Programming

Each year, the Charleston Library Society hosts over 200 events ranging from author lectures and concerts to book clubs, children’s programs, and galas. The founding members were an intellectually curious and culturally productive group and their desire to be at the heart of discussions about important issues is a trait that not only continues to resonate with our members today, but also provides the foundation for program development and enrichment.

Renowned guests and speakers have included: David McCullough, Scott Turow, Dorothea Benton Frank, John Grisham, Lord Julian Fellowes, Jon Meacham, Darla Moore, Mayor Joe Riley, John Avlon, violin virtuoso Maestro Matteo Fedeli, Bernard Cornwell, Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, jazz musician and vocalist, Ann Caldwell, Matt Diffee, Life-Long Learning classes with Penn Hagood, Steve Gavel, & Barbara Horlbeck, The Charleston Symphony Orchestra, Emile Pandolfi, local artist, Jonathan Green, Axelrod Research Curator of Ichthyology at the American Museum of Natural History, Melanie Stiassny, Chamber Music Charleston, and the recipient of the 2023 Founders Award, David Rubenstein.