Our Story

The Mt. Lebanon Public Library Speaker Series began in 2014 to honor the memory of Joe Wertheim, a long-time library supporter and Board member. Joe was an avid reader, so it was particularly fitting that the Library paid tribute to him through this series, which was initially funded with donations given in his memory. 

The Mt. Lebanon Public Library Speaker Series has attracted thousands of attendees with a line-up of award winning and bestselling authors.

In 2018, we expanded the Speaker Series to include free author talks throughout the year at the library. These talks were very successful, drawing large crowds to hear and meet respected authors.

During the 2020-2021 pandemic, the series went virtual. Angie Cruz, Deesha Philyaw, Mary Alice Monroe, Ed Steck, Shaun Slifer, and Tuhin Das were among the acclaimed and bestselling authors who joined us on Zoom. 

In 2022, we welcomed back a live audience, and continued with that format for a few years.

In 2025 the Mt Lebanon Public Library Speakers Series continued to evolve. We moved from a single larger event, to multiple events at the library over the course of the year. The Series strives to host a range of authors, from Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award Winners to local writers just starting their careers.

Moving forward, we will continue to provide local access to quality speakers while promoting global understanding and a broader cultural awareness.