National Library Week – Storyteller Bil Lepp

The Transylvania County Library will welcome nationally acclaimed storyteller Bil Lepp on Tuesday, April 21 at noon in the Library’s Rogow Room for a live performance of his signature Appalachian tall tales. The program is free and open to the public.

With roots in the rich storytelling traditions of Appalachia, Lepp is a five-time champion of the West Virginia Liars’ Contest and a nationally recognized performer known for his quick wit and engaging stage presence. A longtime favorite at storytelling festivals nationwide and a regular headliner at the National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN, he blends humor, exaggeration and a surprising thread of truth, transforming everyday moments into tales that resonate with audiences of all ages. Lepp hosted the History Channel series “Man vs. History”, has served as an occasional host of NPR’s internationally syndicated “Mountain Stage”, and is a contributing columnist for the “West Virginia Gazette-Mail”. His work as an author and recording artist has earned numerous honors, including the PEN Steven Kroll Award for Children’s Book Writing and the Vandalia Award, West Virginia’s highest folk honor.

The event will begin with a brief Friends of the Library Annual Meeting to share updates, recognize volunteers and elect officers. All are welcome — membership is not required. The Friends Board will present the following slate of officers for election to the 2026–2028 Board: President Khaled Khiyar; President-Elect Carol Moore; Secretary Jeni Brandon; and Treasurer Dave Watts.