Talks & Lectures

Since 1835, The Mercantile Library has continuously sought out dynamic lecturers and speakers, experts on a wide array of subjects — politics, art, literature, science, religion, and more. And we're still doing that.

Author Sandra Cisneros giving her talk at the Mercantile Library in 2016

Journalist and author Eli Saslow poses for a picture with library Director John Faherty in 2018

Whether it's an author on tour for a new book, academics sharing expertise, or a panel discussion on hot-button topics, you'll find some of the most diverse and fascinating speakers here. Min Jin Lee, Patrick Radden Keefe, Eli Saslow, Sandra Cisneros, Tracy Chevalier, Curtis Sittenfeld, Andrea Wulf, & Beth Macy are just some of the authors who've joined us.