings his compelling stories to life in this special discussion. His works, The Hawk & the Dove and Wannabe Warrior, explore themes of resilience, service, and personal transformation. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from an inspiring storyteller who bridges literature and real-life experiences!