At the Library

Discover the pivotal role of Daniel Coit Gilman, the first president of Johns Hopkins University, in shaping the modern American research university. In this exclusive podcast episode, LFPL and the Filson Historical Society welcome Dr. Michael T. Benson, president of Coastal Carolina University and former president of EKU, for an insightful discussion on his book Daniel Coit Gilman and the Birth of the American Research University.

Recorded live at the Main Library, this conversation explores Gilman’s groundbreaking innovations—from graduate fellowships to research funding and scholarly journals—that transformed U.S. higher education. Learn how his legacy influenced key educational figures like Louisville’s Abraham Flexner and Dr. Hugh Toland, founder of the UC San Francisco medical school.

Whether you're interested in higher education, university history, or educational reform, this episode offers rich historical insights still relevant today.

Listen now to explore how Daniel Coit Gilman’s vision revolutionized universities.

Recorded August 27, 2027

How often does race shape your everyday interactions? In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Kalasia S. Ojeh, Assistant Professor at the University of Louisville's Department of Pan-African Studies, unpacks the complexities of race in our society. Through Race and Place: Understanding Race in Louisville, In Kentucky, and in the U.S., Dr. Ojeh provides a clear history and definition of critical race theory, while exploring how race relations impact our communities, both locally in Louisville and across the nation.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the role race plays in our lives and the broader social landscape.

Recorded: September 29, 2021

Visit us at ⁠⁠https://www.lfpl.org⁠⁠

Join us at the Western Library as Affrilachian poet Bernard Clay shares powerful readings from his debut collection, English Lit. In this compelling episode, Clay delves into over twenty years of poetic work, offering a vivid portrayal of his upbringing in west Louisville and the intricate layers of Black Appalachian identity.

Listen in as Clay’s words bring to life the rich tapestry of his experiences, blending personal history with broader cultural themes. Whether you’re a poetry lover, curious about Appalachian culture, or simply enjoy hearing stories that resonate, this episode is sure to inspire.

Recorded: November 10, 2021

Visit us at ⁠https://www.lfpl.org⁠

Step back into the 19th century and explore the life and legacy of Gideon Shryock, the visionary architect who brought the grandeur of the Greek Revival to Kentucky and the American West. Join co-authors Winfrey P. Blackburn, Jr. and R. Scott Gill as they dive into their groundbreaking book, Gideon Shryock: His Life and Architecture 1802-1880.

In this episode, they share fascinating stories and insights about Shryock’s journey, his triumphs and challenges, and how his work shaped the architectural landscape of an era. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or just love a good story, this discussion is not to be missed!

Recorded: December 5, 2021

Visit us at https://www.lfpl.org

Carmichael’s Bookstore presents civil rights lawyer, professor, and

In this compelling conversation, Former Kentucky Poet Laureate Crystal Wilkinson (Perfect Black) and historian Emily Bingham (My Old Kentucky Home: The Astonishing Life and Reckoning of an Iconic American Song) unravel the complex legacy of Kentucky’s state song, My Old Kentucky Home. Through riveting readings and insightful dialogue, they explore the song’s cultural impact, its controversial history, and its ongoing influence on the identity of the Bluegrass State. This episode offers fresh perspectives on how music, race, and history intertwine in Kentucky's past and present.

Visit us at ⁠⁠https://www.lfpl.org⁠⁠

Recorded: 05-10-2022

Carmichael’s Bookstore presents #1 New York Times bestseller E. Lockhart

Pulitzer Prize winner Geraldine Brooks discusses her captivating historical novel Horse, inspired by the legendary 19th-century racehorse Lexington. Discover how Brooks weaves together art, science, and racing history in this compelling story that spans centuries.

Recorded live at the Main Library, this episode offers unique insights into the author's research and writing process.

#pulitzer #geraldinebrooks #lexington

Visit us at https://www.lfpl.org

Recorded 6-16-2022

In recent years, news headlines about Haiti have covered civil unrest, political assassination, and recovery from earthquakes. However, stories rarely explore the reasons why Haiti has arrived at these critical points.

In this new MyLibraryU Fast Class, Haiti: Historical Trends to Present Tensions, Dr. Charlton Yingling, Associate Professor of History at University of Louisville, will explore highlights from the deep and rich history of Haiti over the past two centuries to better explain the importance of this country and the momentous events taking place there today.

#haiti #history

Visit us at https://www.lfpl.org

Recorded 5/22/24

Join New York Times bestselling author-illustrator Molly Knox Ostertag (The Girl from the Sea, The Witch Boy trilogy) as she sits down with acclaimed graphic novelist Nate Powell for an in-depth conversation about her latest graphic novel, The Deep Dark.

In this captivating discussion, Ostertag delves into the themes of identity, family, love, loss, and the mystical elements that define her storytelling. Perfect for fans of graphic novels, fantasy, and heartfelt coming-of-age tales.

Presented by Carmichael's Bookstore.

#thewitchboy #ostertag #graphicnovel

Visit us at https://www.lfpl.org

Recorded 6-8-2024