Learn about the first woman ever to serve in a presidential cabinet

Frances Perkins was the first (and longest-serving) Secretary of Labor and key architect of the New Deal. Beyond her many accomplishments in the US, she helped save countless Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany. As Hitler rose to power, thousands of German-Jewish refugees and their loved ones reached out to the INS—then part of the Labor Department—applying for immigration to the United States, writing letters that began “Dear Miss Perkins…” 

Join Encore Learning and author Dr. Rebecca Brenner Graham, postdoctoral research associate at Brown University, to hear about the story and heroic actions of this remarkable woman who saved countless lives through creativity, determination and fast action.    

The author's presentation will be followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. 

Copies of the book will be available for sale (or advance sale to be picked up at event) courtesy of One More Page Books

REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED. Join in person or online. First-come, first-served seating for the in-person event. By registering, you will receive event updates. 

To attend online:

For more information, contact LibraryPrograms@arlingtonva.us

This program is presented in partnership with Encore Learning. Encore Learning is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2002. They offer a wide variety of college-level noncredit courses, clubs, special events and activities to help meet the continuing educational and social interests of anyone over age 50, regardless of residence location.

 

Date:
Monday, March 3, 2025
Time:
3:00pm - 4:30pm
Location:
Barbara M. Donnellan Auditorium
Library:
Central Library
Audience:
Events for Adults Good for Adults Age 55+
Categories:
Author Talk Civics & Government History
Calendar:
Arlington Public Library

Registration is required. There are 85 in-person seats available. There are 96 online seats available.

The Central Library parking garage is closed for structural repairs. Surface parking lots are available, but parking will be a challenge. If you must drive, consider arranging a carpool or rideshare. Please see below for other transportation options: 

Free parking, without parking meters, within a short walk may also be available at:

Nearby paid parking options include:

Public Transportation Options:

  • The closest Metro stations to Central Library are Ballston and Virginia Square on the Orange and Silver Lines.
  • The ART Bus (42, 52, 56, 75) stops near Central Library.
  • Metrobus (38B, 10B, 22A) stops near Central Library.

Bike options:

  • Nearby Capital Bikeshare stations are:
    • Central Library/ Quincy St & 10th St N
    • Fairfax Dr & Randolph St
    • Ballston Metro
    • Virginia Square Metro
    • Bike/scooter racks are available at both main entrances of Central Library.

You can find bus, bike and walking routes on your favorite navigation app.

 

About Our Events

Accommodations in the Library

Arlington County provides accommodations to individuals with disabilities upon request. Please contact ​us at least five (5) business days in advance.

  • Phone: 703-228-5993
  • Email: Jberg@arlingtonva.us