Tuesday, March 31
4 - 5:30 pm
Archives & Special Collections Instruction Room, 340 Hillman Library

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Celebrate with us as we mark the opening of the Sharon G. Flake Papers at the University of Pittsburgh Library System. Flake, a renowned author whose writing focuses on Black life and experience, will be joined by Curator Clare Withers, children's literature scholars, educators, and researchers. A panel will explore the significance and authenticity of Flake's writing as well as the cultural impact of her work across time and the value of the archives to researchers. An undergraduate will share her recent use of the materials, followed by remarks from Flake and a brief Q&A. Capping off the event is an opportunity to view materials.

Hailing from North Philadelphia, Flake is a Pitt alum (English, 1978) and long-time Pittsburgher whose writing largely centers on the Black experience. She has gained international acclaim for her books, engaging readers with her unique narrative style and dynamic characters. Her 1998 debut, The Skin I'm In, explores colorism and self-worth, issues that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. More than two decades later, Flake augmented that first book, expanding to a trilogy with the powerful The Life I'm In (2021) and The Family I'm In (2025).

A prolific writer, Flake has published poetry, short stories, and picture books as well as novel length fiction. Other popular titles include Money Hungry (2001), Begging for Change (2003), Bang! (2005), and Once in a Blue Moon (2024).

Flake was the winner of the 1992 August Wilson Short Story Contest. She went on to receive numerous awards, including a Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award and two Coretta Scott King Author honors. She continues to write and inspire, expanding the reach of her works through community outreach, lectures, and school visits.

Donated in 2024, materials in the collection document the literary career and professional activities of Flake.  Included are published works, early and unpublished manuscripts, promotion and publicity materials, personal papers, correspondence, records of speaking engagements, realia, and audio-visual materials.

Hillman Library is located at 3960 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15260. Metered on-street parking is available on various streets surrounding the library. Paid parking is also available at Soldiers & Sailors Parking Garage (.2 miles from the library). Hillman is also accessible by public transportation. See the Pittsburgh Regional Transit website for planning your trip. 

Please email uls-events@pitt.edu with any questions or accessibility accommodation requests.

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