Join Martha and Jason Brady for more philosophical talk featuring excerpts from Stephen Batchelor's *Buddha, Socrates and Us*. Come for a lively discussion.

Mother Tongue: a Weekend of Women’s Voices brings together outstanding women poets, writers, authors, and readers from our community for a weekend of literary enjoyment and appreciation. As we kick off Women's History Month this March, Lily Books & Cafe and the Cumberland Chapter of the Maryland Writers' Association are partnering to offer an exciting program of lit-focused events highlighting and celebrating women’s voices. Featured events include a women's poetry reading and open mic night at Loft 129, followed by a panel of local author readings and discussion, a luncheon and book signings, and ending the day with a hands-on writing workshop, all at Lily Books & Cafe. Mother Tongue is free to attend and open to all genders. We hope you will join us in celebration, community, and creativity. <h2 class="text-2xl font-bold text-gray-800 font-serif mt-6 mb-2">Friday, March 6 — Women's Poetry Night & Open Mic @ Loft 129</h2> Join us for the opening event on Friday March 6th for a Women's Poetry Night & Open Mic at Loft 129 in downtown Cumberland. Local literary ladies will take to the stage and read from their work, followed by an open mic session open to all genders, backgrounds, experiences, and genres. <br /> Doors open at 7:30 PM. Readings start at 8 PM. Cash bar will be open and additional refreshments are available for purchase downstairs at Lily Books & Cafe. This event is free and open to all. Come to read. Come to listen. Leave inspired! <h2 class="text-2xl font-bold text-gray-800 font-serif mt-6 mb-2">Saturday, March 7 — Women Author Reading & Discussion</h2> In celebration of Women's History Month, Lily Books & Cafe and the Maryland Writers' Association will bring together local women authors to read from their published works for a morning of coffee and conversation. Authors will share work that navigates diverse personal and collective experiences, as well as writing genres. Lily Books will open at 10 AM for morning refreshments and readings begin at 10:30 at the Roundtable downstairs. Stick around for an author Q&A and discussion. Books by selected authors will be available for purchase and signing during the lunch hour. <h2 class="text-2xl font-bold text-gray-800 font-serif mt-6 mb-2">Saturday, March 7 — Women's Writing Workshop</h2> Interested in writing but don't know where to start? Feeling uninspired and in need of a creative boost? Join us for an engaging and interactive writing workshop hosted by Ellen Coffey, Doris Brady, and Heather M from the Maryland Writers' Association. Through guided exercises, reflective prompts, and discussion, you'll learn how to transform raw ideas into original language and leave the session feeling free to write. In addition, we may learn a little literary women's trivia along the way. The workshop starts at 1:30 PM meeting at the Lily Books Roundtable downstairs. Writers and the writing curious of all skill levels are welcome. <br /> This event is free and open to all genders. Space is limited and RSVP is encouraged. Be sure not to miss this unique and inspiring event! <br /> To RSVP, email us at <a href="mailto:lilybooksandcafe@gmail.com" class="text-primary hover:text-accent transition-colors duration-300">lilybooksandcafe@gmail.com</a>.

MEMOIRS MATTER: First Steps in Writing Your Memoir Join author and retired educational technology professor Peggy Roblyer, whose memoir, *Strong Glass*, is forthcoming in 2026—for an essential session on crafting a memoir. Peggy will cover key steps, including: <br /> **Memoir vs. Autobiography:** Understanding the critical difference in scope and structure. **Exploring Sub-Genres:** Practical examples to help you find your unique style. **The Publishing Decision:** Crucial factors to consider when deciding whether and how to publish your personal story. <br /> Also Peggy will be reading a story from *Strong Glass* called "Bread of Life," which is about a pivotal period in her Dad's life as he leaves his family home in Cresaptown and "rides the rails" through the Depression-era South in search of work.

Join us at the bookstore from 2 pm–5 pm with Amy Miller from Finnegan Knits. She will host and lead her popular Chunky Blanket event. She brings all the materials you need to create a lap blanket that is a perfect gift for a friend or for yourself. Cost of event is $50 and includes a complimentary beverage.

**Sacred Text Study Group:** Join a group of folks interested in the wisdom of sacred texts from world religions. 4:30–6:30 pm at the Roundtable. <br /> Followed by a night of vocal music from FSU's University Chamber Singers at Loft 129.

Come for story time at 11:30 am and hear local author and artist Penny Knobel-Besa read about the Tooth Fairy. Stay for her book signing from 12–2 pm of her new book on the Tooth Fairy.

Hear it is! Heated Rivalry Roundtable sponsored by the Romance Roundtable group. Come find out why this is a national sensation.

Join local artist Casey Beal, owner of Samaran Selkie, for a fun and creative evening designing your very own wearable masterpiece! Follow a guided demonstration OR create your own! <br /> Bring glasses if you need them for reading, pendants are small! <br /> **What's included:** - One handmade clay pendant (variety of shapes and background colors to choose from!) - Brushes and painting supplies will be provided - Your choice of braided cord or necklace chain - Keychains are also available! <br /> After the workshop, your pendant will be sealed with a protective varnish and will be ready for pickup the following week. <br /> Come get creative, relax, and design a beautiful custom necklace that's all your own! <br /> Reserve your spot today in person at Lily Books & Cafe!

Local author and internationally-acclaimed historian Russell Shorto. Watch for RSVP and more information, but save the date as we continue showcasing Cumberland's authors and beyond.