Plaza Branch and Central Library will open late at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17 due to the Kansas City Marathon.
Missouri Valley Sundays
Signature Event
Sunday, November 15, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Historian Tai S. Edwards discusses her new book about Eliza (Lyda) Conley’s fight to protect the cemetery, now known as the Wyandot National Burying Ground, after Congress authorized its sale in 1906.
Signature Event
Sunday, October 25, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Author and historian Greg Olson discusses his new book, examining how Deroine (de-rō-NAY) embodied the complexity of pre-Civil War Missouri and defied expectations and stereotypes of enslaved people in the early 19th century.
Signature Event
Sunday, September 13, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Historian Dustin Gann discusses the 140-year rivalry between Missouri’s two largest metropolises, Kansas City and St. Louis.
Signature Event
Sunday, August 2, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Author and retired attorney Robert Gangwere discusses the history of the American Red Cross’ Clubmobile Service. The group was made up of courageous, female volunteers — including his mother — who delivered coffee and doughnuts to boost the morale of WWII servicemembers in war-torn regions.
Signature Event
Sunday, June 7, 2026
2:00pm
Online
In Person
Starlight Theatre President Lindsey Rood-Clifford shares stories about memorable productions and efforts to keep the 75-year-old performing arts institution strong.
Signature Event
Sunday, May 3, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Historian Michael Wells discusses Kansas City’s culinary tradition of barbecue in partnership with the Historic West Bottoms Association.
Signature Event
Sunday, April 26, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Author Frank Hayde discusses his new book, which examines how labor organizer Sylvia Pagano became a key ally to union boss Jimmy Hoffa and a trusted figure in the American underworld.
Signature Event
Sunday, March 8, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
In 1913, Sarah Rector’s federally allotted land proved oil-rich, making her the wealthiest Black girl in the country. Kansas City historian Diane Euston interviews Rector’s descendants.
Signature Event
Sunday, February 15, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
Entrepreneur, social activist, and political leader Bruce R. Watkins left an indelible mark on Kansas City, advancing civil rights and fighting against discrimination. Bruce R. Watkins Cultural Heritage Center and State Museum executive director Emiel Cleaver discusses his legacy.
Signature Event
Sunday, January 11, 2026
2:00pm
In Person
The University of Kansas basketball program is one of the most storied in college sports. In his new book, Overland Park-based author Chelan David shares some of the greatest moments of KU basketball, the rich tradition of the Jayhawks, and the magic of Allen Fieldhouse.