Book worms: If you’re looking for reading recommendations, this event was made for you. Step into a world of new stories and inspiring author conversations at the 25th Library of Congress National Book Festival on Saturday, September 6 in the nation’s capital.
Free and open to the public, this literary extravaganza will feature panel sessions and meet-and-greet opportunities with more than 90 bestselling authors, novelists, poets, children’s writers, and illustrators.
“Since its creation 25 years ago, the Library of Congress National Book Festival has brought thousands of attendees together to celebrate reading and literacy,” says Jarrod MacNeil, Signature Programs Office Director at The Library of Congress. “Through book talks, panel discussions, book signings, and other engaging activities, the National Book Festival has positioned itself as the most prominent literary event in the nation.”
With doors opening at 8:30 a.m., you’ll have a full day to explore all the festival has to offer from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Programs and sessions will reveal the power of storytelling through the eyes of distinguished and diverse authors.
“We strived for a comprehensive lineup of writers at this year’s National Book Festival. There’s nonfiction that addresses real-world issues Americans are thinking about, fiction that sweeps readers away from those very issues, and children’s and young adult writers who introduce young readers to fictional universes that foster their imaginations,” says Clay Smith, Literary Director at The Library of Congress.
National Book Festival Author Lineup
The author lineup features Geena Davis, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Ron Chernow, R.L. Stine, Justice Amy Coney Barrett, and many more. From imaginative fiction and poetry to compelling nonfiction and biographies, there are genres for everyone to learn and enjoy.
Expect a variety of family-friendly activities, workshops, and interactive programs for all ages. These include storytelling at the Story District, hands-on learning at the Workshop Space, and discovering innovative work at the nation’s Library.
Participants can also visit the Roadmap to Reading area to peruse books from all 50 states, along with the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Marianas.
For virtual viewing, a livestream of the Main Stage events can be found on the festival’s website. Videos of all programs will be available online and on the Library’s YouTube channel shortly after the festival concludes.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center: 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW, Washington, DC
Feature image courtesy The Library of Congress
