Bars and Books with Maiya The Don

Books and Bars meets Brooklyn Public Library!

On Saturday, August 29,2026, I attended an Event called Bars and Books at the Central Library at Grand Army Plaza in Brooklyn,NY. The event was located in the Dweck Auditorium of the library. 

The special guest was the Brooklyn Rapper, Maiya The Don. Guests were in for a treat as they received a lyric booklet featuring songs from her new album, Precious Cargo. Many loyal fans were in attendance, singing along to the music. Maiya The Don also shared the inspiration behind several of the songs. The audience got to  hear her thought process when she comes up with new  material for her raps. Maiya expressed whenever creativity strikes, she has to write it down or record it on her phone. A lot of the time, those ideas make it into her music.

The Rapstress told us about some of the books she is currently reading and loving. She had lots of fun on stage giggling, kiki-ing, dancing, and being her genuine self. The crowd of book and music lovers appreciated her cadence and good vibe energy . She had giveaways of different keychains, pins, and Poppies by Outta Print to place on your kindle.

Some guests came as far as Connecticut, and New Jersey to the Books and Bars event to see Maiya. 

 Complimentary Beer and wine was served for the guests. It felt like we were a part of a listening party for her album Precious Cargo.  Maiya The Don explained the inspiration behind some of her songs, and challenges with some of her tracks. She talked about her all time favorite songs on the album. She also rapped some songs, and the crowd joined in with enthusiasm.

Grand Army Plaza Central Library is important to the Brooklyn community in many ways. It’s  the 6th largest library in the United States. There are different sections of the library to help the community  including a youth wing, business and career center for patrons.. Many different exhibits are in the library including the former  Jay Z exhibit . Currently, while walking through the library you may see the Soca King Machel Montana exhibition.The Brooklyn Public Library is such an incredible place for literary and cultural events. It preserves the heart  and culture of the Brooklyn community, and showcases talented people. Summer festivals outside are part of  the Brooklyn central library experience.

Be sure to follow both @Bklynlibrary  and  @Maiyathedonn on instagram.