Rockford Public Library Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:56:04 -0500 https://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org en-us © 2026 Rockford Public Library yes 4b122f3a-963a-59cb-b56f-8e489da19797 podcast@rockfordpubliclibrary.org Rockford Public Library episodic false The Rockford Public Library Podcast brings the heart of our community's literary world directly to you. Join us for engaging conversations with authors, local historians, community leaders, and library experts as we explore diverse perspectives, celebrate storytelling, and give you a behind the scenes look at library operations. Each episode offers insights into books, community resources, upcoming events, and the many ways the Rockford Public Library serves as a hub for learning, creativity, and connection. Whether you're a lifelong library goer or new to the Rockford community, this podcast invites you to discover the transformative power of libraries in today's world. Subscribe now to be part of our ongoing story at Rockford Public Library.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Rockford, IL, Library, Public Library, Books Rockford Public Library podcast@rockfordpubliclibrary.org https://storage.buzzsprout.com/saeij6qnaam16z7usnitt498s4tm?.jpg Rockford Public Library https://www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org Forest City Stories: Neil Bloom on Film, Community, and Rockford Forest City Stories: Neil Bloom on Film, Community, and Rockford What does it take to build a filmmaking community from the ground up in a mid-sized Midwest city? Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, sat down with Neil Bloom- writer, director, and founder of Future Films, and the Rockford Public Library’s newest Artist in Residence - for a conversation about storytelling, ego-free sets, and why he believes Rockford has everything it needs to support a thriv9ng creative community.  Neil talks about his journey from theater kid to filmmaker, the vision behind Forest City cinema Community, what it means to call RPL’s Nordlof Center home, and the five short films he and his collaborators have been quietly building toward a big night on May 30th. This one is for every Rockford creative who’s ever wondered if this city is the right place to make something real.

Tickets to the Neil Bloom Short Film Showcase are $10 at this link. JR Sullivan Theater at RPL’s Nordlof Center, Saturday, May 30th – doors open at 6PM screenings are at 7PM.

 

Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/neil-bloom-short-film-showcase-tickets-1988600601932?aff=oddtdtcreator

]]> What does it take to build a filmmaking community from the ground up in a mid-sized Midwest city? Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, sat down with Neil Bloom- writer, director, and founder of Future Films, and the Rockford Public Library’s newest Artist in Residence - for a conversation about storytelling, ego-free sets, and why he believes Rockford has everything it needs to support a thriv9ng creative community.  Neil talks about his journey from theater kid to filmmaker, the vision behind Forest City cinema Community, what it means to call RPL’s Nordlof Center home, and the five short films he and his collaborators have been quietly building toward a big night on May 30th. This one is for every Rockford creative who’s ever wondered if this city is the right place to make something real.

Tickets to the Neil Bloom Short Film Showcase are $10 at this link. JR Sullivan Theater at RPL’s Nordlof Center, Saturday, May 30th – doors open at 6PM screenings are at 7PM.

 

Eventbrite link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/neil-bloom-short-film-showcase-tickets-1988600601932?aff=oddtdtcreator

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-19245347 Wed, 27 May 2026 12:00:00 -0500 2173 2 4 full false Unearth a Story: Discover Summer Reading at Rockford Public Library Unearth a Story: Discover Summer Reading at Rockford Public Library Kick off summer with curiosity, creativity, and reading! In this episode, East Branch Manager Erin Birdsong joins us to share how the Summer Reading Challenge brings the Rockford community together—one book at a time.

]]> Kick off summer with curiosity, creativity, and reading! In this episode, East Branch Manager Erin Birdsong joins us to share how the Summer Reading Challenge brings the Rockford community together—one book at a time.

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-19146055 Fri, 08 May 2026 10:00:00 -0500 1292 2 3 full false Threads that Bind: Celebrating Ramadan Through Global Fashion Threads that Bind: Celebrating Ramadan Through Global Fashion We’re proud to partner with the Muslim Women of Rockford to celebrate culture, connection, and community at Rockford Public Library. 

In our latest podcast episode, Bridget Finn sits down with Sameena Zahurullah to talk about the special Ramadan Storytimes and the beautiful exhibit, "Threads that Bind: Ramadan, Dress, and Service,"  now on display in the Elias Cosper Gallery. Together, we explore how these programs create space for learning, understanding, and shared experiences across our city.

Listen now and be inspired by the power of partnership.

]]> We’re proud to partner with the Muslim Women of Rockford to celebrate culture, connection, and community at Rockford Public Library. 

In our latest podcast episode, Bridget Finn sits down with Sameena Zahurullah to talk about the special Ramadan Storytimes and the beautiful exhibit, "Threads that Bind: Ramadan, Dress, and Service,"  now on display in the Elias Cosper Gallery. Together, we explore how these programs create space for learning, understanding, and shared experiences across our city.

Listen now and be inspired by the power of partnership.

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-18742610 Tue, 24 Feb 2026 16:00:00 -0600 1165 2 2 full false Early African Americans in Rockford (1834–1871): Uncovering Untold Stories Early African Americans in Rockford (1834–1871): Uncovering Untold Stories We're talking with Rockford Public Library librarian, Sarah Stumpf, about the book African Americans in Early Rockford (1834-1871). This groundbreaking book uncovers the lives, strength, and contributions of Rockford’s earliest Black residents—individuals and families who built foundations of community, culture, and resilience long before the city we know today fully took shape. 

You can pre-order the book using the following link: https://square.link/u/jQrUAJVE

Join us:

February 17 | 6P–7P

Nordlof Center-118 N. Main St., Rockford IL

Celebrate the release of the updated edition of African Americans in Early Rockford by Dr. John Molyneaux with a spirited panel talk about Rockford’s unique black history and keeping it alive for generations to come.  Dr. Molyneaux will be joined by RVC history educator Skip Gilbert, Amanda Becker from the Rockford Historical Society, and Sarah Stumpf from the Rockford Public Library to discuss making this valuable history accessible again and sharing some of their favorite people and stories.  Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signature. 


]]> We're talking with Rockford Public Library librarian, Sarah Stumpf, about the book African Americans in Early Rockford (1834-1871). This groundbreaking book uncovers the lives, strength, and contributions of Rockford’s earliest Black residents—individuals and families who built foundations of community, culture, and resilience long before the city we know today fully took shape. 

You can pre-order the book using the following link: https://square.link/u/jQrUAJVE

Join us:

February 17 | 6P–7P

Nordlof Center-118 N. Main St., Rockford IL

Celebrate the release of the updated edition of African Americans in Early Rockford by Dr. John Molyneaux with a spirited panel talk about Rockford’s unique black history and keeping it alive for generations to come.  Dr. Molyneaux will be joined by RVC history educator Skip Gilbert, Amanda Becker from the Rockford Historical Society, and Sarah Stumpf from the Rockford Public Library to discuss making this valuable history accessible again and sharing some of their favorite people and stories.  Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signature. 


]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-18591605 Fri, 30 Jan 2026 11:00:00 -0600 1807 2 1 full false Rockford Reads: Curated by Your Library Crew Rockford Reads: Curated by Your Library Crew Join us as Rockford Public Library staff share their top picks in three exciting genres: biography, mystery, and science fiction. Whether you’re curious about inspiring life stories, love unraveling thrilling whodunits, or crave adventures in futuristic worlds, we’ve got recommendations that will keep you turning pages. Tune in for insider insights, hidden gems, and books that deserve a spot on your reading list!

Biography Recommendations by Doug Janicke and Lara Griffin: 

The Library Book by Susan Orlean 

Joyride by Susan Orlean 

The Vagabond: A Memoir by Tim Curry 

Yes Please by Amy Poehler 

A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost 

Mystery Recommendations by Heather Gunnel:

The Framed Women of Ardemore House

By Brandi Schillache

Shady Hollow by Juneau Black

Science Fiction recommendations by Sarah Stumpf and Clei Johnson:

All Systems Are Red by Martha Wells 

Full Speed to a Crash Landing by Beth Revis 

American Hippo by Sarah Gailey 

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

An Unkindness of Ghosts by Solomon Rivers

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin 

 

]]> Join us as Rockford Public Library staff share their top picks in three exciting genres: biography, mystery, and science fiction. Whether you’re curious about inspiring life stories, love unraveling thrilling whodunits, or crave adventures in futuristic worlds, we’ve got recommendations that will keep you turning pages. Tune in for insider insights, hidden gems, and books that deserve a spot on your reading list!

Biography Recommendations by Doug Janicke and Lara Griffin: 

The Library Book by Susan Orlean 

Joyride by Susan Orlean 

The Vagabond: A Memoir by Tim Curry 

Yes Please by Amy Poehler 

A Very Punchable Face by Colin Jost 

Mystery Recommendations by Heather Gunnel:

The Framed Women of Ardemore House

By Brandi Schillache

Shady Hollow by Juneau Black

Science Fiction recommendations by Sarah Stumpf and Clei Johnson:

All Systems Are Red by Martha Wells 

Full Speed to a Crash Landing by Beth Revis 

American Hippo by Sarah Gailey 

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

An Unkindness of Ghosts by Solomon Rivers

The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin 

 

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-18359081 Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:00:00 -0600 3670 1 12 full false Pop, Paradox, and Found Objects: A Conversation with Local Artist Brett Whitacre Pop, Paradox, and Found Objects: A Conversation with Local Artist Brett Whitacre  Join us as we sit down with local artist Brett Whitacre to explore his exhibition, Everything’s Fine: cheerfully poking at the disconnect between bright pop imagery and underlying struggles. Brett shares the inspirations behind his work — from vintage Americana and found relics of daily life to salvaged materials like wood, windowpanes, and old televisions. Discover how his cheerful, pop-infused visuals hide deeper reflections on personal, cultural, and societal challenges, and hear about the murals and art pieces that have become landmarks in the Rockford community. Tune in for an inside look at the paradoxes in his art and the stories behind each piece. 

]]>  Join us as we sit down with local artist Brett Whitacre to explore his exhibition, Everything’s Fine: cheerfully poking at the disconnect between bright pop imagery and underlying struggles. Brett shares the inspirations behind his work — from vintage Americana and found relics of daily life to salvaged materials like wood, windowpanes, and old televisions. Discover how his cheerful, pop-infused visuals hide deeper reflections on personal, cultural, and societal challenges, and hear about the murals and art pieces that have become landmarks in the Rockford community. Tune in for an inside look at the paradoxes in his art and the stories behind each piece. 

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17966903 Fri, 10 Oct 2025 09:00:00 -0500 2484 1 11 full false Silenced & Significant– A Conversation with Dave Pedersen on Banned and Challenged Books Silenced & Significant– A Conversation with Dave Pedersen on Banned and Challenged Books  Banned, controversial, essential—Army veteran, poet, author, and owner of the independent bookstore Maze Books, Dave Pedersen joins the RPL Podcast to explore the power of these books. Stay tuned for a great conversation and hear Dave’s banned book recommendations. 

]]>  Banned, controversial, essential—Army veteran, poet, author, and owner of the independent bookstore Maze Books, Dave Pedersen joins the RPL Podcast to explore the power of these books. Stay tuned for a great conversation and hear Dave’s banned book recommendations. 

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17966907 Mon, 06 Oct 2025 16:00:00 -0500 2104 1 10 full false Who Chooses the books? An interview with RPL Librarian Sarah Stumpf Who Chooses the books? An interview with RPL Librarian Sarah Stumpf Ever wonder how Rockford Public Library decides which books make it to the shelves — and how that affects you as a reader? In this episode, I talk with Adult Collections librarian Sarah Stumpf about the behind-the-scenes process of building the collection, from community requests to hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll pick up library lingo like ‘circ,’ ‘weeding,’ and discover how Sarah’s passion ensures the Rockford community is reflected, celebrated, and cared for through every book on the shelf.

]]> Ever wonder how Rockford Public Library decides which books make it to the shelves — and how that affects you as a reader? In this episode, I talk with Adult Collections librarian Sarah Stumpf about the behind-the-scenes process of building the collection, from community requests to hidden gems. Along the way, you’ll pick up library lingo like ‘circ,’ ‘weeding,’ and discover how Sarah’s passion ensures the Rockford community is reflected, celebrated, and cared for through every book on the shelf.

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17811568 Tue, 09 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0500 3127 1 9 full false A New Chapter at the Library–Meet the New Executive Director Anthony Cortez A New Chapter at the Library–Meet the New Executive Director Anthony Cortez We’re excited to introduce you to Anthony Cortez, the new Executive Director of the Rockford Public Library. With a strong background in IT and finance, Anthony is stepping into a role that’s all about connection, creativity, and community impact. In this episode, we’ll talk about his vision for the future of the library and what it means to lead one of Rockford’s most vital public institutions. Whether you’re a library lover or just curious about what’s next for Rockford — this one’s for you.

If you'd like to connect with Anthony Cortez directly you can reach him at: acortez@rockfordpubliclibrary.org

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with others who care about the future of Rockford.

]]> We’re excited to introduce you to Anthony Cortez, the new Executive Director of the Rockford Public Library. With a strong background in IT and finance, Anthony is stepping into a role that’s all about connection, creativity, and community impact. In this episode, we’ll talk about his vision for the future of the library and what it means to lead one of Rockford’s most vital public institutions. Whether you’re a library lover or just curious about what’s next for Rockford — this one’s for you.

If you'd like to connect with Anthony Cortez directly you can reach him at: acortez@rockfordpubliclibrary.org

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a rating or review, and share it with others who care about the future of Rockford.

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17617953 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0500 2012 1 8 full false Smart Library Hacks: Go Digital and Save Big Smart Library Hacks: Go Digital and Save Big In this episode, we’re joined by Katelyn Coombes, Digital Content Specialist at the Rockford Public Library, who shares the inside scoop on the library’s digital offerings. From free e-books and audiobooks to powerful online databases, Katelyn breaks down how these resources can save you money while expanding your access to knowledge and entertainment. Whether you’re a student, a job seeker, or just a curious reader, you’ll learn how to make the most of your Rockford Public Library card—without ever leaving home. 

Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe to the podcast. 

For more information about the Rockford Public Library visit:

www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org

instagram @rplibrary

fb @rockfordpubliclibrary

]]> In this episode, we’re joined by Katelyn Coombes, Digital Content Specialist at the Rockford Public Library, who shares the inside scoop on the library’s digital offerings. From free e-books and audiobooks to powerful online databases, Katelyn breaks down how these resources can save you money while expanding your access to knowledge and entertainment. Whether you’re a student, a job seeker, or just a curious reader, you’ll learn how to make the most of your Rockford Public Library card—without ever leaving home. 

Thanks for listening and be sure to subscribe to the podcast. 

For more information about the Rockford Public Library visit:

www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org

instagram @rplibrary

fb @rockfordpubliclibrary

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17511002 Tue, 15 Jul 2025 16:00:00 -0500 1945 1 7 full false 60 Years of Library Service: A Conversation with Jean Lythgoe 60 Years of Library Service: A Conversation with Jean Lythgoe Jean Lythgoe began her career at Rockford Public Library at just 18 years old. Six decades later, she's become a beloved fixture and true legend of the institution. In this episode, we sit down with Jean to explore how libraries have transformed and her perspective on the importance of libraries today. 

Note: Jean retired shortly before this episode was recorded, capping off an extraordinary 60-year career in public service.

]]> Jean Lythgoe began her career at Rockford Public Library at just 18 years old. Six decades later, she's become a beloved fixture and true legend of the institution. In this episode, we sit down with Jean to explore how libraries have transformed and her perspective on the importance of libraries today. 

Note: Jean retired shortly before this episode was recorded, capping off an extraordinary 60-year career in public service.

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17424312 Mon, 30 Jun 2025 14:00:00 -0500 1556 1 6 full false Fabled Forms: Kristin Beyers’ Dragon Installation in Rockford Fabled Forms: Kristin Beyers’ Dragon Installation in Rockford Artist Kristin Beyers joins us to share the story behind her enchanting dragon installation at the Rockford Public Library — a blend of fantasy, sculpture, and community magic that brings mythical creatures to life among the bookshelves.

Come and visit the dragons in the Youth Services area at the Main Library, 118 N. Main St.

Follow Kristin on Instagram @trallacreative and on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trallacreative

]]> Artist Kristin Beyers joins us to share the story behind her enchanting dragon installation at the Rockford Public Library — a blend of fantasy, sculpture, and community magic that brings mythical creatures to life among the bookshelves.

Come and visit the dragons in the Youth Services area at the Main Library, 118 N. Main St.

Follow Kristin on Instagram @trallacreative and on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/trallacreative

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17241179 Thu, 29 May 2025 11:00:00 -0500 1969 1 5 full false Book Your Summer: Rockford's Summer Reading Challenge Explained Book Your Summer: Rockford's Summer Reading Challenge Explained Join us for an exciting dive into the Rockford Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge! In this episode, we sit down with Erin Birdsong, the Youth Services Manager who's bringing an epic reading adventure to life. Whether you're a curious kid or an adventure-loving adult, RPL's Summer Reading Challenge has something for everyone.

What to Expect:

  • Insider details about the Summer Reading Challenge kick-off
  • Insights from Erin Birdsong on why reading matters
  • Exciting program highlights for both children and adults
  • Tips to make this summer your most literary yet!

From page-turning stories to community connection, discover how the Rockford Public Library is transforming summer reading into an unforgettable journey. Tune in and get ready to turn some pages, make some memories, and join a community-wide reading adventure!

]]> Join us for an exciting dive into the Rockford Public Library's Summer Reading Challenge! In this episode, we sit down with Erin Birdsong, the Youth Services Manager who's bringing an epic reading adventure to life. Whether you're a curious kid or an adventure-loving adult, RPL's Summer Reading Challenge has something for everyone.

What to Expect:

  • Insider details about the Summer Reading Challenge kick-off
  • Insights from Erin Birdsong on why reading matters
  • Exciting program highlights for both children and adults
  • Tips to make this summer your most literary yet!

From page-turning stories to community connection, discover how the Rockford Public Library is transforming summer reading into an unforgettable journey. Tune in and get ready to turn some pages, make some memories, and join a community-wide reading adventure!

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-17119116 Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500 1135 summer reading challenge, summer reading, rockford public library, summer slide 1 4 full false What the Bioswale? Ecological Solutions with Rebecca Olson What the Bioswale? Ecological Solutions with Rebecca Olson We welcome to the podcast Rebecca Olson, a passionate conservationist who has dedicated her career to land and water preservation throughout Northern Illinois and beyond. As the founder and president of Olson Ecological Solutions, a woman-owned consulting firm established in 2006, Rebecca brings extensive expertise in environmental restoration.

Her work focuses on creating, protecting, and enhancing natural spaces that not only serve ecological purposes but also foster meaningful connections between communities and nature. From river corridors and wetlands to neighborhood developments, Rebecca's projects provide essential services like stormwater filtration, flood prevention, and wildlife habitat preservation, while ensuring people have beautiful open spaces to enjoy.

Join us as Rebecca shares about her current project, Rockford bioswales, and discusses how ecological solutions can benefit both our environment and communities.


Olson Ecological Solutions website: https://www.olsonecosolutions.com/

Learn more about the current bioswale project here: 

Watershed Education & Outreach | Engage R1


Sign up for the RPL's Green Efforts newsletter here: eNewsletter Sign Up - Rockford Public Library Make sure to check Green News for the newsletter

 Listen to the episode on: 

 Apple: What the Bioswale? Ecological … - Rockford Public Library - Apple Podcasts

Spotify: What the Bioswale? Ecological Solutions with Rebecca Olson - Rockford Public Library | Podcast on Spotify

]]> We welcome to the podcast Rebecca Olson, a passionate conservationist who has dedicated her career to land and water preservation throughout Northern Illinois and beyond. As the founder and president of Olson Ecological Solutions, a woman-owned consulting firm established in 2006, Rebecca brings extensive expertise in environmental restoration.

Her work focuses on creating, protecting, and enhancing natural spaces that not only serve ecological purposes but also foster meaningful connections between communities and nature. From river corridors and wetlands to neighborhood developments, Rebecca's projects provide essential services like stormwater filtration, flood prevention, and wildlife habitat preservation, while ensuring people have beautiful open spaces to enjoy.

Join us as Rebecca shares about her current project, Rockford bioswales, and discusses how ecological solutions can benefit both our environment and communities.


Olson Ecological Solutions website: https://www.olsonecosolutions.com/

Learn more about the current bioswale project here: 

Watershed Education & Outreach | Engage R1


Sign up for the RPL's Green Efforts newsletter here: eNewsletter Sign Up - Rockford Public Library Make sure to check Green News for the newsletter

 Listen to the episode on: 

 Apple: What the Bioswale? Ecological … - Rockford Public Library - Apple Podcasts

Spotify: What the Bioswale? Ecological Solutions with Rebecca Olson - Rockford Public Library | Podcast on Spotify

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-16992076 Thu, 17 Apr 2025 08:00:00 -0500 2118 1 3 full false Community Spaces: More Than Just Books - An Interview with Rockford Public Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook Community Spaces: More Than Just Books - An Interview with Rockford Public Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook Join Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, as she sits down with Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook to explore the inspiring vision behind the new main library. Discover how thoughtful design and a commitment to accessibility are transforming what a library can mean for an entire community. 

Intro and Outro music is A Short Walk With You by Purrple Cat

You can find it here: Purrple Cat - A Short Walk With You - Free Music Archive 

]]> Join Bridget Finn, RPL Marketing Director, as she sits down with Library Executive Director Lynn Stainbrook to explore the inspiring vision behind the new main library. Discover how thoughtful design and a commitment to accessibility are transforming what a library can mean for an entire community. 

Intro and Outro music is A Short Walk With You by Purrple Cat

You can find it here: Purrple Cat - A Short Walk With You - Free Music Archive 

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-16619372 Wed, 26 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0500 2921 1 2 full false Historian, Dr. Kat Williams and her book All the Way: The Life of Baseball Trailblazer Maybelle Blair Historian, Dr. Kat Williams and her book All the Way: The Life of Baseball Trailblazer Maybelle Blair Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Lara Griffin, RPL podcast host, and historian Dr. Kat Williams. Women's baseball has been a lifelong passion for Kat, beginning when she was a girl playing in the streets and fields around her home. This dedication led her to author three books on women who have been a part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). In this episode, she discusses her latest work, All the Way: The Life of Baseball Trailblazer Maybelle Blair, showcasing her commitment to women's sports and her mission to uncover these hidden stories.

Tune in for this meaningful conversation and mark your calendar for the upcoming event! The Rockford Public Library will host a book launch party on March 21 at the Nordlof Center. Don't miss the opportunity to meet Dr. Williams, purchase your copy of All the Way, and discover Maybelle's incredible journey!

For more information about the Rockford Public Library visit:

www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org

instagram @rplibrary

fb @rockfordpubliclibrary


Intro and Outro music is A Short Walk With You by Purrple Cat

You can find it here: Purrple Cat - A Short Walk With You - Free Music Archive 

]]> Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Lara Griffin, RPL podcast host, and historian Dr. Kat Williams. Women's baseball has been a lifelong passion for Kat, beginning when she was a girl playing in the streets and fields around her home. This dedication led her to author three books on women who have been a part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). In this episode, she discusses her latest work, All the Way: The Life of Baseball Trailblazer Maybelle Blair, showcasing her commitment to women's sports and her mission to uncover these hidden stories.

Tune in for this meaningful conversation and mark your calendar for the upcoming event! The Rockford Public Library will host a book launch party on March 21 at the Nordlof Center. Don't miss the opportunity to meet Dr. Williams, purchase your copy of All the Way, and discover Maybelle's incredible journey!

For more information about the Rockford Public Library visit:

www.rockfordpubliclibrary.org

instagram @rplibrary

fb @rockfordpubliclibrary


Intro and Outro music is A Short Walk With You by Purrple Cat

You can find it here: Purrple Cat - A Short Walk With You - Free Music Archive 

]]> Rockford Public Library Buzzsprout-16773155 Wed, 12 Mar 2025 08:00:00 -0500 1668 1 1 full false