Orcs & Aliens Book Group
Join us for a lively discussion of The Saint of Bright Doors by Vajra Chandrasekera at 7 p.m. Monday, May 12 in the UCPL makerspace. Email Kara at kkrekeler@ucitylibrary.org for more info.
Archives: Events
Ubuntu Day with Wash U African Student Association
Discover and celebrate the cultures of the African continent at this special event in partnership with the African Student Association of Washington University! Play games, create art, complete the scavenger hunt and more at this exciting event! RSVP is suggested but not required by contacting youthservices@ucitylibrary.org or calling the library at 314-727-3150.
Musical Performance: Aida Ade
Join us in the auditorium for a solo musical performance by singer, songwriter and producer, Aida Ade. She is a trauma therapist and classically-trained violist who has transitioned into the world of vocal music. With inspirations ranging from Nina Simone to Chaka Khan, to Sade to Fall Out Boy to Chronixx, Ade displays a truly eclectic sound in each of her works. Her most recent release, “The Unbreakable Aida Ade” is an EP which embodies unique blending of her many musical influences as well as her mental health background. She was recently featured in St. Louis Magazine as one of St. Louis’s most exciting artists and has recently released a debut album. For more information, email reference@ucitylibrary.org or call 314-727-3150. Recommended for adults but open to all ages.
Celebrating a Century of Conservation: Shaw Nature Reserve – Past, Present, Future
Join us in the auditorium for a talk with Quinn Long, Director of Shaw Nature Reserve, who will discuss the history of how the Missouri Botanical Garden acquired this rural land to provide a refuge for plant collections threatened by air pollution–and how it has become a regional leader for ecological restoration, native plant horticulture, and environmental education. The Nature Reserve contributes to a unique visitor experience and fulfills the mission of the Garden towards global plant conservation efforts. Join us as we celebrate the past and look towards a bright future of protecting our regional biodiversity. For more information, email reference@ucitylibrary.org or call 314-727-3150. Intended for adults but open to all ages.
Music Performance: Galeforce Winds
Join us in the auditorium for a musical performance by Galeforce Winds, a local woodwind trio that features a clarinet, flute and bassoon. The group will conduct a performance of newer chamber music and include several works by living women composers. The local musicians are members of the Edwardsville Symphony and perform at recitals and events throughout St. Louis and Illinois. For more information, email reference@ucitylibrary.org or call 314-727-3150. Recommended for adults but open to all ages.
Author Event: Annie Zaleski
Join us for a fascinating discussion with New York Times best-selling author, journalist and editor Annie Zaleski, as she speaks about her latest book, I Got You Babe: A Celebration of Cher. Last year, her book Taylor Swift: The Stories Behind the Songs appeared on both the USA Today and New York Times bestseller lists. Additionally, she has accepted commissions by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to write induction essays for Duran Duran, George Michael and Cher. Zaleski is the former music editor for The Riverfront Times. Books will be availalbe for purchase from Subterranean Books. Recommeded for adults. Auditorium.
Rhythm n’ Books Book Club
This chronicle of the aftermath of The Beatles’ breakup and enduring legacy is “a dark but compelling endnote to rock’s greatest story” (Rolling Stone). A Los Angeles Times Best Book of the Year.
Join us in the Makerspace on Tuesday, December 16 for an in-depth discussion of The One: The Life and Music of James Brown by R.J. Smith
For more information, email kevin@ucitylibrary.org.
Rhythm n’ Books Book Club
The definitive biography of James Brown, the Godfather of Soul, with fascinating findings on his life as a Civil Rights activist, an entrepreneur, and the most innovative musician of our time
Join us in the Makerspace on Tuesday, November 18 for an in-depth discussion of The One: The Life and Music of James Brown by R.J. Smith
For more information, email kevin@ucitylibrary.org.
Rhythm n’ Books Book Club
This is the original book to take these rock legends and place them in the American culture of their time. And now, in 2025, Mystery Train continues its groundbreaking work for a new generation of readers and music lovers.
Join us in the Makerspace on Tuesday, September 16 for an in-depth discussion of Mystery Train: Images of America in Rock n’ Roll Music by Greil Marcus.
For more information, email kevin@ucitylibrary.org.
Rhythm n’ Books Book Club
AN LA TIMES BESTSELLER. Named a Most Anticipated Book by People, Vulture, A.V. Club and OurCulture. One of Glamour‘s Best Summer Beach Reads. A frenetic, gonzo account of Britney Spears’s historic rise and equally tragic fall told by an iconoclastic music journalist.
Join us in the Makerspace on Tuesday, October 21 for an in-depth discussion of Waiting for Britney Spears: A True Story, Allegedly by John Weiss.
For more information, email kevin@ucitylibrary.org.
