Hillman Library will celebrate the opening of the Sharon G. Flake Papers at the University of Pittsburgh Library System on March 31.

Flake, a renowned author whose writing focuses on Black life and experience, will be joined by curator Clare Withers, children’s literature scholars, educators, and researchers. A panel will explore the significance and authenticity of Flake’s writing as well as the cultural impact of her work across time and the value of the archives to researchers.

An undergraduate will share her recent use of the materials, followed by remarks from Flake and a brief Q&A. Capping off the event is an opportunity to view materials.

Hailing from North Philadelphia, Flake is a Pitt alum (English, 1978) and long-time Pittsburgher. She has gained international acclaim for her books. Her 1998 debut, “The Skin I’m In,” explores colorism and self-worth, issues that continue to resonate with contemporary audiences. More than two decades later, Flake augmented that first book, expanding to a trilogy with the powerful “The Life I’m In” (2021) and “The Family I’m In” (2025).

Flake has published poetry, short stories and picture books, as well as novel length fiction. Other popular titles include “Money Hungry” (2001), “Begging for Change” (2003), “Bang!” (2005), and “Once in a Blue Moon” (2024).

She was the winner of the 1992 August Wilson Short Story Contest. She has gone on to receive numerous awards, including a Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe Award and two Coretta Scott King Author honors

Donated in 2024, materials in the collection document the literary career and professional activities of Flake. Included are published works, early and unpublished manuscripts, promotion and publicity materials, personal papers, correspondence, records of speaking engagements, realia, and audio-visual materials.

“The Archive I’m In: Celebrating Award-Winning Author Sharon G. Flake” will be from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Hillman Library, 340 Archives & Special Collections Instruction Room. Register here.