Important Book Events: Fairs, Festivals, and Conferences

To Add an Event to Our List: Simply share the event’s information on our African-American Literature Discussion Forum. Because of AALBC.com’s popularity your event will be easy to find by potential attendees, participants, and sponsors. We also select events from this list to share with readers of our monthly eNewsletter.

Here is printable list of events. You may add this events listing to your website or blog, with a single line of code. Also, check out our Events Archives.

144 Events Coming Up

ALA Conference
Chicago, Illinois, 

Hosted by: American Library Association
Dates: Thursday, June 22, 2017 to Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Website: ALA Conference

Description:

ALA Annual Conference is the premier global library event each year, bringing together the newsmakers, innovators, thought leaders, and influencers in the library field, from all over the world. News is made at these events, where important announcements are made, updates are shared, relevant legislation and policy are addressed, and discussions take place that have a major impact on libraries, their role, and their ongoing transformation. This event trends nationally on Twitter and are extensively covered in the media.

Learn more about ALA Conference on AALBC.com. (112)
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Community Book Center Homefest
Community Book Center, New Orleans, Louisiana

Hosted by: Vera Warren
Dates: Thursday, June 29, 2017 to Saturday, July 1, 2017

Website: Community Book Center Homefest
Phone: 504-948-7323
Email: readcbcnola@aol.com

Description:

Learn more about Community Book Center Homefest on AALBC.com. (27)
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Harlem Book Fair
West 135th Street, Harlem, New York

Hosted by: Max Rodriguez
Date: Saturday, July 15, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Website: Harlem Book Fair
Email: hbf@qbr.com

Description:

The Harlem Book Fair was to create access to the transformative power of reading by celebrating, encouraging, and promoting literacy and literacy awareness through public programs, community participation, corporate partnerships and in-school programs that broaden and strengthen the vitality of the African American community. The Harlem Book Fair is the United State’s largest African-American book fair and the nation’s flagship Black literary event. Held annually in Harlem, NY, the Harlem Book Fair features exhibition booths, panel discussions, book sales, and workshops.

Learn more about Harlem Book Fair on AALBC.com. (26)
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The Soulful Chicago Book Fair
61st Street from Cottage Grove to King Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Hosted by: Asadah Kirkland
Date: Sunday, July 16, 2017
Time:

Website: The Soulful Chicago Book Fair
Email: soulfulchicagobookfair@gmail.com

Description:

The Soulful Chicago Book Fair is a FREE, outdoor, celebration of literacy and literary arts found throughout the African Diaspora. It is Chicago’s only living “author-centric” festival, filled with OUR stories told through books, spoken word, storytelling, songwriting, play writing and art!

Learn more about The Soulful Chicago Book Fair on AALBC.com. (109)
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The Atlanta Kick Back
2000 Convention Center Concourse, College Park, Georgia

Hosted by: 556 Book Chicks Book Club
Date: Saturday, July 22, 2017
Time: 12 to 4 p.m.

Website: The Atlanta Kick Back
Email: atlantakickback@gmail.com

Description:

556 Book Chicks is an award winning book club, founded in 2012 by 3 friends and co-workers (Benita, Monika, and Tiffany). It started as just a book club - discussing and meeting authors. Over the past year the book club has grown into an Atlanta Book Signing Festival.

Learn more about The Atlanta Kick Back on AALBC.com. (158)
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National Book Club Conference
Loews Atlanta Hotel, Atlanta, Georgia

Hosted by: National Book Club Conference Foundation
Dates: Friday, July 28, 2017 to Sunday, July 30, 2017

Website: National Book Club Conference

Description:

Over the course of 15 years, some of the most famous and talented authors have been a part of what the NBCC calls “literary bliss”. Important to the NBCC, however, is to introduce new or lesser-known authors that have created stories that are entertaining, informative and important.

Learn more about National Book Club Conference on AALBC.com. (32)
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The 33rd Annual Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair
The Denver Mart - I-25 & 58th Avenue, Denver, Denver, Colorado

Hosted by: Rocky Mountain Antiquarian Booksellers Association (RMABA)
Dates: Friday, August 4, 2017 to Saturday, August 5, 2017

Website: The 33rd Annual Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair
Email: bookfair2016@rmaba.org

Description:

The Rocky Mountain Book & Paper Fair will have guest speakers who will discuss the Mystery genre. Once again we will have the Book Arts displays and demonstrations including the Preservation Station. Whether you are a serious collector; print enthusiast, or casual shopper, the RMBPF has a lot to offer from rare books and maps to cultural oddities and whimsical finds.

Over 80 exhibitors from across the nation have selected their best inventory to present at the fair. If you’re looking for something specific, ask our exhibitors, you never know what they have in store that you have been hoping to acquire or might never have imagined exists!

Learn more about The 33rd Annual Rocky Mountain Book and Paper Fair on AALBC.com. (113)
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Toronto Urban Book Expo
Toronto Centre for the Arts, Toronto, Canada

Hosted by: Kya Publishing
Date: Sunday, August 6, 2017
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Website: Toronto Urban Book Expo
Email: info@kyapublishing.com

Description:

Kya Publishing’s TUBE is the only Canadian event dedicated to celebrating urban fiction. It is an annual exposition of contemporary urban writers where authors and publishers have the opportunity to display, sell, and communicate their projects while promoting support and recognition for urban literature, literacy, and culture.

Learn more about Toronto Urban Book Expo on AALBC.com. (168)
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National Conference of African American Librarians
Grand Hyatt Buckhead, Atlanta, Georgia

Dates: Wednesday, August 9, 2017 to Sunday, August 13, 2017

Website: National Conference of African American Librarians

Description:

The Black Caucus of the American Library Association serves as an advocate for the development, promotion, and improvement of library services and resources to the nation’s African American community; and provides leadership for the recruitment and professional development of African American librarians.

Learn more about National Conference of African American Librarians on AALBC.com. (46)
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The Writivism Festival
Kampala, Uganda, 

Hosted by: Centre for African Cultural Excellence (CACE)
Dates: Thursday, August 17, 2017 to Sunday, August 20, 2017

Website: The Writivism Festival

Description:

It is part of Writivism, the organization’s flagship initiative that identifies, mentors and promotes emerging African writers. The festival is Uganda’s leading literary event and is celebrates various arts around an annual theme.

Learn more about The Writivism Festival on AALBC.com. (166)
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Leimert Park Village Book Fair
Outdoor Promenade of the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza (BHCP), Los Angeles, California

Date: Saturday, August 19, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Website: Leimert Park Village Book Fair
Email: info@leimertparkboofair.com

Description:

See Press Release

The Leimert Park Village Book Fair was founded in 2006 by Cynthia E. Exum with the goal of promoting literacy and education in Los Angeles. The Leimert Park Village Book Fair was inspired by a project in February 1999 when Ms. Exum partnered with Our Authors Study Club, Inc. to present a ‘Festival of African American Authors’ at Los Angeles Southwest College. Its success in drawing 10 authors participating for an audience of 40 inspired the idea of creating an annual literary event.

Today, the Annual Leimert Park Village Book Fair attracts over 200 authors, poets, spoken word artists, storytellers, performers, and literary/educational exhibitor participants – and boasts an audience of over 5,000. Since its inception the Leimert Park Village Book Fair has grown in popularity and prestige becoming a cultural tradition and premier summer literary event.

Learn more about Leimert Park Village Book Fair on AALBC.com. (34)
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Mississippi Book Festival
Mississippi State Capitol, Jackson, Mississippi

Date: Saturday, August 19, 2017
Time: 9:00 a.m.

Website: Mississippi Book Festival
Phone: 769.717.2648
Email: info@msbookfestival.com

Description:

The Mississippi Book Festival, a nonprofit founded by literacy advocates, launched in August 2015 on the State Capitol grounds and continues to draw thousands to its annual “literary lawn party” and book lovers’ celebration.

Learn more about Mississippi Book Festival on AALBC.com. (153)
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Onyxcon
WOLF CREEK LIBRARY located at 3100 Enon Road, Atlanta, Georgia

Dates: Saturday, August 26, 2017 to Sunday, August 27, 2017

Website: Onyxcon
Email: onyxcon@gmail.com

Description:

ONXCON is a convention, festival, and celebration.
We promote, showcase, educate, and entertain all fans of the Sequential Arts and related media. We EDUTAIN! We feature independent and legendary creators of comics, books, film, and other media with a focus on African Diaspora culture, concepts, interests, and general markets. Ultimately we represent diversity in these Arts and so we are open to representing all POPULAR ARTS that are CONSCIOUSLY DIVERSE! Our event is for everyone, and is a progressive and diverse networking event for professionals as well as enthusiasts who appreciate our showcase. Because comic books/comic strips have long stood as the foundation Art form of this type of convention, comics are a major feature. But ONYXCON IS NOT LIMITED TO COMIC BOOKS. Our events highlight other literary genres like speculative fiction, as well as video games, collectable toys and models, films/documentaries, and all other media related to the Popular Arts.

Learn more about Onyxcon on AALBC.com. (2)
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Utah Humanities Council Book Festival
Salt Lake City, Utah, 

Date: September 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Utah Humanities Council Book Festival
Phone: 801.359.9670 x104
Email: mclane@utahhumanities.org

Description:

The annual Utah Humanities Book Festival is Utah’s oldest and only statewide book festival and has become Utah’s signature literary event.

Each year, the festival is a chance for book lovers of all types to enjoy some great, free-of-charge literary events at locations throughout Utah.

Learn more about Utah Humanities Council Book Festival on AALBC.com. (94)
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Mid-South Book Festival
Playhouse on the Square and Circuit Playhouse, Memphis, Tennessee

Hosted by: Literacy Mid-South
Date: September 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Mid-South Book Festival

Description:

The Mid-South Book Festival has dozens of writers scheduled and more than 50 free events planned, including panel discussions, author presentations, author readings, book signings, writing seminars, and sessions for aspiring writers, plus events designed especially for kids.

Learn more about Mid-South Book Festival on AALBC.com. (125)
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AJC Decatur Book Festival
Venue TBD, Decatur, Georgia

Dates: Friday, September 1, 2017 to Sunday, September 3, 2017

Website: AJC Decatur Book Festival
Phone: 404.666.2112
Email: juliew@decaturbookfestival.com

Description:

In 2005, while driving back from the South Carolina Book Festival with a friend, Daren Wang wondered aloud: How does Columbia, S.C., sustain a successful book festival while metropolitan Atlanta does not?

Atlanta is well known for its many festivals these events shape the summer landscape of Atlanta. But despite several earlier attempts, there still was no free festival celebrating the written word.

Over the course of that drive from Columbia, Wang hatched a plan to establish a book festival modeled after the overwhelmingly successful Decatur Arts Festival. Decatur, a small town six miles east of Atlanta, is one of the most pedestrian-friendly towns in Georgia

The AJC Decatur Book Festival is the largest independent book festival in the country and one of the five largest overall. Since its launch, more than 1,000 world-class authors and hundreds of thousands of festival-goers have crowded the historic downtown Decatur square.

Learn more about AJC Decatur Book Festival on AALBC.com. (36)
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Library of Congress National Book Festival
Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC, District of Columbia

Date: Saturday, September 2, 2017
Time:

Website: Library of Congress National Book Festival
Email: bookfest@loc.gov

Description:

Mark your calendars for the 16th Anniversary National Book Festival, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2016, at the Washington Convention Center. Follow the excitement via our hashtag, #NatBookFest.

Learn more about Library of Congress National Book Festival on AALBC.com. (64)
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Great American Book Festival
Main Street Square, Rapid City, South Dakota

Hosted by: Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews
Date: Saturday, September 2, 2017
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Website: Great American Book Festival

Description:

The Great American Book Festival was created by the founders of Literary Classics Book Awards & Reviews

In an effort to support the literary arts, Literary Classics Book Awards and Reviews has created the Great American Book Festival. To be held annually, this event has become home to the Literary Classics Book Awards and related events, and will be held in conjunction with a book festival. The Great American Book Festival is slated to be held each year on Labor Day weekend. The festival is open to the public and authors from all regions and genres are invited to participate along with related vendors and food purveyors.

Learn more about Great American Book Festival on AALBC.com. (145)
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Open Book Cape Town
The Book Lounge and the Fugard Theatre, Capetown, South Africa

Dates: Wednesday, September 6, 2017 to Sunday, September 10, 2017

Website: Open Book Cape Town

Description:

Open Book Cape Town is committed to encouraging a love of books and reading. Five days of the year—while tremendously exciting—is not going to do that. It is for that reason that we have begun a number of projects that we will have continued involvement with, ensuring a significant and sustainable impact. (read more)

Learn more about Open Book Cape Town on AALBC.com. (160)
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Carolina Mountains Literary Festival
Burnsville, North Carolina, 

Dates: Thursday, September 7, 2017 to Saturday, September 9, 2017

Website: Carolina Mountains Literary Festival
Email: cmlitfest@gmail.com

Description:

The festival idea was born when a small group of local citizens and businesspersons spontaneously came together ten years ago around the goal of giving greater exposure to the art of writing and the joys of reading in an area already famed for its colony of artists in other media. Originally, that group consisted of literacy advocate Myrna Stephens; Wendy Reid, owner of The Design Gallery; poet Britt Kaufmann; children’s book author Karen Miller; artist Anne Sabri, and health care consultant and aspiring writer Ruth Perschbacher Price and her husband, historical novelist Charles F. Price. Now it also includes Dr. Dan Barron, former director of the Avery-Mitchell-Yancey Regional Libraries, downtown booster Lucy Gregory Doll, poet and community volunteer Kathy Weisfeld, librarian, runner, super-mom and new director of the Avery-Mitchell-Yancey Regional Libraries Amber Westall Briggs, artist and arts advocate Jane Brown Willig, and many others.

Learn more about Carolina Mountains Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (86)
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The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers
Hobart, New York, 

Dates: Friday, September 8, 2017 to Sunday, September 10, 2017

Website: The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers
Phone: 607-538-9222
Email: hobartfestivalofwomenwriters@gmail.com

Description:

The Festival of Women Writers has become a highly anticipated event, unique among cultural happenings in the Catskill Region, especially in Delaware County. The Festival will celebrate its fourth year in the Hobart Book Village, “the reading capital of New York State.” Since its inception, the Festival has created space for established and emerging women writers to share their insights and skills through a variety of writing activities and public readings with audiences throughout Delaware County, the state of New York, and beyond.

Poet Cheryl Clarke, novelist Breena Clarke, and Barbara Balliet are festival’s cofounders.

Learn more about The Fifth Annual Festival of Women Writers on AALBC.com. (156)
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BWABC Literacy Festival
Memphis Cook Convention Center, Memphis , Tennessee

Hosted by: The BWABC Literacy Association
Dates: Friday, September 15, 2017 to Saturday, September 16, 2017

Website: BWABC Literacy Festival

Description:

BWABC Literacy Festival is an annual festival accepting and open to all regardless of gender, race, national origin, religion, age, marital status, or disability. Our mission is to promote literacy by connecting authors primarily with avid readers, book clubs, authors and publishers. It is held in September during National Literacy Month.

At the festival you can meet, engage and network with authors, book clubs and avid readers from across the nation, purchase books to support literacy, walk the book club ‘purple carpet,’participate in games, win door prizes, Children’s corner, attend book club panel discussions, enter essay contests to win a number of prizes and awards! It is a FAMILY FRIENDLY FESTIVAL AND FREE TO ALL!

The event is held every year, the 3rd weekend of September. Friday is the author’s networking and Saturday is the day festival is open to public.

Learn more about BWABC Literacy Festival on AALBC.com. (37)
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Burlington Book Festival
UVM’s Dudley H. Davis Center and Other Venues, Burlington, Vermont

Hosted by: Rick Kisonak, Festival Director
Dates: Friday, September 15, 2017 to Sunday, September 17, 2017

Website: Burlington Book Festival
Phone: 802-658-3328

Description:

The Queen City’s annual celebration of the written word offers readings, book signings, panels, workshops, demos, family activities, and special events featuring literary luminaries from around the world and just around the corner. All events are free and open to the public.

Learn more about Burlington Book Festival on AALBC.com. (123)
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The Children’s Book Festival
Parkside Learning Garden, Camden, New Jersey

Hosted by: ADC Kid and Hampton Publishing House
Date: Saturday, September 16, 2017
Time: 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Website: The Children’s Book Festival
Email: iamadckid@gmail.com

Description:

This festival will be held in association with the Haddon Avenue Street Festival at Parkside Learning Garden. It was created for the sole purpose of encouraging children to read, be healthy, and connecting them with authors of the books they read.

Learn more about The Children’s Book Festival on AALBC.com. (115)
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Brooklyn Book Festival
Various Venues, Brooklyn, New York

Hosted by: Brooklyn Book Festival, Inc. and Brooklyn Book Festival Literary Council
Date: Sunday, September 17, 2017
Time:

Website: Brooklyn Book Festival
Phone: 570-362-6657
Email: lkoch@brooklynbookfestival.org

Description:

The Brooklyn Book Festival is the largest free literary event in New York City, presenting an array of national and international literary stars and emerging authors. One of America’s premier book festivals, this hip, smart diverse gathering attracts thousands of book lovers of all ages to enjoy authors and the festival’s lively literary marketplace.

Learn more about Brooklyn Book Festival on AALBC.com. (38)
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South Dakota Festival of Books
Brookings & Sioux Falls, South Dakota, 

Hosted by: South Dakota Humanities Council
Dates: Thursday, September 21, 2017 to Sunday, September 24, 2017

Website: South Dakota Festival of Books
Phone: 605-688-6113

Description:

The South Dakota Humanities Council celebrates literature, promotes civil conversation, and tells the stories that define our state.

Learn more about South Dakota Festival of Books on AALBC.com. (91)
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Baltimore Book Festival
Baltimore Inner Harbor, Baltimore, Maryland

Dates: Friday, September 22, 2017 to Sunday, September 24, 2017

Website: Baltimore Book Festival
Phone: 410-752-8632
Email: baltimorebookfestival@promotionandarts.org

Description:

The Baltimore Book Festival features hundreds of appearances by local, celebrity and nationally known authors, book signings, more than 100 exhibitors and booksellers, nonstop readings on multiple stages, cooking demos by top chefs, poetry readings, workshops, panel discussions, storytellers and hands-on projects for kids, live music, and a thoughtfully curated food, craft beer, and wine program.

Learn more about Baltimore Book Festival on AALBC.com. (39)
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Fall Into Fiction
Four Points by Sheraton, Emeryville, California

Hosted by: United California African-American Bookclubs (UCAAB)
Dates: Friday, September 22, 2017 to Sunday, September 24, 2017

Website: Fall Into Fiction
Email: ucaabookclubs@yahoo.com

Description:

UCAAB was created as a way for African-American book clubs in California to network, support, and promote our reading groups, black-owned independent bookstores, and the authors we love to read. Many of us live, work, and meet in the same area; but, rarely do we get a chance to come together as ONE! UCAAB is our way of officially creating and sustaining a cohesive environment that celebrates each member’s (book club or individual) uniqueness, encourages community bonding, embraces fellowship, and supports the literary contributions of authors of African descent.

One of the primary goals of UCAAB is to bring book lovers and authors together on the west coast. We accomplish this by hosting our annual Fall into Fiction literary event. This is just one of the ways we get the attention of publishers, so they will begin to include California on all of their authors' book tours.

Learn more about Fall Into Fiction on AALBC.com. (101)
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1st Annual Black Book Conference & Expo
National Black Theater, New York, New York

Hosted by: Black Expo America Inc.
Dates: Friday, September 22, 2017 to Saturday, September 23, 2017

Website: 1st Annual Black Book Conference & Expo
Price: $15

Description:

The mission of the expo is to expose the public to independently published books, encourage reading, and to showcase authors, editors, publishers, scholars, and writers.

Learn more about 1st Annual Black Book Conference & Expo on AALBC.com. (169)
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Jaipur Literature Festival in Boulder
Boulder Library and Civic Lawns, Boulder, Colorado

Date: Saturday, September 23, 2017
Time:

Website: Jaipur Literature Festival in Boulder
Email: contact@teamworkarts.com

Description:

Learn more about Jaipur Literature Festival in Boulder on AALBC.com. (63)
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Fall for the Book
George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus, Fairfax, Virginia

Hosted by: William Miller
Dates: Wednesday, October 11, 2017 to Saturday, October 14, 2017

Website: Fall for the Book
Phone: 703-993-3986
Email: executivedirector[@]fallforthebook.org

Description:

What began as a two-day literary event in 1999, organized by George Mason University and the City of Fairfax, has expanded into a week-long, multiple-venue, regional festival that brings together people of all ages and interests, thanks to growing community interest and generous supporting partners.

Events take place at George Mason University’s Fairfax Campus, the festival’s base, and at other locations throughout Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland.

Learn more about Fall for the Book on AALBC.com. (98)
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Morristown Festival of Books
Morristown, New Jersey, 

Dates: Friday, October 13, 2017 to Saturday, October 14, 2017

Website: Morristown Festival of Books
Email: info@morristownfestivalofbooks.org

Description:

The Morristown Festival of Books celebrates the power of the written word to challenge, transport and transform us, while bringing together our community in conversation.

Modeled after successful book festivals in other communities throughout the world, the Morristown Festival of Books brings together acclaimed authors with readers and book lovers.

Learn more about Morristown Festival of Books on AALBC.com. (124)
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African American Literary Awards Show
Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, New York, New York

Hosted by: Yvette Hayward
Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: African American Literary Awards Show
Email: yvette@literaryawardshow.com

Description:

The African American Literary Award show is the brainchild of Yvette Hayward. She came up with the idea in 1996 and was finally able to bring it to fruition in September 2004.

Learn more about African American Literary Awards Show on AALBC.com. (41)
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Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony
Washington Plaza Hotel, Washington, District of Columbia

Hosted by: Hurston/Wright Foundation
Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony

Description:

Named for literary geniuses, Zora Neale Hurston and Richard Wright, the Hurston/Wright Foundation was founded in 1990. Hurston/Wright was established to be a resource center for training and a gateway to ensure the unique experience and voice of African Americans in literature.

The Hurston/Wright Foundation ​is a literary education institution committed to the development, dissemination and preservation of literature with a focus on the contributions of African American writers. By preserving and honoring African Americans in literature, the Foundation ensures this vital part of American literature will continue to remain available to all readers.

The Hurston/Wright Foundation serves aspiring and emerging writers, published authors, readers and supporters of Black literature. Hurston/Wright programs, awards, special events and literary resources aim to impact the literature community and those who contribute to the enrichment of it.

Learn more about Hurston/Wright Legacy Awards Ceremony on AALBC.com. (44)
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Northern Arizona Book Festival
Locally owned businesses throughout the historic downtown, Flagstaff, Arizona

Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Northern Arizona Book Festival
Email: nazbookfest@gmail.com

Description:
The Northern Arizona Book Festival will bring a weeklong literary extravaganza filled with readings, workshops, and book signings.

Learn more about Northern Arizona Book Festival on AALBC.com. (57)
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San Diego City College Book Fair
University of Southern California Los Angeles, San Diego, California

Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: San Diego City College Book Fair
Email: nmandilaw@sdccd.edu

Description:

Learn more about San Diego City College Book Fair on AALBC.com. (61)
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Ashland Literary Festival
Hannon Library, Southern Oregon University, Ashland, Oregon

Hosted by: Southern Oregon University
Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Ashland Literary Festival
Email: libraryevents@sou.edu

Description:

We have a great lineup of authors, publishers, illustrators and more from throughout the Pacific Northwest, so mark your calendars and get ready for the fun!

Learn more about Ashland Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (90)
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Literary Festival of Charlotte
Little Rock Cultural Center, Charlotte, North Carolina

Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Literary Festival of Charlotte

Description:

One of the best highlights from our 2014 event that embodies the push for literacy was the inspiring reading by Kyla McKenzie, the promising child author of My God is Awesome. She was only 5 yrs old when she convinced her mom to support her vision.

We know there are more Kyla’s in the region and want to find, support, and empower them. While each year’s event is supposed to be fun and memorable, the intent is to make it meaningful and provide a means and outlet to help close the literacy gaps that ultimately affects everyone.

Learn more about Literary Festival of Charlotte on AALBC.com. (104)
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Carolina Book Fest
Marriott City Center, Charlotte, North Carolina

Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Carolina Book Fest
Email: carolinabookfest@gmail.com
Price: $15

Description:
Large Author Book Signing

Learn more about Carolina Book Fest on AALBC.com. (129)
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East of the River Book Festival
Rocketship Rise Academy, Washington, District of Columbia

Date: October 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: East of the River Book Festival
Phone: 202-997-4441
Email: info@eastoftheriverbookfestival.com

Description:

The East of the River Book Festival is an event for readers of all ages. To meet the demand of culturally diverse books, this event highlights the creative work of authors who are independently published and/or from small presses in the local area. This year, our vision has expanded to include the talents of poets and bloggers.

Learn more about East of the River Book Festival on AALBC.com. (135)
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Alaska Book Week
Statewide, , Alaska

Hosted by: Alaska Center for the Book
Dates: Sunday, October 1, 2017 to Saturday, October 7, 2017

Website: Alaska Book Week
Email: alaskabookweek@gmail.com

Description:

Alaska Book Week was established in 2011 by 49 Writers to spotlight Alaska's authors and their books. Since then it has grown into a state-wide celebration, coordinated by a coalition of organizations: the Alaska Center for the Book, 49 Writers, the Alaska State Library, and Anchorage Public Library.

Learn more about Alaska Book Week on AALBC.com. (56)
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Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival
Los Gatos Library, Friends of The Library, Village House of Books, NUMU, Los Gatos Lodge, Hotel Los Gatos, Gallery 24 and C.B. Hannegan’s., Los Gatos, California

Hosted by: Irish Culture Bay Area
Dates: Thursday, October 5, 2017 to Sunday, October 8, 2017

Website: Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival
Phone: 415 640-3840
Email: writersweeklosgatos@gmail.com

Description:

In the tradition of Ireland's famous Writers' Week in Listowel. Enjoy readings, speaker events, panel discussions and in-conversation events with some of today's top writers in the charming town of Los Gatos.

Learn more about Los Gatos—Listowel Writers’s Festival on AALBC.com. (126)
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New York Comic Con
Javitz Center, New York, New York

Hosted by: ReedPOP Events
Dates: Thursday, October 5, 2017 to Sunday, October 8, 2017

Website: New York Comic Con
Email: Inquiry@NYComicCon.com

Description:

“…if you’re a speculative fiction author (horror, fantasy, paranormal, urban fantasy, sci-fi, etc.) you should definitely go”—Cerece Rennie Murphy

New York Comic Con is the East Coast's biggest and most exciting popular culture convention. Our Show Floor plays host to the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies, and television.

Learn more about New York Comic Con on AALBC.com. (139)
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The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair
Morgan State University - University Student Center Building, Timonium, Maryland

Date: Saturday, October 7, 2017
Time: 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Website: The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair
Email: africanamerican expo@gmail.com

Description:

2016 marks seven years of event excellence in Maryland for the African American Author’s Expo (AAAE). AAAE has a reputable reputation for showcasing hundreds of independent authors/artists from across the nation at its annual literary events. AAAE’s mission is to create a platform that exposes independent authors to the general public while helping authors make connections with national book clubs, provide entrepreneurial workshops and author seminars.

The Authors & Empowerment expo and all of its workshops and panels are free and open to public. You will find workshops on writing, marketing, branding and how to make sales. Panel discussion on Reality TV shows, Hip-Hop and social media, publishing panel and relationship panel. Pitch competitions for college students and authors.

Learn more about The African American Author’s Expo and Multi-Cultural Book Fair on AALBC.com. (35)
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Collingswood Book Festival
Along Haddon Avenue, Downtown Collingswood, NJ, Collingswood, New Jersey

Hosted by: Collingswood Public Library
Date: Saturday, October 7, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Website: Collingswood Book Festival
Email: nfo@collingswoodbookfestival.com

Description:
Book lovers of all ages: join us on Saturday, October 7, 2017. Stroll more than six blocks of Haddon Avenue filled with authors/speakers for adults and children, as well as booksellers, storytellers, poetry readings, workshops, exhibitors, kid-friendly activities, and entertainment for all ages. This award-winning festival is the longest-running, largest literary event in the Delaware Valley. Remember, all events are free!

Learn more about Collingswood Book Festival on AALBC.com. (106)
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High Desert Book Festival
Victorville, California, 14343 Civic Drive

Hosted by: Victor Valley Arts and Education Center
Date: Saturday, October 7, 2017
Time:

Website: High Desert Book Festival
Email: hdbookfest@gmail.com

Description:
The High Desert Book Festival will include lectures and book signings by guest authors, booths for our many local published writers, lectures on the writing craft, a small indie publishing house, speakers who are professionals in their field, book-related merchandise for sale, and a children’s book corner with storytelling.

Learn more about High Desert Book Festival on AALBC.com. (136)
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Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair)
Frankfurt Trade Fair Grounds, Frankfurt, Germany

Hosted by: Frankfurter Buchmesse GmbH
Dates: Wednesday, October 11, 2017 to Sunday, October 15, 2017

Website: Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair)
Email: contact@book-fair.com

Description:

Authors read this if you plan to attend.

The Frankfurt Book Fair is perhaps the world’s largest trade fair for books, based on the number of participating publishing companies and attendees.

Learn more about Frankfurter Buchmesse (Frankfurt Book Fair) on AALBC.com. (164)
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Brattleboro Literary Festival
Brattleboro, Vermont, 

Dates: Thursday, October 12, 2017 to Sunday, October 15, 2017

Website: Brattleboro Literary Festival
Phone: 802-579-7414
Email: vtbookfest@gmail.com

Description:
The Festival is a four-day celebration of those who read books, those who write books, and of the books themselves. Located in downtown Brattleboro, Vermont, the Festival includes readings, panel discussions, and special events, featuring emerging and established authors. All events are FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

Learn more about Brattleboro Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (128)
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Fort Worth BookFest
Various, Fort Worth, Texas

Dates: Thursday, October 12, 2017 to Sunday, October 15, 2017

Website: Fort Worth BookFest
Email: fwbookfest2017@gmail.com

Description:

Organized in April 2016, a cross-cultural, community-driven Action Group is spearheading the Fort Worth BookFest effort. Our Group has attracted broad support throughout the community among individuals, organizations, elected officials, and institutions.

Our goal is to raise awareness of the transformative power of literacy through the BookFest platform to showcase the wealth of talent among all cultures that call Fort Worth and the southwest region (our marketing area – TX, NM, OK, AR, and LA) home. We have collaborated with Max Rodriguez, founder and producer of the famed Harlem Book Fair for his 18-years of Book Fair production experience.

Learn more about Fort Worth BookFest on AALBC.com. (151)
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The Cavalcade of Authors
Hotel Allegro, Chicago, Illinois

Hosted by: Marcro Marketing and Promotions Group
Dates: Friday, October 13, 2017 to Sunday, October 15, 2017

Website: The Cavalcade of Authors
Phone: 888.854.8823

Description:

The Cavalcade of Authors is the ultimate event where readers and book clubs tour Chicago with their favorite authors. Join us for a weekend of private dinners, intimate chats, dancing, shopping, games, and so much more.

Learn more about The Cavalcade of Authors on AALBC.com. (40)
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Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend
The Comfort Inn of Bowie, Bowie, Maryland

Hosted by: Sharon Lucas and The Reading Divas Book Club
Dates: Friday, October 13, 2017 to Saturday, October 14, 2017

Website: Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend
Email: sharon@sharonrlucas.com

Description:

The BARR Weekend is a two-day networking conference held annually in Bowie, MD. BARR brings authors and readers together to celebrate the written word of the often overlooked, overworked and often underrated AA author.

The conference features a 20 to 25-person Expo, which includes new, emerging and nationally recognized authors. Panel discussions and workshops are aimed at expanding the knowledge of the discerning reader and fledgling author.

Learn more about Black Authors & Readers Rock Weekend on AALBC.com. (42)
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Twin Cities Book Festival
MINNESOTA STATE FAIRGROUNDS, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Hosted by: Rain Taxi
Dates: Friday, October 13, 2017 to Saturday, October 14, 2017

Website: Twin Cities Book Festival

Description:

The Twin Cities Book Festival—brought to you by Rain Taxi—is not only the largest and most important literary gathering in the Upper Midwest, it is the annual get-together for the Twin Cities’ devoted literary community. This FREE, day-long festival brings people together to celebrate our vibrant literary culture. The festival welcomes ‘rock star’ authors, local literary heroes, publishers, magazines, booksellers—all of whom connect over great books and conversations.

Learn more about Twin Cities Book Festival on AALBC.com. (79)
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Southern Festival of Books
Nashville, Tennessee, 

Hosted by: Humanities Tennessee
Dates: Friday, October 13, 2017 to Sunday, October 15, 2017

Website: Southern Festival of Books

Description:

The Southern Festival of Books: A Celebration of the Written Word^SM is a three-day Festival celebrated each year during the second full weekend of October. It is free and open to the public. No advance registration or tickets are required. All seating is on a first-come basis.

The Festival annually welcomes more than 200 authors from throughout the nation and in every genre for readings, panel discussions and book signings. Book lovers have the opportunity to hear from and meet some of America's foremost writers in fiction, history, mystery, food, biography, travel, poetry and children's literature among others.

Learn more about Southern Festival of Books on AALBC.com. (92)
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York Book Expo
334 Carlisle Ave, York, Pennsylvania

Hosted by: Demi Stevens
Date: Saturday, October 14, 2017
Time: 9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Website: York Book Expo
Email: demi@yotbpress.com

Description:

There’s something for all ages to experience at York Book Expo. You will be able to buy books from more than 100 authors, and have them personalized and autographed, too! Kids can read to the Happy Tails Therapy Dogs, and enjoy awesome crafts and activities all day. Aspiring writers can sign up for free writing workshops.

Learn more about York Book Expo on AALBC.com. (142)
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Vancouver Writers Fest
Granville Island, and two off Site Venues, Vancouver, Canada

Dates: Monday, October 16, 2017 to Sunday, October 22, 2017

Website: Vancouver Writers Fest
Phone: 604-681-6330
Email: info@writersfest.bc.ca

Description:

The Vancouver Writers Fest turns reading into a community experience, bringing people together to share thoughts, explore ideas, and witness brilliant conversations.

For the past 30 years, the Writers Fest has enriched our imaginations and the culture of our city and has touched and inspired thousands of lives by creating a forum for authors to connect with readers and by offering a vibrant exchange of ideas and conversation.

The Festival is a celebration of story, told by authors, poets, spoken word performers, and graphic novelists.

Learn more about Vancouver Writers Fest on AALBC.com. (134)
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Virginia Children’s Book Festival
Longwood University, Farmville, Farmville, Virginia

Hosted by: Longwood University
Dates: Thursday, October 19, 2017 to Saturday, October 21, 2017

Website: Virginia Children’s Book Festival
Email: info@vachildrensbookfestival.com

Description:

The Virginia Children’s Book Festival will bring together prominent children’s authors and illustrators and the general public in an annual event designed to foster the enjoyment of children’s literature.

The Virginia Children’s Book Festival will be available to the public without an entrance fee. Children, parents, grandparents, book collectors, and interested members of the public are welcome to attend.

Learn more about Virginia Children’s Book Festival on AALBC.com. (127)
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International Festival of Authors
Harbourfront Centre, Toronto, Canada

Hosted by: IFOA
Dates: Thursday, October 19, 2017 to Friday, October 20, 2017

Website: International Festival of Authors
Phone: 416-973-4760
Email: info@ifoa.org

Description:

Since its inception in 1974, Toronto’s International Festival of Authors has welcomed more than 9,000 authors from over 100 countries, including 22 Nobel Laureates and countless other award winners.

Learn more about International Festival of Authors on AALBC.com. (133)
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Independent Authors Book Expo
Abraham Clark High School, Roselle, New Jersey

Hosted by: Renaee Smith
Date: Saturday, October 21, 2017
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Website: Independent Authors Book Expo
Phone: 973-723-4584
Email: iabex@hotmail.com

Description:

Come out and meet face to face with local and international authors. Friends, family, and the community at large are encouraged to come out and support our budding authors. Authors will make presentations from their books; also games, prizes, promotional giveaways will be available. A wide selection of books will be available for purchase at the event. This event will feature the following: Author exhibits Author Readings and Signings Children's Corner (with Arts and Crafts and Author Readings) Free Workshops and Seminars Book Club Meet and Greet, and much more!

Learn more about Independent Authors Book Expo on AALBC.com. (45)
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Vegas Valley Book Festival
Las Vegas, Nevada, 

Date: Saturday, October 21, 2017
Time:

Website: Vegas Valley Book Festival
Phone: 702.229.5902
Email: plharris@lasvegasnevada.gov

Description:

The Vegas Valley Book Festival, now in its fifteenth year, is a celebration of the written, spoken, and illustrated word. The festival has networked together a community-wide consortium of cultural organizations and sponsors to offer “a one-stop shopping experience for literature” through a wide range of programs built around sharing resources, developing audiences, advancing the craft of writing, and sharing the joys of reading. This annual festival is the largest literary event in Nevada, drawing more that 10,000 attendees during the season. Since its founding in 2002, the festival has presented over 800 authors and speakers and has produced or sponsored over 500 events, sessions, readings, workshops, and book signings. The festival is free and open to the public.

Learn more about Vegas Valley Book Festival on AALBC.com. (82)
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National Black Book Festival
Fallbrook Church / Gymnasium, Houston, Texas

Hosted by: Cushcity.com
Dates: Thursday, October 26, 2017 to Saturday, October 28, 2017

Website: National Black Book Festival
Phone: 1-800-340-5454
Email: info@nationalblackbookfestival.com

Description:

2017 is the Festival’s 10th Anniversary!

The National Black Book Festival (NBBF) is an annual event, sponsored by Cushcity.com, the world's largest African-American retailer online. The event attracts a wide array of authors, publishers, book clubs, libraries and individual readers from the Southwest U.S. and nationwide.

Learn more about National Black Book Festival on AALBC.com. (43)
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The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat
Embassy Suites, Charlotte, North Carolina

Hosted by: Vanessa Miller,
Dates: Thursday, October 26, 2017 to Sunday, October 29, 2017

Website: The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat
Email: info@christianbookloversretreat.com

Description:

The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat is all about Faith, Fun, Fellowship… and a whole lot of books. The first day of the retreat is jam packed with socials, game shows, and parties. The next day kicks off with praise and worship and then it's all about author book discussions and more

Learn more about The Christian Book Lover’s Retreat on AALBC.com. (165)
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West Virginia Book Festival
Charleston Civic Center, Charleston, West Virginia

Dates: Friday, October 27, 2017 to Saturday, October 28, 2017

Website: West Virginia Book Festival
Email: WVBookFestival@kanawhalibrary.org

Description:

Learn more about West Virginia Book Festival on AALBC.com. (95)
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SCIBA Trade Show
Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center, Pomona, California

Hosted by: The Southern California Independent Booksellers Association
Dates: Friday, October 27, 2017 to Saturday, October 28, 2017

Website: SCIBA Trade Show
Phone: 909-938-5809
Email: andrea@scibabooks.org

Description:

The Southern California Independent Booksellers Association (SCIBA) is a non-profit trade association of independent booksellers, book wholesalers, publishers and other industry professionals located primarily in Southern California and Southern Nevada.

Learn more about SCIBA Trade Show on AALBC.com. (121)
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Louisiana Book Festival
State Library of Louisiana and nearby locations, Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Date: Saturday, October 28, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Website: Louisiana Book Festival
Phone: 225.219.9503
Email: lbf@state.lib.la.us

Description:

The Louisiana Center for the Book in the State Library of Louisiana is a free, world-class literary festival last October in downtown Baton Rouge.

Learn more about Louisiana Book Festival on AALBC.com. (72)
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Boston Book Festival
Copley Square, Boston, Massachusetts

Date: Saturday, October 28, 2017
Time:

Website: Boston Book Festival
Phone: 857.259.6999
Email: info@bostonbookfest.org

Description:

The Boston Book Festival celebrates the power of words to stimulate, agitate, unite, delight, and inspire by holding year-round events culminating in an annual, free Festival that promotes a culture of reading and ideas and enhances the vibrancy of our city.

Learn more about Boston Book Festival on AALBC.com. (76)
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Books by the Banks
Duke Energy Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio

Date: Saturday, October 28, 2017
Time: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Website: Books by the Banks
Email: contact@booksbythebanks.org

Description:

More than 5,000 people and more than 150 authors made the 2015 Books by the Banks book festival our biggest year yet. Our planning teams are already getting ready for 2016. But first, take a look back at what people had to say about our most recent festival. We hope you had as much as fun as they did. See you in 2016!

Learn more about Books by the Banks on AALBC.com. (87)
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Third Annual Festival Albertine
Albertine store on Fifth Avenue at 79th Street, New York, New York

Hosted by: Cultural Services of the French Embassy and Albertine Books
Date: November 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Third Annual Festival Albertine

Description:

American participants will include the poet Claudia Rankine, the curator Thelma Golden, the novelist Darryl Pinckney, the artist Kehinde Wiley, the dance historian Jennifer Homans and the director Ryan Coogler (who is directing the film “Black Panther,” based on the Marvel comic whose recent reboot was written by Mr. Coates).

They will be paired with French counterparts including the sociologist and anthropologist Nacira Gu´nif-Souilamas, the author Amin Maalouf and the dancer and choreographer Benjamin Millepied.

Learn more about Third Annual Festival Albertine on AALBC.com. (116)
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Wisconsin Book Festival
Madison Public Library, Madison, Wisconsin

Dates: Thursday, November 2, 2017 to Sunday, November 5, 2017

Website: Wisconsin Book Festival
Email: bookfest@mplfoundation.org

Description:

The Wisconsin Book Festival is Wisconsin's premier literary event. Every October we draw a local and regional audience of 12,000-15,000 people for four days of author events. Our year-round series of events has drawn more than 15,000 people to an additional 75 events over the past two years. Madison's proximity to Chicago, Minneapolis, Milwaukee, and Iowa City makes it an easy addition to any tour through the Midwest. As the State Capitol and home to the University of Wisconsin, Madison boasts an engaged and active literary community who have shown a dedication to supporting great author programming.

Learn more about Wisconsin Book Festival on AALBC.com. (96)
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Texas Book Festival
State Capitol and surrounding grounds, Austin, Texas

Dates: Saturday, November 4, 2017 to Sunday, November 5, 2017

Website: Texas Book Festival
Email: bookfest@texasbookfestival.org

Description:

The Texas Book Festival (#TXBOOKFEST) celebrates authors and their contributions to the culture of literacy, ideas, and imagination.

The Texas Book Festival was established in 1995 by Laura Bush, a former librarian and an ardent advocate of literacy. Along with Mary Margaret Farabee, founding co-chair, Mrs. Bush created a task force to plan a book festival to honor Texas authors, promote the joys of reading and serve to benefit the state’s public libraries. The first Festival took place at the Capitol in November 1996.

The signature event has evolved into one of the premier literary events in the country and takes place in and around the State Capitol in Austin, hosting about 250 authors each year. More than 40,000 book lovers of all ages attend the Festival annually, enjoying author readings and presentations, panel discussions, book signings, cooking demonstrations, live music, local food, YA authors, children’s activities, and exhibiting vendors from across the state. While remaining an important showcase for the work of Texas authors, the Texas Book Festival hosts important writers from all over the world and has earned a national reputation for the quality of its programming and its appeal to readers, authors, and publishers alike.

Learn more about Texas Book Festival on AALBC.com. (93)
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Kentucky Book Fair
Frankfort Convention Center, Frankfort, Kentucky

Hosted by: The Kentucky Humanities Council and The Kentucky Book Fair
Dates: Friday, November 10, 2017 to Saturday, November 11, 2017

Website: Kentucky Book Fair
Email: kybookfair@ky.gov

Description:

Kids Day: Friday, November 10, 2017

The Kentucky Book Fair attracts writers of all genres and patrons of all walks of life in a celebration of shared passion and mutual interest—the importance and promotion of writing and reading. Each year nearly 200 authors are present at the Kentucky Book Fair, which seeks to promote and support literacy for the public good.

Learn more about Kentucky Book Fair on AALBC.com. (70)
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Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
University of South Florida, St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg, Florida

Date: Saturday, November 11, 2017
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Website: Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading
Email: LSHELTON@TAMPABAY.COM

Description:

Book. Music. Authors. Food.

Learn more about Tampa Bay Times Festival of Reading on AALBC.com. (66)
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Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival
Portland Art Museum , Portland, Oregon

Hosted by: Literary Arts
Date: Saturday, November 11, 2017
Time:

Website: Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival
Phone: 503.227.2583
Email: la@literary-arts.org
Price: $15

Description:

The festival will include author discussions and activities for readers of all ages, an extensive book fair, pop-up readings and concerts, a beverage garden, and local food trucks.

Learn more about Wordstock: Portland’s Book Festival on AALBC.com. (131)
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National Book Awards
New York, New York, 

Hosted by: National Book Foundation
Date: Wednesday, November 15, 2017
Time:

Website: National Book Awards

Description:

Attendance by invitation only. Watch vidoes the 67th annual National Book Awards (2016), hosted by Larry Wilmore

Learn more about National Book Awards on AALBC.com. (141)
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Ake Arts and Book Festival
Arts and Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Abeokuta, Ogun, Nigeria

Hosted by: The Book Buzz Foundation
Dates: Wednesday, November 15, 2017 to Sunday, November 19, 2017

Website: Ake Arts and Book Festival
Email: info@akefestival.org

Description:

The Book Buzz Foundation is a non-governmental organisation founded by teacher and writer, Lola Shoneyin. The Board of Trustees include Ms Mojisola Adeniran, Abubakar Adam Ibrahim, and Dr Soji Adelaja.

The main aims of the Book Buzz Foundation are three fold:

• To promote literacy, especially amongst children of school-going age
• To develop reading spaces
• To organise literary and cultural events

Through our Project Inspire! initiative which takes place during the Ake Arts and Book Festival, we organise school visits so that accomplished and prominent creatives meet and interact with school children. Ake Festival guests read tho the children, share their experiences and talk to them about the importance of reading and writing. The children are truly inspired by these visits but Ake Festival guests have found it to be a valuable experience.

Learn more about Ake Arts and Book Festival on AALBC.com. (159)
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Bluffton Book Festival
Calhoun Street in Historic Old Town Bluffton, Bluffton, South Carolina

Hosted by: Rockelle Henderson
Dates: Friday, November 17, 2017 to Saturday, November 18, 2017

Website: Bluffton Book Festival
Phone: 843-707-6409
Email: blufftonbookfestival@gmail.com

Description:

The Bluffton Book Festival's mission is to raise money for two non-profit organizations that support literacy, education, reading, authors, bookselling and the publishing community as a whole and to bring awareness to local and national literary talent in the process.

Learn more about Bluffton Book Festival on AALBC.com. (137)
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Miami Book Fair International
Miami, Florida, 

Hosted by: Miami Dade College
Dates: Saturday, November 18, 2017 to Sunday, November 19, 2017

Website: Miami Book Fair International
Phone: 305-237-3258

Description:

The 2016 Fair will take place from November 13-20, with the weekend Street Fair scheduled for the 18th through the 20th.

The first Miami Book Fair International, founded by Miami Dade College and community partners, took place in 1984. Since then, it has been recognized as the nation’s finest literary festival. In 2001, the Fair became part of The Center for Writing and Literature @ Miami Dade College, a cultural and academic initiative that promotes the advancement and appreciation of literature throughout the year.

Learn more about Miami Book Fair International on AALBC.com. (47)
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Mosaic Literary Conference
The Bronx Museum of the Arts, Bronx, New York

Hosted by: The Literary Freedom Project
Date: Saturday, November 18, 2017
Time: 12 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Website: Mosaic Literary Conference
Phone: 347-454-2161
Email: ron@literaryfreedom.org

Description:

The Mosaic Literary Conference provides a platform for literature-based creative thinking and knowledge sharing. Each year we invite educators, community and arts organizations, as well as the public to participate in a variety of workshops.

Learn more about Mosaic Literary Conference on AALBC.com. (49)
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Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete
Chaiwali, New York, New York

Hosted by: Nicole Dennis-Benn and Jason Reynolds
Date: December 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete
Email: amistad30rsvp@harpercollins.com

Description:
RSVP Email: amistad30rsvp@harpercollins.com

Learn more about Harlem Renaissance Holiday Fete on AALBC.com. (50)
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Magical Mirrors Book Fair
Sankofa Video Books & Cafe, Washington, District of Columbia

Date: December 2017 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Magical Mirrors Book Fair
Phone: 202-234-4755

Description:
Magical Mirrors Children's Book Fair features books full of images and imaginations of children of the African Diaspora.

Learn more about Magical Mirrors Book Fair on AALBC.com. (143)
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Abantu Book Festival
Eyethu Lifestyle Centre & Soweto Theatre, Soweto, South Africa

Dates: Thursday, December 7, 2017 to Sunday, December 10, 2017

Website: Abantu Book Festival
Email: molweni@abantubookfestival.co.za

Description:

Abantu Book Festival is an annual literary event held in Soweto, South African’s artistic heartland, featuring authors from South Africa, Africa, and the diaspora. Abantu is the Nguni word for people, which makes this the people’s festival. Our vision is simple—We see a Soweto with a vibrant culture of reading.

Learn more about Abantu Book Festival on AALBC.com. (161)
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ALA Midwinter Meeting
Atlanta, Georgia, 

Hosted by: American Library Association
Date: January 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: ALA Midwinter Meeting

Description:

ALA Annual Conference is the premier global library event each year, bringing together the newsmakers, innovators, thought leaders, and influencers in the library field, from all over the world. News is made at these events, where important announcements are made, updates are shared, relevant legislation and policy are addressed, and discussions take place that have a major impact on libraries, their role, and their ongoing transformation. This event trends nationally on Twitter and are extensively covered in the media.

Learn more about ALA Midwinter Meeting on AALBC.com. (119)
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SDSU Writers’ Conference
San Diego Marriott Mission Valley Hotel, San Diego, California

Hosted by: San Diego State University College of Extended Studies
Date: January 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: SDSU Writers’ Conference
Email: sdsuwritersconference@mail.sdsu.edu

Description:

Whether you’re a beginning writer or a published professional, the San Diego State University Writers’ Conference is for you. Over 30 years old, this conference is designed to help every writer at every level. Learn how to improve your writing skills, develop your marketing awareness, and meet one-on-one with top editors and agents to facilitate the next step in your publishing career.

Learn more about SDSU Writers’ Conference on AALBC.com. (120)
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F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival
Midtown Cultural and Educational Center, Daytona Beach, Florida

Hosted by: Donna M. Gray-Banks
Date: January 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival
Phone: 386-627-4353
Email: freshbookfestivals@gmail.com

Description:
Fiction, Romance, Erotica, Spirituality, Health and more!

Learn more about F.R.E.S.H. Book Festival on AALBC.com. (138)
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Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival
Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa, Florida

Hosted by: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Inc.
Date: January 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival
Phone: 888-224-1733 ext. 3143
Email: programs@tampablackheritage.org

Description:

The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival is an annual, cultural arts & music festival that takes place over the course of 10 days in Tampa Bay, Florida. They host an Author Village. Check out AALBC.com’s coverage of the Author Village in 2017

Learn more about Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival on AALBC.com. (146)
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African American Children’s Book Fair
Community College of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Hosted by: The Literary Media & Publishing Consultants
Date: February 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: African American Children’s Book Fair
Phone: 215-878-2665
Email: vlloydsgam@aol.com

Description:

The African American Children's Book Fair is one of the oldest and largest single-day events for children's books in the country. It features nationally known bestselling authors and illustrators, many of whom have won some of the most prestigious literary awards including the American Library Association Coretta Scott King Award. These authors and illustrators have produced some of the best books of our generation.

Parents, caregivers and educators are very supportive of the African American Children's Book Fair because they understand that children who read outside of their normal school course work tend to make more responsible decisions about their lifestyles.

The fun-filled afternoon is packed with activities that promote the POWER and JOY OF READING. Authors and illustrators will make presentations and sign their books. The Literary Row will distribute book-related promotional materials free of charge. Our Educator's Book Giveaway will also distribute brand new books to teachers and librarians for use in their schools. In addition there will be a wide selection of affordable literature available to purchase.

The African American Children's Book Fair is a part of the African American Children's Book Project's initiative to promote and preserve multicultural children's literature.

The organization is leading a campaign entitled PRESERVE A LEGACY, BUY A BOOK. Its goal is to put books back into children's homes. You can't tell a child to read at home if there are no books. Read an interview the event’s organizer, Vanesse Lloyd-Sgambati

The event is free and opened to the public.

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Virginia Festival of the Book
Charlottesville, Virginia, 145 Ednam Drive, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Hosted by: Virginia Foundation for the Humanities
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Virginia Festival of the Book
Phone: 434 924-7548
Email: vabook@virginia.edu

Description:

Produced by the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities (VFH), the largest of the 56 state (and territory) humanities councils, the Festival is a program of the Virginia Center for the Book, an affiliate of the Center for the Book in the Library of Congress.

The Festival is the largest community-based book event in the Mid-Atlantic region and has attracted audiences of more than 20,000 for each of the past thirteen years. We have presented a captivating list of authors, ranging from international bestsellers to topical specialists to debut authors. An abbreviated list of past participants includes Rick Atkinson, Edward Ayers, David Baldacci, Maureen Corrigan, Edwidge Danticat, Kate DiCamillo, Rita Dove, Alan Furst, John Grisham, Jan Karon, Jim Lehrer, Frances Mayes, Colum McCann, David McCullough, Alice McDermott, Katherine Paterson, Jon Scieszka, Lisa Scottoline, Pete Seeger, Karin Slaughter, Alexander McCall Smith, Lee Smith, Bryan Stevenson, Elizabeth Strout, Judith Viorst, and Charles Wright. A more complete list of past participants can be seen here.

Programs range from traditional author readings and book signings to children’s programs and hands-on workshops. All programs are open to the public and, with the exception of a few ticketed events, the majority of Festival programs are free to attend.

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National Black Writers Conference
Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York

Hosted by: Center for Black Literature
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: National Black Writers Conference
Phone: 718-804-8883
Email: writers@mec.cuny.edu

Description:

The National Black Writers Conference is be held, every two years at Medgar Evers College in Brooklyn, New York. The conference features panels, author readings, roundtable discussions, and educational seminars.

Learn more about National Black Writers Conference on AALBC.com. (7)
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Southwest Florida Reading Festival
Harborside Event Center & Centennial Park, Fort Myers, Florida

Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Southwest Florida Reading Festival
Email: mbyers@leegov.org

Description:

There really is something for all ages to experience at the Southwest Florida Reading Festival. Everyone enjoys the multiple stages with the celebrity authors who share ‘inside scoop’ about their latest books or what makes a story idea click for them. You will be able to buy books and have the authors personalize and sign them too! You’ll find our numerous book and educational vendors offering the latest in services and new ideas. Kids will be mesmerized by the storytellers.

Learn more about Southwest Florida Reading Festival on AALBC.com. (65)
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Dahlonega Literary Festival
Historic Square of Dahlonega, GA, Dahlonega, Georgia

Hosted by: Lumpkin County Literacy Coalition
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Dahlonega Literary Festival
Email: info@savannahbookfestival.org

Description:

The Dahlonega Literary Festival is an annual celebration of books that takes place in March. Situated in Historic Downtown Dahlonega, the festival continues to grow and become more delightful as the years go on. Ours is an intimate festival about books and authors with a mission to promote interaction between readers and writers in a relaxed, informal environment. Visitors have an opportunity to meet and interact with the authors. In addition to attending speaking events and book signings, attendees can have lunch with their favorite authors at a local restaurant.

Past featured authors include: Frances Mayes, Diana Gabaldon, Terry Kay, Deanna Raybourn, Joshilyn Jackson, and many more. Where else can you see, have conversations with, and even dine with bestselling authors while surrounded by the beautiful North Georgia Mountains.

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Oxford Conference for the Book
Oxford, Mississippi, 

Hosted by: Center for the Study of Southern Culture at the University of Mississippi
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Oxford Conference for the Book
Phone: 662.915.3374
Email: jgthomas@olemiss.edu

Description:

The Twenty-Third Oxford Conference for the Book is set for March 2-4, 2016, to bring together fiction and nonfiction writers, journalists, poets, publishers, teachers, and students for three days of readings, lectures, panels, workshops, and social events that celebrate the written word.

Conference panels will explore a wide range of topics, including Mississippi history; childhood in the South; memoir writing; youth, activism, and life in the Mountain South; poetic responses to Langston Hughes; a cultural and culinary history of the pig; Harper Lee’s novels, To Kill a Mockingbird and Go Set a Watchman; the Hurricane Katrina crisis; and America’s continuing debate over science and religion.

Learn more about Oxford Conference for the Book on AALBC.com. (80)
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Kingston Book Festival
Kingston, Jamaica, W.I., 

Hosted by: Book Industry Association of Jamaica
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Kingston Book Festival
Email: kgnbookfest@gmail.com

Description:

The Kingston Book Festival is one of the largest book festivals in the English speaking Caribbean. It comprises 30 events over 8 days with a combined audience of more than 6,000. We also include training and networking sessions for industry professionals as well as special events for vulnerable populations.

All events are free and open to the public unless otherwise indicated. Venues to be confirmed.

Learn more about Kingston Book Festival on AALBC.com. (97)
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Book It
Fulton Street Collective, Chicago, Illinois

Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Book It
Email: bookeuphoriabookit@gmail.com

Description:

We created the Book It event series because we saw a need for more literary events in the Chicagoland area and wanted a place where authors and readers could gather at least twice a year to share their love for books and catch up on all things literary!

Learn more about Book It on AALBC.com. (118)
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The Southern Literary Festival
The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith, Fort Smith, Arkansas

Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Southern Literary Festival

Description:

The Southern Literary Festival is an organization of southern colleges and schools founded in 1937 to promote southern literature.

Each year a different school hosts the festival, an undergraduate writing conference that offers participants workshops, readings, and master classes in a wide variety of genres, including fiction, poetry, playwriting, and non-fiction.

Learn more about The Southern Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (132)
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The Punta Gorda Literary Fair
Herald Court Breezeway and adjacent streets, Punta Gorda, Florida

Hosted by: Copperfish Books and Florida Gulf Coast University
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Punta Gorda Literary Fair
Phone: 941-258-2968

Description:
Literary events take place Monday through Friday, culminating in the big one—Saturday’s street fair featuring artists, musicians, food, and lots of authors and books from 10 a. to 3 p.m. Authors will line the Herald Court Breezeway and adjacent streets. From a children's garden of fun and games to musicians and art, lively workshops, and readings, the book fair offers fun and information for all ages.

Learn more about The Punta Gorda Literary Fair on AALBC.com. (147)
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New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Park Avenue Armory, New York, New York

Hosted by: Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America & International League of Antiquarian Booksellers (sanctioned by)
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: New York Antiquarian Book Fair
Phone: 212.777.5218
Email: info@sanfordsmith.com

Description:

2017 was the 57th year this event was held.

This book fair is officially sanctioned by the Antiquarian Booksellers’ Association of America and the International League of Antiquarian Booksellers. The consumer can rely upon the experience and professionalism of participating dealers and the authenticity of the items available for purchase. All books, manuscripts and related material have been carefully examined for completeness and bibliographic accuracy.

Learn more about New York Antiquarian Book Fair on AALBC.com. (150)
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Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival
Centennial Park in downtown Venice, Venice, Florida

Hosted by: Pam Johnson
Date: March 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival
Email: pamj18@msn.com

Description:

The Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival is a small, unique program hosting writers teaching writers on Friday night, and authors selling and signing their books to the public on Saturday. All proceeds from the Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival go to Venice Heritage Inc., the 501(c) 3 fundraising arm of two historic sites in Venice, the Lord-Higel House, currently under restoration, and the Venice Museum and Archives expansion project.

Learn more about Venice Book Fair and Writers Festival on AALBC.com. (157)
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AWP Conference
Tampa Convention Center & Marriott Tampa Waterside, Tampa, Florida

Dates: Wednesday, March 7, 2018 to Saturday, March 10, 2018

Website: AWP Conference
Phone: 703-993-4317
Email: events@awpwriter.org

Description:

The AWP Conference & Bookfair is an essential annual destination for writers, teachers, students, editors, and publishers. Each year more than 12,000 attendees join our community for four days of insightful dialogue, networking, and unrivaled access to the organizations and opinion-makers that matter most in contemporary literature. The 2016 conference featured over 2,000 presenters and 550 readings, panels, and craft lectures. The book fair hosted over 800 presses, journals, and literary organizations from around the world. AWP is now the largest literary conference in North America.

Learn more about AWP Conference on AALBC.com. (8)
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Tucson Festival of Books
University of Arizona Campus, Tucson, Arizona

Hosted by: John Humenik
Dates: Saturday, March 10, 2018 to Sunday, March 11, 2018

Website: Tucson Festival of Books
Email: chairman@tucsonfestivalofbooks.org

Description:

The Tucson Festival of Books debuted March 14-15, 2009, on the campus of The University of Arizona. The Festival featured 450 authors and presenters and welcomed 50,000 regional visitors, all made possible with generous support from our sponsors and the energetic goodwill of 800 volunteers.

Learn more about Tucson Festival of Books on AALBC.com. (100)
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Black Writers On Tour
Carson Community Center, Los Angeles, California

Hosted by: Dr. Rosie
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Black Writers On Tour
Email: drrosie@aol.com

Description:

Purpose: To promote literacy awareness, to give exposure to African-American authors, writers, and to motivate, and develop aspiring new writers and authors. To showcase Black Businesses, provide exposure and to increase their sales.

Learn more about Black Writers On Tour on AALBC.com. (9)
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Dayton Book Expo
David H. Ponitz Conference Center Sinclair, Community College Great Hall, Dayton, Ohio

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Dayton Book Expo
Phone: 888-802-1802

Description:

Hundreds of book lovers will convene at the Dayton Book Expo. The all-day event includes panel discussions for aspiring authors, activities for children in the Kidz Zone and book signings! The event is free and open to the public.

Learn more about Dayton Book Expo on AALBC.com. (10)
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The Sistahs On Lit Book Festival
The Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza, Sliver Spring, Maryland

Hosted by:

Sistahs On Lit

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Sistahs On Lit Book Festival
Email: papaya@sistahsonlit.com

Description:

Sistahs On Lit was founded in 2012 as a promoting business for Author’s books. After meeting several authors, and making sure the readers knew about their work, Papaya began to enjoy her new craft. In 2013 Papaya met Cherita King, who is an avid reader along with her husband Charles, who has worked with various vendors and entrepreneurs, and together they hosted a Bottles & Books event with several national best selling authors, which was a success!! Now they have taken on new heights and now hosting their 3rd annual event into a festival in the newly developed Downtown Silver Spring area.

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Alabama Book Festival
Old Alabama Town, in Downtown Montgomery, Montgomery, Alabama

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Alabama Book Festival
Phone: 888-240-1850
Email: alabamabookfestival@gmail.com

Description:

With over lots of authors, vendors and exhibitors, this free public event is the state’s premier literary event. Thousands of people from around the state and the Southeast gather at the festival each year to meet their favorite authors and scholars. A fun activity area for children makes this a day of fun for the entire family!

Learn more about Alabama Book Festival on AALBC.com. (55)
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Arkansas Literary Festival
Central Arkansas Library System’s Main Library campus and other venues , Little Rock, Arkansas

Hosted by: Central Arkansas Library System
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Arkansas Literary Festival
Phone: 918-3095
Email: litfest@cals.org

Description:

The Arkansas Literary Festival is a project of the Central Arkansas Library System. The Festival's mission is to encourage the development of a more literate populace.

A group of dedicated volunteers assists Festival Coordinator Brad Mooy with planning the Festival. Committee chairs include Kevin Brockmeier, Talent Committee; Susan Santa Cruz, Festival Guides; and Amy Bradley-Hole, Moderators.

Learn more about Arkansas Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (58)
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Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
University of Southern California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Los Angeles Times Festival of Books
Phone: 424-652-1948
Email: eventinfo@latimes.com

Description:

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books began in 1996 with a simple goal: to bring together the people who create books with the people who love to read them. The festival was an immediate success and has evolved to include live bands, poetry readings, chef demos, cultural entertainment and artists creating their work on-site. There’s also a photography exhibit, film screenings followed by Q&A’s and discussion panels on some of today’s hottest topics.

Learn more about Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on AALBC.com. (60)
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Southern Kentucky Bookfest
Bowling Green, Kentucky, 

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Southern Kentucky Bookfest
Email: sokybookfest@wku.edu

Description:

The Southern Kentucky Book Fest is one of the state’s largest literary events. Held in Bowling Green, Kentucky each April, Book Fest draws thousands of readers of all ages who welcome the occasion to meet their favorite authors and purchase signed copies of their books.

The Southern Kentucky Book Fest partnership consists of Barnes & Noble Booksellers, Warren County Public Library, and WKU Libraries. These entities collaborate throughout the year on a variety of literary events designed to fulfill the mission of the partnership: to encourage reading and the love of books, and to be a positive force in promoting literacy in our region and state.

Learn more about Southern Kentucky Bookfest on AALBC.com. (73)
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Bethesda Literary Festival
Throughout Downtown Bethesda, Bethesda, Maryland

Hosted by: Bethesda Urban Partnership
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Bethesda Literary Festival
Email: info@bethesda.org

Description:

The Bethesda Literary Festival hosts an array of local and national authors, journalists and poets, as well as writing contests and poetry contests.

In a weekend that will include more than 20 entertaining events, the Bethesda Literary Festival presents fascinating literary personalities who will read their work, talk about their craft and take part in discussions with other writers and audience members. All of the events are free and are held throughout downtown Bethesda.

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Newburyport Literary Festival
Newburyport, Massachusetts, 

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Newburyport Literary Festival
Email: events@newburyportliteraryfestival.org

Description:

Newburyport is located at the mouth of the Merrimack River, in the far northeast corner of Massachusetts. It is 35 miles north of Boston and 18 miles south of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

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Dallas Book Festival
Dallas Public Library, Dallas, Texas

Hosted by: Dallas Public Library
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Dallas Book Festival
Phone: 214-670-7809
Email: ronnie.jessie@dallascityhall.com

Description:

Learn more about Dallas Book Festival on AALBC.com. (107)
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Ohioana Book Festival
Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square, Columbus, Ohio

Hosted by: The Ohioana Library Association
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Ohioana Book Festival
Phone: 614.466.3831
Email: ohioana@ohioana.org

Description:

Since its inception in 2007, the Ohioana Book Festival has given readers the opportunity to connect with their favorite Ohio writers. Held each spring, the Festival welcomes roughly 100 authors and more than 3,000 visitors every year.

Learn more about Ohioana Book Festival on AALBC.com. (88)
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University Spring Literary Festival
Ohio University, Athens, Ohio

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: University Spring Literary Festival

Description:

Since 1986, The Spring Literary Festival has featured some of the world's finest, most distinguished writers of poetry, fiction and non-fiction. The three-day festival is held in May on the Ohio University main campus in Athens, OH.

The festival is sponsored by the Creative Writing program in the English Department and is generously funded by the College of Arts & Sciences. All readings and lectures are free and open to the public.

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Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair
Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands

Hosted by: Alscess Lewis-Brown
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair
Phone: 340-692-4152
Email: abrown@uvi.edu

Description:

The second annual Virgin Islands Literary Festival and Book Fair was held in April of 2016 with events highlighting and celebrating literature’s role in culture and society. World-renowned author Salman Rushdie will be this year’s keynote speaker. Other highlighted guests include authors Jamaica Kincaid, Elizabeth Nunez and Earl Lovelace. See our Announcements page for updates and a list of featured authors.

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The Bocas Lit Fest
Port of Spain, Trinidad, Trinidad & Tobago, 

Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Bocas Lit Fest
Email: info@bocaslitfest.com

Description:

Boca is the Spanish word for mouth — the organ of speech and song and storytelling. And the Bocas del Dragón — the Dragon’s Mouths — are the narrow straits off Trinidad’s northwest peninsula, which connect the sheltered Gulf of Paria to the open Caribbean Sea. For centuries, the Bocas were the gateways connecting Trinidad to the Caribbean and the Atlantic.

NGC is the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago, our title sponsor. Their generous support makes the festival possible.

The NGC Bocas Lit Fest invites readers from around the world to enter through the Dragon’s Mouths and celebrate with us the rich literary heritage of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider Caribbean.

Learn more about The Bocas Lit Fest on AALBC.com. (102)
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San Antonio Book Festival
Central Library (600 Soledad Street), the neighboring Southwest School of Art, and the Majestic Theatre, San Antonio, Texas

Hosted by: The San Antonio Library Foundation
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: San Antonio Book Festival
Phone: 210.225.4728
Email: information@saplf.org

Description:

The Festival is a day-long event that unites readers and writers alike. Author presentations are held indoors while outdoors the Festival grounds are active with book sales, signings, children’s story time and learning projects, family activities, and a technology area. Food trucks offer a variety of eats; special tents feature live music and recipe demonstrations by cookbook authors. The large Festival Marketplace offers a lively setting for booksellers, publishers, literary-minded nonprofits, and local artists and craftmakers.

Learn more about San Antonio Book Festival on AALBC.com. (152)
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Annapolis Book Festival
The Key School, Annapolis, Maryland

Hosted by: The Key School
Date: April 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Annapolis Book Festival
Phone: 410-263-9231

Description:

2017 marks the 15th of the Annapolis Book Festival, one of the premier community events in the region. Every year more than 3,000 people attended this free community Festival that celebrates the beauty, power, passion, and excitement of the written word. The Annapolis Book Festival brings nationally renowned authors to The Key School in Annapolis, Maryland, to discuss their books and the craft of writing. The Festival also features children’s activities, live music, refreshments, and new and used book sales.

Learn more about Annapolis Book Festival on AALBC.com. (154)
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London Book Fair
Olympia London, London, England

Hosted by: Reed Exhibitions Limited
Dates: Tuesday, April 10, 2018 to Thursday, April 12, 2018

Website: London Book Fair
Email: lbf.helpline@reedexpo.co.uk

Description:

The London Book Fair is the global marketplace for rights negotiation and the sale and distribution of content across print, audio, TV, film and digital channels. Next year, the Fair will take place in April at Olympia, West London, covering all aspects of the publishing industry.

Learn more about London Book Fair on AALBC.com. (163)
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Belize Writers’ Conference
Ak’bol Yoga Retreat, Ambergris Caye, Belize

Dates: Monday, April 23, 2018 to Saturday, April 28, 2018

Website: Belize Writers’ Conference
Email: thebelizewritersconference@gmail.com

Description:

First-ever Belize Writers’ Conference Launching April 2018. Six-day conference offers workshops by New York literary agents.

Learn more about Belize Writers’ Conference on AALBC.com. (170)
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Anguilla Literary Festival
Paradise Cove Resort, West End, Anguilla

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Anguilla Literary Festival

Description:

The Anguilla Lit-Fest was conceptualized as a means of celebrating Anguilla’s literary heritage and is seen as a catalyst for visitor arrivals during the summer shoulder period. Visitors from the USA, Canada and The Caribbean are expected to be on island for the four- day event, which will feature a Welcome Cocktail, Breakfast and Lunch presentations, special sessions with the authors and fun-filled evening soirees. Participants will also be given a full day to create their personal Anguilla Experience or to reconnect with their individual creative muse.

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Annual Literary & Arts Conference
African American Museum in Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Hosted by: Art Sanctuary
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Annual Literary & Arts Conference
Phone: 215.232.4485
Email: info@artsanctuary.org

Description:

Art Sanctuary uses the power of black art to transform individuals, create and build community and foster cultural understanding.

Hosted at the beloved African American Museum in Philadelphia, this year's conference will feature some of the region's most talented authors and artists, as well as a plethora of workshops, panel discussions, screenings and author readings. The day's events will be in conjunction with the AAMP's Family Fun Day, which will provide a youthful track to enrich the teens and little ones!

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PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature
Various Venues, New York, New York

Hosted by: PEN America
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature
Email: festival@pen.org

Description:

The PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature animates New York City for a week each spring with a kaleidoscopic window into international literature and culture, inviting you to share ideas, find inspiration, and create dialogue and debate across cultural and national borders.

Founded by Salman Rushdie in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, PEN World Voices is the only international literary festival in the world with a human rights focus. It attracts the world’s best-known writers and has garnered broad global acclaim as one of the world’s premier literary events. Since its founding 12 years ago, PEN World Voices has presented more than 1,500 writers and artists from 110 countries, speaking 56 languages.

Learn more about PEN World Voices Festival of International Literature on AALBC.com. (21)
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African American Children’s Book Fair
Reginald F. Lewis Museum, Baltimore, Maryland

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: African American Children’s Book Fair
Phone: 443-263-1800
Email: emailus@lewismuseum.org

Description:

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The Bronx Book Fair
Bronx Library Center/New York Public Library, Bronx, New York

Hosted by: The fair is supported with a grant from the Bronx Council through the NY State Council on the Arts Decentralization Program
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Bronx Book Fair
Email: bronxbookfair@gmail.com

Description:

The Bronx Book Fair is dedicated to engaging and growing the community of poets and writers in the Bronx and to connecting those literary artists to readers and booklovers of all ages. Through readings, workshops, and presentations our goal is to engage the community with a variety of literature and programs that will broaden access to Bronx literary artists, increase library usage, and encourage a love of books and reading.

Learn more about The Bronx Book Fair on AALBC.com. (28)
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Books in Bloom Literary Festival
Historic 1886 Crescent Hotel and Spa, Eureka Springs, Arkansas

Hosted by: The Carroll and Madison Public Library Foundation
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Books in Bloom Literary Festival
Email: jean@booksinbloom.org

Description:

Books in Bloom Literary Festival: a Celebration for Writers and Readers was established in 2005 by the Carroll and Madison Public Library Foundation as its signature event to promote the value of books and reading. The Books in Bloom Co-chairs are Jean Elderwind, Jennifer Hudspeth, and Lin Wellford, directors on the Public Library Foundation Board.

The Festival provides an opportunity for the public to meet accomplished authors, and to hear them read from or speak about their work. Aspiring writers learn about various aspects of writing and publishing, and avid readers are introduced to authors working in a wide variety of genres.

Learn more about Books in Bloom Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (59)
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Yallwest Santa Monica Book Festival
Santa Monica High School, Santa Monica, California

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Yallwest Santa Monica Book Festival
Email: shane@yallwest.com

Description:

Over 113 authors including New York Times Bestsellers along with local and acclaimed young adult and middle grade writers, plus notable Hollywood directors and creators.

2 days of panels, book signings, food trucks, bad jokes, rock 'n' roll, killer photo ops & general geeky debauchery

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Gaithersburg Book Festival
City Hall Grounds, Gaithersburg, Maryland

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Gaithersburg Book Festival
Phone: 301.258.6350
Email: ccrosby@gaithersburgmd.gov

Description:

The Gaithersburg Book Festival is an annual celebration of great books and great writing that will feature more than 100 authors—including winners of Caldecott, Coretta Scott King, Pura Belpre, National Book Award, Pulitzer and Pushcart Prizes, Peabody Award—and national best-sellers in fiction, non-fiction, mystery, poetry, children’s and young adult literature. Other activities include interactive writing workshops, a Children’s Village, book sales, author signings and more.

Admission and shuttles from Shady Grove Metro and Lakeforest Mall are FREE.

Learn more about Gaithersburg Book Festival on AALBC.com. (75)
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Greater St. Louis Book Fair
West County Center, St. Louis, Missouri

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Greater St. Louis Book Fair
Email: info@stlouisbookfair.org

Description:

Greater St. Louis Book Fair is one of the nation’s oldest, largest and most popular charity book sales. For over 60 years, book lovers and collectors have enjoyed bargain prices on a diverse and quality selection of new, gently-used and rare books. Fair proceeds benefit local non-profit education and literacy programs.

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The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Various Locations, Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD)
Email: info@thefoldcanada.org

Description:

The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) celebrates diversity in literature by promoting diverse authors and stories in Brampton, Ontario—one of Canada&rsquos most culturally diverse cities.

Learn more about The Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD) on AALBC.com. (105)
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Queens Book Festival
LIC Landing, 52-10 Center Blvd., Queens, New York

Hosted by: Johanne Civil, Executive Director
Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Queens Book Festival
Phone: 917-745-3507
Email: info@queensbookfestival.nyc

Description:

“The Queens Book Festival, debuted on August 7, 2016, is the largest and most inclusive literary gathering in Queens. It fills the borough with literary talks from over 100 authors as well as hundreds of exhibits within a walkable venue. Over 10,000 diverse people of all ages attend, thanks to the Festival’s robust media plan. The Festival will be entirely free to the public and actively will serve as a diverse platform for the “World’s Borough.”

Learn more about Queens Book Festival on AALBC.com. (122)
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The Spring Book Festival
Wayne Curry Sports & Learning Center, Landover, Maryland

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Email: 2016pgbookfestival@gmail.com

Description:

The Spring Book festival, a celebration of the written word, is held each May. The 2017 Festival is the 3^rd annual event. Our mission is to promote literacy, foster an interest in reading and writing, and to provide a vehicle where local and nationally known authors can interact with readers and the two can get to know and support each other through literary conversations and panel discussions.

This is a one-day event which is free and open to the public.

Learn more about The Spring Book Festival on AALBC.com. (144)
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OE Book Fair
Oxford Exchange, Tampa, Florida

Date: May 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: OE Book Fair
Phone: 813-253-0222
Email: info@oxfordexchange.com

Description:

“It is our mission at Oxford Exchange to continually foster human engagement, spark meaningful dialogue and establish Tampa’s place as a cultural destination. We launched the OE Book Fair in 2015 to provide an open platform for local authors to connect with their community face to face. A broad array of genres and interests are represented, complimented by discussions and workshops throughout the day of the fair. We hope you’ll join us the discovery of local literary talent!”

Learn more about OE Book Fair on AALBC.com. (162)
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RT Booklovers Convention
Peppermill Resort, Hotel, Spa & Casino, Reno, Nevada

Hosted by: RT Book Reviews
Dates: Tuesday, May 15, 2018 to Sunday, May 20, 2018

Website: RT Booklovers Convention
Phone: 281-471-1077
Email: jocarol@rtconvention.com

Description:

More than 3,500 fans came out for the Giant Book Fair to meet 600 authors.

The RT Booklovers Convention is the book-industry event where you can mix business with pleasure. Attend more than 200 workshops as well as numerous parties and reader events that will keep you informed and in touch while having fun. It’s where friends new and old come together to learn about the industry we love and to have fun with authors and fellow book lovers. Fifty percent of conventioneers are first-time RT Convention attendees, and many travel by themselves. However, almost all leave having made new friendships they’ll cherish for years to come.

Learn more about RT Booklovers Convention on AALBC.com. (140)
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Black Pack Party
Clyde Frazier’s Wine & Dine, New York, New York

Hosted by: AALBC.com, Linda Duggins, Mosaic, WideVision Photography, and Written Magazine
Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2018
Time: 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Website: Black Pack Party
Email: troy@aalbc.com

Description:

The Black Pack Party is an annual gathering of publishing industry professionals. It is held during Book Expo America.

Learn more about Black Pack Party on AALBC.com. (15)
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Book Expo America
Javitz Center, New York, New York

Hosted by: Association of American Publishers, Association of Authors Representatives, Inc., and the American Booksellers Association
Dates: Wednesday, May 30, 2018 to Friday, June 1, 2018

Website: Book Expo America
Phone: 1-800-840-5614
Email: inquiry@bookexpoamerica.com

Description:

BookExpo America (BEA) is the leading book and author event for the North American publishing industry. It’s the best place to discover new titles and authors, conduct business and network, and learn the latest trends.

BEA is the largest gathering of booksellers, librarians, retailers, publishers, rights, licensing, and book industry professionals in North America.

Learn more about Book Expo America on AALBC.com. (16)
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Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend
Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel, Chicago, Illinois

Hosted by: Go On Girl! Book Club
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend
Phone: 317-506-6257
Email: events@goongirl.org

Description:

Please join Go On Girl! Book Club and enjoy the opportunity to connect with your favorite authors and literary sisters from across the country.

The Go On Girl! Book Club is a nationally recognized, not-for-profit organization that supports authors of the Black African Diaspora by choosing one book per month for all club members to read. The Club reading list is formed twice a year. Members read a book each month, meet to discuss it, and then write the author of the book to express their opinions about the work.

Since our founding in 1991, more than 30 chapters have been organized across the country.

Learn more about Go On Girl! Book Club Author Awards Weekend on AALBC.com. (19)
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Austin African American Book Festival
Carver Museum and Library, Austin, Texas

Hosted by: Rosalind Oliphant
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Austin African American Book Festival
Email: info@aabookfest.com

Description:

Austin’s African American Book Festival celebrate over a decade of promoting literature by and about African Americans at the Carver Museum and Library.

Learn more about Austin African American Book Festival on AALBC.com. (24)
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Calabash International Literary Festival
Venue TBD, Treasure Beach, Jamaica, W.I.

Hosted by: The Calabash International Literary Festival Trust
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Calabash International Literary Festival
Phone: 876-965-3000
Email: calabashfestival@hotmail.com

Description:

The Calabash International Literary Festival, held on a biennial basis on even years, was founded in 2001 by three Jamaicans the novelist Colin Channer, the poet Kwame Dawes and the producer Justine Henzell. Their aim was simple—to create a world-class literary festival with roots in Jamaica and branches reaching out into the wider world. The Calabash International Literary Festival was founded in 2001 by three Jamaicans the novelist Colin Channer, the poet Kwame Dawes and the producer Justine Henzell. Their aim was simple—to create a world-class literary festival with roots in Jamaica and branches reaching out into the wider world.

A three-day festival of readings and music with other forms of storytelling folded in the mix, Calabash is earthy, inspirational, daring and diverse. After 10 successive years Calabash is now staged on a biennial basis on even years. All festival events are free and open to the public. Passion is the only price of entry. But voluntary contributions are welcomed.

The festival is produced by the Calabash International Literary Festival Trust (the Trust), which also produces publishing seminars and writing workshops. The Trust is affiliated with the Friends of the Calabash International Literary Festival, a registered 501(c)(3) corporation in the United States.

Learn more about Calabash International Literary Festival on AALBC.com. (33)
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Printers Row Lit Fest
Historic Printers Row, Chicago, Illinois

Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Printers Row Lit Fest
Phone: 312-836-7000

Description:

The Printers Row Lit Fest was founded in 1985 by the Near South Planning Board to attract visitors to the Printers Row neighborhood (once the city's bookmaking hub). By 2002, it had grown to five city blocks (on Dearborn, from Congress to Polk), attracting more than 200 booksellers from across the country displaying new, used and antiquarian books and featuring more than 200 authors participating in panels, discussions and a variety of other programs.

Learn more about Printers Row Lit Fest on AALBC.com. (69)
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Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest
Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration Plaza, 1368 Fulton Street, Brooklyn, New York

Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest

Description:

WORD! - A Caribbean Lit Fest is a celebration of Caribbean culture, thought, letters and a good story! The program for readers of all ages highlights the range and diversity of work emanating from the Caribbean and its Diaspora in all the official languages of the region (Dutch, English, French; Spanish) and related native languages or creoles.

Learn more about Word! A Caribbean Lit Fest on AALBC.com. (167)
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Ann Arbor Book Festival
Ann Arbor, Michigan, 

Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Ann Arbor Book Festival
Email: aabookfestival@umich.edu

Description:

Formed in 2003, the Ann Arbor Book Festival’s mission is to promote reading, heighten awareness of literacy challenges, and showcase the rich culture of the written word in Michigan and beyond. Each year a diverse group of community leaders committed to literature, language, and the arts in Michigan plans the Festival. While the festival is located in Ann Arbor, it is regional in its scope and interest.

Learn more about Ann Arbor Book Festival on AALBC.com. (78)
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Bay Area Book Festival
In Downtown Berkeley, Berkeley, California

Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Bay Area Book Festival
Email: info@baybookfest.org

Description:

The San Francisco Bay Area celebrates books, reading, and community in downtown Berkeley.

Learn more about Bay Area Book Festival on AALBC.com. (130)
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Blk Grrrl Book Fair
United Way Building, Montclair, New Jersey

Hosted by: Teka-Lark Lo
Date: June 2018 – Dates to be Announced

Website: Blk Grrrl Book Fair
Phone: 213-842-0474
Email: blkgrrrlshow@gmail.com

Description:

In the past two [2015-16] years over 2,000 members of a diverse public have came to experience the unique, eclectic, feminist and funky experience of the BGBF in Los Angeles and now we’re coming to New Jersey. #BLKGRRRL

Learn more about Blk Grrrl Book Fair on AALBC.com. (148)
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AAMBC Literary Awards
Various Locations, Atlanta, Georgia

Hosted by: African Americans on the Move Book Club (AAMBC)
Dates: Thursday, June 8, 2017 to Saturday, June 10, 2017

Website: AAMBC Literary Awards
Email: aambcvoting@gmail.com

Description:

The annual AAMBC Literary Awards was launched in 2009 in San Antonio, Texas by the founder. Smaller ceremonies were then hosted in the years following in Chicago as well as in Baltimore in adjacent to various literary events.

AAMBC which stands for African Americans on the Move Book Club was created in 2008. AAMBC caters to the unknown writer. AAMBC has worked with well over six hundred writers’ new, seasoned, and considered celebrity status. From first time writers to nationally known they have consistently set the tone to support and promote black writers.

AALBC.com’s Founder, Troy Johnson, was named Literary Activist of the Year for 2017.

Learn more about AAMBC Literary Awards on AALBC.com. (31)
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Sacramento Black Book Fair
The Historic Center of Oak Park, Sacramento, California

Hosted by: Blue Nile Press
Dates: Friday, June 1, 2018 to Saturday, June 2, 2018

Website: Sacramento Black Book Fair
Phone: 916.484.3749
Email: faye@bluenilepress.com

Description:

This historic two-day book fair and celebration will include a panel discussion among our featured authors, book signings, talks by each of the featured writers, cultural & food vendors, book discussions with each writer listed in the program, children’s activities, poetry readings, art displays, and much more

Learn more about Sacramento Black Book Fair on AALBC.com. (20)
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BookCon
Javitz Center, New York, New York

Hosted by: ReedPOP Events
Dates: Saturday, June 2, 2018 to Sunday, June 3, 2018

Website: BookCon
Phone: 800.777.8774
Email: inquiry@TheBookCon.com

Description:

BookCon is the event where storytelling and pop culture collide. Consumers and brands will experience the origin of the story in all its forms by interacting with the authors, publishers, celebrities and creators of content that influence everything we read, hear and see. BookCon is an immersive experience that features interactive, forward thinking content including Q&As with the hottest talent, autographing sessions, storytelling podcasts, special screenings, literary quiz shows and so much more. BookCon is the ultimate celebration of books, where your favorite stories come to life.

Learn more about BookCon on AALBC.com. (108)
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National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium
Medgar Evers College, Brooklyn, New York

Hosted by: The Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, CUNY
Date: March 2019 – Dates to be Announced

Website: National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium
Phone: 718-804-8883
Email: writers@mec.cuny.edu

Description:

“Our Miss Brooks: A Centennial Celebration”

The Center for Black Literature at Medgar Evers College, CUNY, will pay tribute to the legacy of Gwendolyn Brooks. The “Our Miss Brooks: A Centennial Celebration” program will include reflections on Brooks&rtsquo; life, a discussion of the impact and significance of her literary works, and dramatic presentations from and inspired by her passionate and vigorous works. Dr. Haki R. Madhubuti, Cheryl Clarke, Angela Jackson, Quraysh Ali Lansana, Marilyn Nelson, and Nicole Sealey are among the participants featured on the program.

General Donation: $10 in advance; ($5 for students with ID, faculty, and seniors); and price goes up on-site.

Learn more about National Black Writers Conference Biennial Symposium on AALBC.com. (155)
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Check out our coverage of past events.