Sharon Hill Public Library provides the community with several different programs that aim to not only show how talented all the members are, but also give them the opportunity to learn new skills that they wish to learn for themselves. Our programs also help the members of the community come together through the activities that they can participate in.
If you wish to learn more, please don’t hesitate to give us a call at 610-586-3993. We are excited to get to know you better.
María del Pilar Rodríguez is a writer, poet, and professional dedicated to financial education and the well-being of immigrant communities. With a background in theater studies at the Community College, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, she has used her artistic and communication talents in initiatives that aim to educate and empower others.
This year, María self-published her first book, a work that combines her passion for financial education and writing, with the goal of making a fun and impactful difference in the lives of future generations: our children. Throughout her career, she has worked on projects ranging from financial consulting to organizing educational workshops, providing practical tools to help people make informed decisions about their future.
In addition to her work in financial education, María has participated in theatrical productions. She was involved in the play Medea, written by James Ijames and directed by Raelle Myrick-Hodges, as part of a collaborative effort that allowed her to explore her artistic side.
In her latest book, From Stories to Savings, María presents an educational work aimed at families, with the goal of teaching children about personal finance in an interactive way. Through accessible stories and practical activities, her book encourages learning about key concepts such as saving, using credit, and making responsible financial decisions.
María del Pilar Rodríguez participated in the 6th Annual Latin American Book Fair, where she successfully hosted a dramatic reading of her book *From Stories to Savings*. The community enthusiastically received free copies of the book, along with saving jars to encourage children to visualize and save for their dreams. In addition to her literary work, María serves on the boards of three organizations: Acción Colombia, the Norristown Chamber of Commerce, and the Latin American Book Fair.
Alvin Christie, originally born in Brooklyn, NY, is an Ordained Minister of the gospel of Christ, a Medical Laboratory Tech, and a father of two children, six grands, and one great-grand. Alvin was raised by two loving southern parents of four children from Augusta, Georgia. His mother, Frances, was a seamstress, and his father, Joseph, was a steelworker. God’s love was sown together by fabric and reinforced by steel. These two strands kept love “real” in me. Alvin enjoys ministering to God’s people and pouring out his life and heart onto the pages of his poetry. He realized writing was a segue to release phases of his life’s journey locked away in the chambers of his heart, now allowing others to have a peek into that which was silent for so long.
Lillian Edmondson was born and raised in the Cobbs Creek section of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She was the youngest of five children, who learned a lot about life inadvertently through witnessing the lives of her parents and siblings. Her father served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, and her mother served in the U.S. Air Force, which led to a structured but lively childhood. Her upbringing impacted the way she viewed life and subsequently piqued her interest in human behavior. Lillian developed a love for the creative arts from her father, an artist and self-taught musician. Lillian is a mother of two children, who carries a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, BFA, as well as a master’s degree in social work, MSW. Lillian is also a Licensed Social Worker, LSW in the State of Pennsylvania and has been servicing families with the City of Philadelphia’s Department of Human Services for almost 30 years.
Long before the term, “Black Girl Magic”, came into being, Racine Smith Williams was the first Black gymnast to win the Maryland State All Around title in 1982. Racine grew up in Lanham, MD. and trained at Royal T’s Gymnastics Team in Crofton, MD. In 1984, Racine was the first Black female gymnast at the University of Nebraska. She received a full athletic scholarship and competed all four years. Racine was an Academic All-Big Eight and earned two Big Eight Conference team championships on her resume along with finishing twice as a top ten team at the Division 1 NCAA National Championships. Racine received her Bachelor of Science in Human Development from the University of Nebraska in 1989 and earned her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Bowie State University in 1992. Currently as a healthcare professional and professional organizer, Racine enjoys helping others live their best life. She enjoys traveling, supporting the gymnastics community, crocheting, and serving the community.
PJ is an energetic, creative, and caring 9-year-old girl whose passion for gymnastics lands her in an entirely different world. While the children all share an interest in learning gymnastics, for some, there are also key lessons learned. What unfolds is a love for gymnastics, new friendships, and a deeper respect for differences.
William David Henderson has had a lifelong passion for poetry and storytelling. AN avid fan of the classics such as Shakespeare and Tolkien, his sensibilities have also been informed by the genre fiction of his childhood: J.K Rowling, Rick Riordan, R.L. Stine, and Stephen King. William graduated with an International Baccalaureate diploma in 2022. He spends his time writing, creating music, practicing mixed martial arts, and playing soccer.
Anushka and Arushi are Award Winning child authors. Anushka published her first book at the age of 8 and Arushi at 6. Over the past 4 years, they have published 16 books which comprises of Picture books, Educational, Early reader, Chapter books, Fantasy and Activity books!
Alexus C. Smith is a writer, speaker, and advocate who has made it her life’s mission to inspire children to embrace their self-worth and know they are deeply loved, seen, and heard. Growing up, Alexus often felt invisible, struggling with depression that went unnoticed. These silent battles became the foundation of her passion for helping children understand their value and recognize that their voices matter. From a young age, Alexus turned to writing as an outlet, completing her first book at just 16 years old, though it wouldn’t be published until 2021. Driven by a heartfelt belief that it’s far better to nurture strong, confident children than to try to repair broken adults, Alexus uses her books, school visits, and curriculum to teach children the power of self-love, empathy, and kindness. She is determined to create a world where every child feels empowered to stand up against bullying, celebrate their differences, and believe in their limitless potential.
Lewis, Y. K is a children's book author and poet dedicated to bringing restoration through literature with her unique approach to life's lessons. Her children's books offer an insider look at the fantastic world from a child's unique point of view. At the same time, her poetry books were written for women who lost their identity due to various forms of trauma. After suffering an injury, she had the opportunity to pursue her love of writing and launched Lewis, Y.K Enterprises, to publish her books.
Lewis's everyday life experiences are her blueprint for creating beautifully crafted stories that show healthy family relationships. While her poetry book focuses on women's issues, such as early on-set abuse. Lewis, Y. K writes to help women and children discover healthy relationships through self-discovery, creativity, and self-exploration to manifest their purpose and self-worth. Lewis, Y. K currently resides in Arlington, Tx, with her beautiful family.
Synopsis Children's Book Series: All These Hands | A Day in the Life of Eryn Lee
All These Hands is a beautifully illustrated children's book that follows a day in the life of Eryn Lee, highlighting her experiences from morning to night. Eryn learns important bathroom etiquette through her Pottytime song. The book emphasizes how babies, with their limited eyesight, begin to recognize their family members through the familiar sounds of their voices and the comforting touch of their hands. It captures the special connections that develop in those early moments of life.
Synopsis Poetry Book Series: Some Lessons of Life Through Poetry, Spring Poems and Narrative Writings, Volume 1
In "Some Lessons of Life Through Poetry," the author reflects on a painful reality that presents a choice between life and death. Amid deep despair, a conscious decision to embrace life leads to true happiness. Through poetic exploration, the work addresses themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of choice. The poems confront the complexities of abuse, the struggle for visibility, and the journey toward healing and self-worth. This collection offers an intimate and empowering insight into the author's experiences, encouraging readers to find strength, hope, and wisdom while navigating their own challenges. It serves as a source of inspiration, inviting reflection and the courage to embrace life's trials.
