Get to know Kelley Hunt, co-host of ‘After Hours’ library fundraiser

Each spring, the library opens its doors to the public for one special evening of celebration and generosity — the After Hours at the Library annual fundraiser, scheduled for Friday, March 7, from 7–9 PM. This year we are celebrating all things art in honor of our Summer Reading theme “Color Our World,” and all proceeds raised during the evening will go to Lawrence Public Library Friends & Foundation, which funds 100% of library programming.

The night of music, games, prizes, and food will be co-hosted by our very own Deja Brooks alongside Lawrence pianist, singer, and songwriter Kelley Hunt. We were lucky enough to get to talk to Kelley about co-hosting the event, her experience as an artist, and her relationship with the library.

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Hi, Kelley! Could you tell us about how you got started making music and what made you want to pursue it as a career?

I grew up hearing lots of music in my household — everything including jazz, blues, gospel, folk, R&B, rock & roll, and more. I started playing piano by ear at age 3 and never really “decided” to become a musician, I felt that I just was one. Playing the piano and writing my own songs began early on, and eventually I started singing.

What brought you to Lawrence, and what do you enjoy most about living here? 

I came to KU to study music, loved the town and the people, and stayed. I like the community that’s supportive of the arts and education, the diversity, civility, and the way that Lawrence has its own connected vibe.

Are there any projects you're working on right now you can tell us about? 

I’m currently working on my eighth album and planning the 20th annual Brave Voice Retreat & Workshops with former Kansas Poet Laureate and novelist Caryn Merriam Goldberg, including a retreat in May in the Flint Hills and one in Ireland next Fall.

What are you reading, listening to, or watching right now? Any stand-out recommendations? 

I recently read James by Percival Everett and loved the perspective of the character Jim from Huckleberry Finn. I highly recommend it. Anything by Julia Alvarez, especially In the Time of the Butterflies. So many great books to choose from, it’s hard to pick. 

Sara Smarsh is another favorite author (from Kansas). Some of the series my husband and I have just finished and loved are Somebody Somewhere, The Diplomat, and Shrinking.

Do you have any advice for upcoming artists and musicians?

Absolutely embrace and get really good at your art and at being yourself. Don’t try to emulate anyone else. Do the work. 

What will you be doing for the After Hours Fundraiser?

Co-hosting with the fabulous Deja Brooks, gathering ideas from patrons during the evening, and folding those into a new song performed by the end of the event.

Are there any library services you enjoy in particular?

I love the different signature events offered, being able to browse online (that wasn’t available when I was growing up!), and hands-on help. 

I was involved in a recording project for “Girls Rock” that used the SOUND+VISION Studio. It’s a great resource for the community and a great asset for aspiring musicians and songwriters.

It’s also fun to listen to music from all genres that have come from right here in Lawrence over the years on Kaw Valley Jukebox. So much diversity and talent.

One last question — Why do you choose to support the library?

Libraries have been an important part of my life and my family’s life. It’s a resource anyone, regardless of finances, can benefit from.

Both my parents were teachers at one time and encouraged all of their children to read from a very young age. One of my favorite memories is participating in the children’s summer reading program where I grew up in Emporia, getting my first library card, which fostered a sincere love of reading which continues to this day. When I moved to Lawrence, the library tradition continued with my own son and now continues with our granddaughter. 

I love how, over the years, our library has expanded, updated, and served generations of Lawrencians. It’s one of the true heartbeats of our community.

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Join Kelley, Deja, and our other generous community partners for a night of community and artistic expression all to support the library on Friday, March 7 from 7–9 PM. We hope to see you there!