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LEHIGH VALLEY WEATHER

A conversation with trailblazing Journalist Melba Tolliver at Parkland Community Library

On June 26, the Rebel Girls Club at Parkland Community Library welcomed pioneering journalist Melba Tolliver for an inspiring author talk and book signing of “Accidental Anchorwoman: A memoir of chance, choice, change and connection.”

Tolliver, known as the first African American woman to anchor the news in New York, shared her journey from nursing to journalism with an audience of young readers and their families.

The event, part of the club’s mission to empower girls through stories of remarkable women, was both educational and heartfelt.

The club takes its name from the popular “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” book series.

During the event, club member, Anna Rodriquez read aloud Tolliver’s story from the series, spotlighting her courage and resilience – particularly when she was told not to appear on air with her natural afro hairstyle.

Tolliver emphasized the value of curiosity, writing and being attuned to life’s synchronicities.

A quote from the author – “All that’s asked of us is that we stay awake and aware of the constant interplay of chance, choice, change and connection” – was featured on a poster with an illustration created by club member Suba Ahmed and prominently displayed during the talk.

The meeting concluded with gifts exchanged and a discussion on the impact of books and storytelling.

Thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Educational Improvement Tax Credit Program, the club has plans for future activities, including meeting real-life rebels and learning new skills.

PRESS PHOTOS BY MICHAEL HIRSCHMelba Tolliver and Suzanne Lee, library assistant, Parkland Community Library, view the video of Tolliver anchoring an Eyewitness News broadcast on Channel 7 in New York City.
Daysia Carter, Anna Rodriguez, Sofia Marin, Anaaya Singla, Myra Singla, Melba Tolliver, Emma Hirth and back row Suha Ahmed gather for a photo.
Melba Tolliver signs a book for Emma Hirst at the Parkland Community Library June 26.
Rebel Girls Club members Anna Rodriguez and Suba Ahmed give a presentation of their gifts for author Melba Tolliver at the meeting.