Beyond Words 2026

Thursday, November 5, 2026

6 - 8 P.M.

Hartford Marriott Downtown

Beyond Words is HPL's signature annual fundraising event, celebrating the transformative power of libraries.

This special evening highlights the Library’s commitment to literacy, community, and connection. Beyond Words showcases the power of impact—how your support helps us change lives, expand opportunities, and build a stronger Hartford.

Featured Author: Norah O'Donnell

Norah O'Donnell is a multiple Emmy Award-winning journalist with nearly three decades of experience covering the biggest stories in the world and conducting impactful, news-making interviews. She is CBS News’ Senior Correspondent, focused on big interviews and projects for the network, and spent five years as the anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News the oldest and most revered evening news broadcast in America. O’Donnell anchors CBS News Election Specials and is a 60 Minutes contributing correspondent. She is married to the bacon-loving Geoff Tracy, otherwise known as Chef Geoff, and is the mother of three children. 

Her new book, We the Women: The Hidden Heroes Who Shaped America, is a vivid portrait of the unsung American women from 1776 to today who changed the course of history in their fight for freedom and helped shape a more perfect union.

In conversation with Duby McDowell, HPL Ambassador and noted broadcast media and marketing professional.

Celebrating The Hartford History Center & America 250: Before independence was declared, Hartford was a place where information was shared, debates unfolded, and civic responsibility took root. Today, the Library carries that legacy forward by preserving history and ensuring that access to knowledge remains the foundation of a vibrant democracy.

Evening Schedule

• Reception, Cocktails and Dinner, 6 pm - 7 pm

• Remarks, Author Conversation and Honors, 7 pm - 8 pm

Self Parking is included in your ticket.