The library has two phenomenal programs in the works that you don’t want to miss! There is no cost to attend either, so what a bonus, right? 

The first event takes place this month, so you’ll want to go ahead and reserve tickets for “Unveiling the Wonders of Egypt,” an evening of amazing discovery with the world’s most famous archaeologist, Dr. Zahi Hawass! Because of the anticipated crowd size, the library will hold the free event Thursday, August 24, 2023 at 6pm at SKyPAC. The night will begin with a 45-minute documentary screening, followed by a lecture and book signing after. We are honored to host this repeat visit by Dr. Zahi Hawass, former Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs of Egypt.

A renowned scholar and passionate preservationist, Dr. Hawass has made many major discoveries during his career, including finding the Tombs of the Pyramid Builders at Giza, the Valley of the Golden Mummies, the Great Pyramid of Khufu at Giza, along with other significant sites. He led the search for the tomb of Cleopatra and Mark Antony and spearheaded excavations that have helped solve many other mysteries buried in the heart of Egypt. His use of modern forensic techniques to locate mummies has been groundbreaking, leading to the identification of the mummy of Queen Hatsheput, finding the family of King Tutankhamun, and solving the murder of Ramesses III. Most recently, he’s lent support to a petition to retrieve Egyptian antiquities from other countries, most notably the Rosetta Stone, currently housed in the British Museum.  

Dr. Hawass is a true ambassador of Egyptian culture and history. His publications and presentations are many, and he’s traveled and lectured extensively to share his life’s work. His presence in the media has established him as the preeminent expert on ancient Egypt, having appeared in series and documentaries on the National Geographic Channel, the Discovery Channel, and the History Channel. He gained significant visibility from the 2010 History Channel series Chasing Mummies. 

This is an exclusive opportunity to experience the magic of history firsthand directly from a living legend. Please join us to be transported to a world of wonder and intrigue, as Dr. Hawass shares the secrets of Egypt’s rich and storied past. Free tickets are available online (warrenpl.org/event/zahi-hawass). 

For another night of amazing entertainment, mark your calendar for “A Jazz Affair: Rory Stuart and Glen Wilson LIVE,” Thursday, September 14, at 6pm at the Capitol. A must-see concert for jazz enthusiasts, this performance will feature an exceptional pair of musicians: New York-based jazz guitarist and composer Rory Stuart and outstanding baritone saxophonist Glenn Wilson. These accomplished jazz veterans perform with unparalleled musical rapport and incredible musical chemistry. Having worked together since the early 1990s, Stuart and Wilson have paired up to captivate audiences for more than three decades.  

Stuart has performed with and composed for a wide range of artists during his career, which began in the early 1980s, and he has received high praise and starred ratings for his recordings. Jazz Times called him “Perhaps THE most innovative straight-ahead jazz guitarist to emerge in years.” In addition to performing extensively, he has also taught workshops all over the world. 

With a career spanning 50 years, Wilson has recorded on a number of jazz labels, with musical legends including Buddy Rich, Tito Puento, Lional Hampton, and many others. Called by All-Music Guide the “unsung hero in modern jazz,” Wilson is the director of Further Jazz (furtherjazz.org), a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving, promoting and perpetuating the art of jazz. 

The library hosts activities throughout the year for a range of ages and is pleased to bring free culturally-engaging opportunities to the community at no charge. If you’d like to be reminded of or stay updated on all our activities, sign up for our online newsletter on the website’s contact page (warrenpl.org/contact). You can also check out our online calendar of events (warrenpl.org/events) and search either by age category or the venue where the program will take place. As always, if you have any questions, reach out in person at any library location or call us at 270-781-4882.

-by Ashley Fowlkes