Ready to unleash your inner show girl? Join us for Taylor Swift Trivia!

Bring your swifties and see who leaves with the bragging rights!

Join us to jump back into the Maasverse for a night of trivia completely based on the 2nd book of the ACOTAR series.

Join us October 11th at 5:30 pm for a spooky evening as Jessica O' Brien reads from her novel Miss Ray. With eerie nostalgia and razor-sharp humor, Jessica crafts horror that wounds, unsettles, and refuses to let go.

Back by popular demand! Come and join us as we bedazzle our books! Bring a book or purchase one here at The Black Rose

Tickets can be purchased ahead or before the event starts.

Join us for an unforgettable night of live music with Dogs on Skis, a beloved local Iowa band known for their high-energy performances and crowd-pleasing covers. Whether you're here to sing along, sip something boozy, or just soak in the vibes, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening at the bookstore.
Come early, stay late—good tunes and great company await.

From 7-9PM on each of these nights!

October 10th

December 5th

December 27th

Come Check out a duo like no other!

The Mullins Brothers will be bringing their versions of your favorite hits to the stage at The Black Rose! When Stu and Sam Mullins formed The Mullins Brothers duo in 2012, it was guided by one principle: play songs they love and that enthusiasm will be contagious. The results are an eclectic set covering four decades of the best of pop-rock: everything from classic songs by The Beatles, Carole King and Steely Dan to modern masterpieces by Wilco, Ben Folds and Fiona Apple.

Come Cozy up, sip, and enjoy all the vibes!

Sunday, October 5th from 2-4PM

Friday, October 24th from 7-9PM

Saturday, November 1st from 7-9PM

Sunday, December 21st from 2-4PM

Join us Friday, October 18th at 5:30 PM for a chilling evening with Iowa City author Tatiana Schlote as she reads from her haunting new novel, The Mean Ones. Dive into the eerie atmosphere with a live reading, audience Q&A, and a chance to purchase both The Mean Ones and her debut novel, Such Lovely Skin.

We'll be serving up a bloody signature cocktail to celebrate spooky season in style. Come for the thrills, stay for the chills.👻🍸

Have a book you've read and don't mind swaping for another? The join us for our first book swap!

Bring a book and leave with a book - or bring multiple and leave with just as many.

Join us for an inspiring evening with Iowa indie author Rhonda Mumby as she shares from her debut novel, A Journey to My Life. This heartfelt story explores love, resilience, and finding your true path when life takes unexpected turns. Enjoy an intimate reading, Q&A with the author, and the chance to grab a signed copy!

🍸 Signature themed cocktail available at the bar!

📚 Support local – discover your next favorite read!

Join us for two cozy nights of music with Heartfelt Trucking, a small but mighty duo from Iowa bringing their warm, down-to-earth sound to our stage. Catch them on Friday, November 21st and again on Friday, December 19th from 7–9 PM. Grab a drink, settle in, and let the music roll through.