Plunky & Oneness is an enduring and versatile funk, jazz, Afro-fusion group led by saxophonist J. Plunky Branch. This group is a unique combination of exotic soulful grooves, sax, vocals, African percussion, and electronics. They will be performing a selection of original compositions as part of the library’s Soothin’ Summer Sounds “We Are America” concert series. Free and open to the public | Sponsored by the Friends of the Mathews Memorial Library

Dubbed “the Queen of Virginia Gospel Music”, singer and pianist Cora Armstrong has been delighting audiences for over 40 years. Cora began taking piano lessons at the age of five, and performed gospel music with her sisters and mother as The Harvey Family. Since then, she has toured Europe and Japan, directed the VSU Gospel Chorale, and become an ordained minister. A perennial favorite at the Richmond Folk Festival, she will be performing a selection of traditional gospel as part…

Deck the Halls Tree Trimming Party Sun., Dec. 4, 1-3 pm Mathews Memorial Library Celebrate the season in a Christmas card setting come to life at our annual Deck the Hall tree trimming party. Join Friends & family to enjoy holiday music, seasonal refreshments, and a special visit from Santa.

Once Upon A Christmas A PJ Story Time Tues., Dec. 13, 6-7 pm Mathews Memorial Library Tonight belongs to the children! Santa has promised to pay a visit to this very special storytime event, all children up to age 6 are invited to pull on their PJs, grab their blanket and favorite teddy bear and come to the library to share in the magic of Christmas stories. Cookies and hot chocolate will be served.

A Gift for Santa Cookie Exchange Thurs., Dec. 15, 11 am-12 pm Mathews Memorial Library The taste of freshly baked cookies is one of the joys of Christmas, sharing this treat is part of the magic of the season. Bakers are invited to create their favorite cookie and share them with friends at the library’s Holiday Cookie Exchange. Each recipe will appear in the library’s annual cookie book. An extra bonus – a prize will be given for the best holiday…

Do You Hear What I Hear? Ambrosia Quartet Wed., Dec. 21, 4-5 pm Mathews Memorial Library The magic of the season will be found in the enchanted sounds of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Ambrosia Quartet. An afternoon of light classics and holiday music ringing through the library will put attendees in the proper state of mind for celebrating. Those who attend will also enjoy traditional Christmas pudding and Wassail.

Every Saturday 10:00-2:00, Orrell Building Book Store behind the Visitor's Center. Thousands of books — most are only $1 Learn more about the Friends of the Mathews Memorial Library: www.friendsofmathewslibrary.org Book Store: 725-0808