Local Bookshop Hosts Author Event to Benefit Literacy Council

The Fuzzy Needle welcomes New York author Laurie Gwen Shapiro for a reading, Q&A, and fundraiser.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:05pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a dimly lit bookshop interior, with soft, hazy pools of warm yellow and orange light, conveying the cozy, intimate atmosphere of a literary event.The Fuzzy Needle's upcoming author event will bring the community together around literature, music, and supporting local literacy efforts.Wilmington Today

The Fuzzy Needle, a local bookshop in Wilmington, North Carolina, is hosting an event this Thursday featuring New York City-based author Laurie Gwen Shapiro. The event will include a reading from Shapiro's latest book 'The Aviator and the Showman', a Q&A session, a live DJ set, and light refreshments. All proceeds from ticket sales will go to support the Cape Fear Literacy Council.

Why it matters

Events that bring the community together around literature, music, and charitable causes are at the heart of what The Fuzzy Needle aims to create. This event not only celebrates a new book but also supports the important work of the local literacy council, which helps improve reading and writing skills in the Wilmington area.

The details

The event at The Fuzzy Needle is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. In addition to the author reading and Q&A, the evening will feature a live DJ set and light refreshments. The bookshop is located at 716 S. 17th St in Wilmington.

  • The event is scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026.
  • Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

The players

The Fuzzy Needle

A local bookshop in Wilmington, North Carolina that hosts community events.

Laurie Gwen Shapiro

A New York City-based author whose latest book 'The Aviator and the Showman' is being celebrated at the event.

Cape Fear Literacy Council

A local non-profit organization that works to improve reading and writing skills in the Wilmington area, and will receive proceeds from the event ticket sales.

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What they’re saying

“Events like this are really at the heart of what we're trying to create at The Fuzzy Needle. We want the shop to be a place where stories, music, and people can come together in a way that feels real and shared.”

— Tim Jarman, Owner, The Fuzzy Needle

What’s next

Tickets for the event are available for purchase on The Fuzzy Needle's website, with all proceeds going to support the Cape Fear Literacy Council.

The takeaway

This event at The Fuzzy Needle exemplifies how local businesses can foster a sense of community by hosting engaging literary and cultural experiences that also give back to important non-profit organizations in their area.