Before public libraries, 35 local businessmen intent on self-improvement formed their own library in 1835—The Mercantile. Their goal: "democratizing knowledge." In the 190 years since, their speaker series has featured Herman Melville, Harriet Beecher Stowe, Margaret Atwood, Colson Whitehead, and others. The Lloyd Library and Museum, a world-renowned research library/cultural center was established in the 1870s by the Lloyd brothers, pharmacists and manufacturers of nature-based drugs. Still going strong, it houses more than 250,000 items including rare books dating back to the 1400s, botanical art, manuscripts, and artifacts.

Moderators: John Faherty, Executive Director of the Mercantile Library with its 10,000-year lease. Mercantile Library Book Advisor (her actual title) Hillary Copsey. Patricia Van Skaik, Executive Director of the Lloyd Library and Museum, is known for her fresh approaches and historical insights on timely topics through exhibitions, digital content, and programs covering topics ranging from cancer treatments to West End gardens.