a side profile of books

Women Literacy Readers of Southeast Raleigh

John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center

Calling all women who love books! This program offers an inspiring and thought-provoking gathering where readers can dive deeply into monthly selections and explore the meaning behind the stories. 

Whether participants enjoy fiction, memoirs, poetry, or nonfiction, this welcoming space encourages open dialogue, diverse perspectives, and meaningful connections. Together, we aim to build a community of women who read, reflect, and rise through literature.

We are proud to highlight Patricia Nwosu, a respected academic and community leader who served as the Interim Chair of the Department of Humanities at Saint Augustine’s University in Raleigh, North Carolina. In her role, she helped shape the academic direction of the humanities department, supported faculty, and mentored students. Patricia Nwosu was also a featured participant in an initiative that brought together alumni, educators, and community members to preserve and celebrate the legacy of Saint Augustine’s University and its contributions to civil rights history. In addition to her academic leadership, Patricia W. Nwosu serves as a journalist for The National Association of University Women and is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority and the JW Ligon Alumni Association. Her commitment to education, storytelling, and community empowerment aligns deeply with the mission of this literary program.

Grounded in the belief that books are gateways to empathy, imagination, and lifelong learning, the program encourages thoughtful discussion, promotes literacy and critical thinking, and supports cultural awareness. Activities include monthly group discussions, themed reading challenges, author spotlights, guest speakers, book swaps, and community-based outreach. Optional creative writing sessions and literary outings further enrich the experience and nurture participants’ personal and intellectual growth.

Expected Outcomes
  • Increased engagement with literature: Participants will broaden their reading habits and explore new genres, authors, and ideas.
  • Enhanced critical thinking and communication skills: Regular discussions will help readers articulate insights, ask meaningful questions, and listen respectfully to differing viewpoints.
  • Strengthened sense of community: Members will form supportive connections with women of varied experiences and backgrounds.
  • Greater cultural awareness: Exposure to diverse voices and stories will deepen participants’ understanding of different cultures, identities, and life experiences.
  • Support for the local literary ecosystem: Engagement with local authors, independent bookstores, and literary events will strengthen community ties.
  • Evaluation of Success
Success will be evaluated through:
  • Participant feedback surveys to assess satisfaction, sense of belonging, and perceived personal growth.
  • Attendance and participation tracking to understand engagement across activities.
  • Discussion reflections to gauge critical thinking, cultural insight, and depth of conversation.
  • Community partnership involvement, such as collaborations with local authors or bookstores.
  • Reading challenge and activity completion rates as indicators of sustained participation.

Location: John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center
Date: Second Saturday of each month starting Jan. 10
Time: 2 - 4 p.m.
Ages: All
Cost: Free
Register on RecLink beginning Dec. 2

Contact

 
John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center
401 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Raleigh, NC 27601

919-996-6580

John P. "Top" Greene African American Cultural Center

Lead Department:
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources

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