Have you ever wondered about the inspiration for some of your favorite books or the next project from a beloved novelist or nonfiction author? 

The Burlington County Library System (BCLS) is giving library cardholders insider access to dozens of acclaimed writers through its new Virtual Author Speakers Series.

The author talks are available through BCLS’s membership with the Library Speakers Consortium, a partnership that brings bestselling authors and other significant speakers to libraries that might otherwise not have the financial resources to arrange a high-profile appearance. Through the consortium, BCLS cardholders can stream the live, virtual events featuring renown writers from a variety of genres for free. 

It’s the latest online offering from the Burlington County Library System that continues to grow its digital menu of free services and programs.

“Libraries are more than just books on shelves. They ensure everyone has access to information, entertainment, and resources,” said Burlington County Library Commission Chair Jonathan Chebra. “The Virtual Authors Speakers Series is another example of the outstanding programing the Burlington County Library System has created and how our library system continues to evolve to better serve Burlington County residents.”

“From streaming of movies, television shows and animated storybooks to online tutoring and now online author events, the Burlington County Library System has scores of digital programs that benefit local residents,” added Burlington County Commissioner Tom Pullion, the liaison to the library system. “There’s a tremendous value to having a BCLS card. These library programs can enhance residents’ lives without costing them a penny.”

The Virtual Author Speakers Series is free for BCLS cardholders, who must register in advance to attend the online events. After registering, participants can log on and watch the event live during its scheduled time or view a recording of the session afterwards when it is most convenient for their schedules.  The sessions are moderated by consortium representatives. Registered participants can submit questions to authors in advance or submit them live during the events.

The series kicked off earlier this month with several dozen BCLS cardholders registering to attend a virtual visit by Kate Quinn, the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction works The Alice Network, The Huntress, The Rose Code, The Diamond Eye and The Briar Club. She talked about her latest novel, The Astral Library.

“The program has been well received by cardholders who have been very excited about the diverse lineup of authors they can connect with in this virtual space. Some of them are nationally known bestsellers, others are more niche and targeted to specific audiences,” said Burlington County Library System Director Ranjna Das. “Working with the consortium, we’re able to expand our reach to all types of interests. It’s a great partnership and we are looking forward to the exciting lineup of authors who will speak exclusively to BCLS cardholders in April, May and June.”

Some of the upcoming authors participating include:

• Brad Taylor, a retired veteran of the U.S. Army and Special Forces and the New York Times bestselling author of the Pike Logan series and other action-packed spy thrillers, is scheduled to speak on Tuesday, April 14, at 7 PM.
• Miranda Cowley Heller, bestselling author of The Paper Palace novel and What the Deep Water Knows, a collection of poetry, will be the speaker on Wednesday, April 22, at 2 PM.
• Jason Reynolds, a #1 New York Times bestselling author of many award-winning books, including the Newbery Award winning novel in verse, Long Way Down and All American Boys (cowritten with Brendan Kiely); Coach; When I Was the Greatest; The Boy in the Black Suit; Stamped; As Brave as You; For Every One and the Track series (Ghost, Patina, Sunny, and Lu) is scheduled to talk on Thursday, April 30, at 7 PM.
• Marjan Kamali, an internationally acclaimed author of bestseller, The Lion Women of Tehran, The Stationery Shop, and Together Tea, is scheduled to talk on Thursday, May 7, at 7 PM.
• Dr. Vivienne Ming, award-winning theoretical neuroscientist, inventor and author, will speak on Tuesday, May 12, at 2 PM.
• Matt Dinniman, New York Times bestselling author of the wildly popular (and just plain wild) Dungeon Crawler Carl series, will speak on June 11 at 7 PM.

Burlington County residents who lack technology or internet at home can also borrow a Chromebook, tablet or mobile WiFi hotspots through the BCLS technology lending program.

“Burlington County’s libraries are fundamental resource, and they provide a digital lifeline to many low- and moderate-income residents and families that allows them to services that most of us now take for granted,” said Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo. “Our board is proud of what the Burlington County Library System has done to promote accessibility and equity, and we’re thrilled to see how the library continues to expand its digital programming.”