Author Talks

Hagley regularly arranges talks by authors of recent books that draw on or relate to Hagley research collections and that will be of interest to the general public. With topics ranging broadly in the areas of business, culture, and history, these author talks provide a captivating way to learn more about the stories contained in Hagley’s collections.

Author talks begin promptly at 7 p.m. and are held in Hagley’s Soda House building. The talk is followed by an opportunity for audience discussion and purchases of the author’s book. Light refreshments are provided. The event ends by 8:15 p.m.

Use Hagley's Buck Road East entrance off Route 100 in Wilmington, Delaware. Advance registration is free but required; proof of registration may be needed to enter event. Registrations must be made by using the Eventbrite links on each author talk page.

Upcoming Author Talks

2023 - 2024 Series

  • February 29, 2024: Jennifer Black. Branding Trust: Advertising and Trademarks in Nineteenth Century America

    Want to know about the origins of the brands and trademarks that now fill our marketplaces and media? In her author talk on Thursday February 29, Jennifer Black will tell all, drawing from her new book, Branding Trust: Advertising and Trademarks in Nineteenth Century America.

  • May 9, 2024: Roger Biles, Mark Rose. A Good Place to Do Business: The Politics of Downtown Renewal Since 1945

    A Good Place to Do Business: The Politics of Downtown Renewal Since 1945 will be the topic of our May 9 author talk by historians Roger Biles and Mark Rose. Their book chronicles efforts to reinvigorate the downtowns of major American cities in order to reverse the process of urban decline. Commencing with Pittsburgh’s efforts, they explore how these urban “makeovers” promised to increase tourism and generate shopping districts by building sports stadiums, convention centers, downtown parks, and more.

Past Author Talks

2023 - 2024 Series -- View Series PDF

2019 - 2020 Series -- View Series PDF

2017 - 2018 Series -- View Series PDF

2016 - 2017 Series -- View Series PDF

2015 - 2016 Series -- View Series PDF

2014 - 2015 Series -- View Series PDF

2013 - 2014 Series -- View Series PDF