University Libraries Cultural Programs & Events
As part of its role in fostering and encouraging intellectual engagement on the RWU campus, the University Libraries annually offers an array of public programs.
The Mary Tefft White “Talking in the Library” Series
In Fall 2004, Mary Tefft (Happy) White provided Roger Williams University with a generous gift to launch the annual program, Mary Tefft White Lecture Series. Since that time, the series, now known as Talking in the Library, hosts noted authors, scholars, and thinkers from our regional community and beyond.
2024-2025 Talking in the Library Lecture Series
The John Howard Birss, Jr. Memorial Program
Through the Professor John Howard Birss, Jr. Memorial Lecture and Professor John Howard Birss, Jr. Memorial Library Fund (established by University alumnus, Robert Blais '70), a significant or culturally impactful book is chosen annually to be honored. The program engages the campus and local community through discussions, celebrations, related collections, a library exhibit, and culminates with the annual Birss Lecture.
The Bermont Fellowship in Fiction and Nonfiction
Established with a generous gift from the Bermont family and in partnership with the Anthony Quinn Foundation, the Fellowship in Fiction and Nonfiction provides promising students with a unique and valuable experience in support of their own professional and artistic development as writers. Full-time undergraduate students (from any academic discipline or major) are selected annually through a blind submission process to attend an intensive, one-day master class with a distinguished visiting writer.