Storyteller Liz Z. Pardue to Appear at Rowan Public Library
Rowan Public Library will feature North Carolina storyteller Liz Z. Pardue on October 13, 2026. Pardue is well-known throughout the state for her engaging storytelling performances and her presence on social media, where she shares tales of folklore, legends, and intriguing stories from North Carolina.
Pardue, who has gained the nickname “Cackalacky Elvira,” specializes in “spookery” and presents a variety of storytelling styles. She describes her shows, “Tarheel Terrors” and “Keep NC Weird,” as lively compilations of beloved North Carolina folklore that evolve as she uncovers more stories. “Whether you’re a native North Carolinian or a newcomer to the Old North State, you’ll laugh and learn something new,” she said.
Event Details and Reception
The event is free and aimed at individuals aged 14 and older, with no prior registration needed; seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. The library is situated at 201 West Fisher Street in Salisbury, North Carolina. Following her presentation, attendees will have the chance to meet Pardue during a reception where she will be selling copies of her co-authored book, “Fuquay-Varina Ghosts, Legends & Lore,” written with Kelly Prestipino.
Pardue has a deep-rooted passion for storytelling, having grown up immersed in North Carolina’s ghost stories and folklore. She attributes her fascination with tales of the eerie and unusual to her family’s long-standing presence in the state. “Stories were as much a part of our shared language as many others in the South,” she noted.
Connection Through Storytelling
In addition to live performances, Pardue has embraced digital platforms to reach a wider audience, emphasizing the importance of grounding her stories in thorough research and regional history. She distinguishes her approach from that of typical social media influencers, stating, “I see I’m reaching folks of all walks of life with information and stories, and I’ve learned that there’s a power in that.”
Her work is informed by interactions on social media, which she views as an extension of her everyday life. “What’s cool about social media is that it broadens the conversations,” she explained. Pardue has particularly focused on folklore connected to Rowan County and Salisbury, noting the area’s rich history and cultural narratives.
Inspirations and Future Projects
Pardue’s passion for storytelling is complemented by her travels, where she often gathers folklore from different regions. During a recent visit to Iceland, she collected several books on the local mythology, including sagas and ghost stories. She sees books as meaningful souvenirs that deepen her understanding of the places she visits.
As a proponent of libraries, Pardue believes they play a vital role in fostering community connections. She remarked on the wealth of resources and programs available for free at public libraries, which facilitate access to information and educational opportunities.
Her storytelling endeavors continue to evolve, with plans for new shows, a podcast launch, and multiple book projects in progress, including a photo travelogue and an anthology of local ghost stories. “You know, just something to keep me occupied,” she said, reflecting her dynamic approach to storytelling.
For more information on Pardue and her work, visit her website at www.lizzpardue.com. Additional details about Rowan Public Library and its offerings can be found at www.rowanpubliclibrary.org.
Source: Rowan County Government. Photo: Rowan County Government.
