book tour events

12 Highly Anticipated Book Festivals and Conventions in 2022

Lyndsie Manusos

Lyndsie Manusos’s fiction has appeared in PANK, SmokeLong Quarterly, and other publications. She holds an MFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and has worked in web production and content management. When she’s not nesting among her books and rough drafts, she’s chasing the baby while the dog watches in confused amusement. She lives with her family in a suburb of Indianapolis.

View All posts by Lyndsie Manusos

Book festivals are the ultimate book lover’s experience. I used to work in digital products for an encyclopedia post–graduate school. With that experience came the great fortune of being able to attend a couple book festivals and conventions, namely the ALA conference and Book Expo. It was an amazing experience to attend events where everyone has a love and respect for books in all their brilliant forms. Much has happened since then — having kids and, of course, the pandemic — and it’s became much harder to attend book festivals.

Due to the pandemic and various calls for more accessibility, more festivals are now offering virtual options. Some festivals either cancelled or went fully virtual in 2020 and 2021, and going into 2022, many will continue to offer virtual options or year-around virtual events. For a parent like myself, this is great news, and I am excited to add a few festivals and conferences to my wishlist.

If you’re planning to attend one or many book festivals in 2022, below is a list for your consideration. Many of them have free newsletters, which I highly recommend signing up for to keep track of the latest news, especially early bird registrations. Add them to your itinerary, and be on the lookout for ticket sales or signups as they appear!

Big Book Festivals in 2022

By “big” I mean large in size, attendance, and notability. These are book festivals and conferences that many authors and book professionals attend and in which many readers dream of attending (me, for example). Most are named after the city in which they’re held. If the below festivals are not near where you live, I recommend checking this list on Book Reporter . Usually, there’s a book festival in almost every major city in the United States, so this is by no means an exhaustive list.

Savannah Book Festival

When: February 17–20, 2022

Created in 2008, the Savannah Book Festival has aimed to host national, regional, and local authors. It is an annual free festival that is open to the public, offering dozens of author events. Due to the pandemic, SBF had to cancel its 2021 in-person events and pivoted to offering virtual events throughout the year. The neat thing is if you missed any of the virtual events, you can register to access the recordings .

In 2022, SBF plans to return as an in-person festival while still offering virtual events. The 2022 headliner is David Baldacci with keynote speaker William Kent Krueger.

The Library of Congress National Book Festival in Washington, D.C.

When: September 3–4, 2022

The National Book Festival was created by Laura Bush and Librarian of Congress James H. Billington. Its first festival was in September 2001 and has since been a prominent literary event ever since. Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama both served as honorary co-chairs from 2009 to the present. The festival also includes year-around events.

Brooklyn Book Festival

When: Fall 2022, dates TBA (to be announced)

The Brooklyn Book Festival is New York’s largest free book festival and one of the largest book festivals in the United States. It usually consists of eight days worth of literary events — including a Festival Day and Children’s Day — with hundreds of authors and publishers (both major and independent) attending. It began in 2006, arising from the need to provide a free literary event for the community, and has been going strong ever since. The 2021 festival held events and conversations with major authors such as Alison Bechdel, Hanif Abdurraqib, and Sarah MacLean.

This is one of my bucket list book festivals with its diversity and wide offerings of events and publishers.

Portland Book Festival

When: November 2022, exact dates TBA

I attended the Portland Book Festival a few years ago, and it was a wonderful experience to see prominent authors, such as Karen Russell, from the northwest and west coast and to learn more about literary magazines and small presses based there. While a city event, the Portland Book Festival has a smaller feel to it, which makes it comfortable to those who might be overwhelmed by the vastness of other major city festivals. The 2021 festival, taking place this November, offered virtual passes for events and included guest authors such as Brandon Taylor, Rivka Galchen, and Lauren Groff.

The umbrella in its logo is true to form, as it is held during a rainy, cool November. Bring your raincoats!

Subject- and Genre-Specific Book Festivals in 2022

The below book festivals have a specific message, genre, and/or mission in mind. Some are consistently held in the same location, while others move around year-to-year.

Saints and Sinners Literary Festival

When: March 25–27, 2022

Held in New Orleans, the Saints and Sinners Literary Festival was created in 2003 as a way to communicate information about HIV/AIDS while also acting as a meeting point for the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate the literary arts. It’s held over three days in the New Orleans French Quarter, and attracts major authors such as National Book Award Finalist Dorothy Allison. The festival also publishes an annual anthology (see image on the left). Tickets are now available for the 2022 festival.

Hudson Children’s Book Festival

When: May 7, 2022

The Hudson Children’s Book Festival cancelled their 2021 events for safety reasons due to the pandemic, but they are hoping to start again in May 2022.

The festival was created in 2009 to promote literacy. It is held in Hudson, New York, each year in partnership with the surrounding community and schools. Families are encouraged to attend, meet creators, and foster a love of children’s books. Authors attending past festivals include Nikki Grimes, Padma Venkatraman, Joyce Wan, and many others.

When: July 7–10, 2022

Fans of mystery, suspense, and thriller fiction rejoice! There is a book festival just for you. Sleuthfest 2022 will be held in south Florida and registration opens in February 2022, so mark your calendars. This is as much an event for writers as fans of the genre, offering craft panels, workshops, and even forensic classes. The full schedule has yet to be posted, but the guest of honor will be Jeffrey Deaver.

When: Moved to July 13–16, 2023

I’m cheating a little bit adding this one, since it was announced that Readercon 32 will be moved to 2023 . Readercon is a renowned convention for “imaginative fiction” or speculative fiction. It also hosts the annual Shirley Jackson Awards . Readercon 31 was held virtually, and the guests of honor were authors Jeffrey Ford and Ursula Vernon. The status and guests of honor for Readercon 32 are yet to be announced, as the programming is still being decided. Readers and writers alike should keep a look out as more information is posted.

2022 Book Festivals for Writers and Book Professionals

Arguably, any and all book festivals are useful to writers and book professionals, but the below events are catered more specifically toward them. ALA targets librarians and book professionals. AWP has often been considered the big writer’s conference of year. However, smaller conferences are popping up and growing in popularity, one of which I’ve included below.

AWP Conference & Bookfair

When: March 23–26, 2022

The Association of Writers and Writing Programs Conference & Bookfair is a massive event and often considered the go-to conference for writers. Hundreds of exhibitors, presses, lit mags, and authors attend. Like many other conferences, AWP was conducted virtually in 2021. It will also offer a virtual component in 2022, though the overall conference plans to be in person again. In 2022, the conference will be held in Philadelphia, and the location changes year-to-year. The keynote speaker for 2022 is poet Toi Derricotte, and more presenters will be announced.

Early bird registration has already opened for the 2022 event, with prices ranging from $100 virtual attendance to $310 for non-members purchasing tickets on site on the day of the conference. Keep in mind that many hotels surrounding the conference location book up quickly. If you are aiming to attend, start planning ASAP.

ALA Annual Conference & Exhibition

When: June 23–28, 2022

The American Library Association’s annual conference will be held in Washington, D.C., in 2022, though it will also have a Midwinter Meeting in January 2022. The Midwinter Meeting is a smaller version of the annual conference, and will be held in San Antonio. For this listing, I’ll focus on the annual conference:

The annual conference hosts more than 100 authors and speakers, with 900+ exhibitors. The ALA conference is for the thousands of leaders in library and information industry, and is usually only accessible to ALA members and exhibitors. I was able to attend in Chicago some years ago because the encyclopedia I worked for was exhibiting.

Conversations and Connections

When: 2022, dates TBA

Conversations and Connections was held virtually in October 2021, but hopes to be in person for 2022. It is a one-day writer’s conference that brings together editors, publishers, and writers to form a supportive atmosphere for networking and discussion. Barrelhouse magazine runs the conference, and it is important to note that ALL proceeds for the event goes back to the small presses and literary magazines participating. The $70 registration fee includes the “full day conference, including the keynote by featured authors keynote discussion, and 3 craft workshop/panel sessions, plus two books: your choice of choice of 2 out of our 6 featured small press books.” If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly conference catered to writers, this is the festival for you.

Frankfurt Book Fair/ Frankfurter Buchmesse

When: Exact 2022 dates TBA, usually mid-October

Since its inception in 1949, the Frankfurt Book Fair in Germany has been central to the world of publishing. It is very likely the world’s largest trade fair for books. In 2020, the fair was also offered virtually, with more than 4,000 digital exhibitors from more than 100 countries. The event is as important to book professionals as it is to authors and book aficionados.

For those living outside of Europe, this would include hefty travel costs, but if you able, it’s definitely a bucket list book festival.

Planning and Preparing for Your Book Festival Experience

Book Riot has written a few articles regarding book festivals, including preparing yourself for the overwhelming nature of these large events. Laura Marie’s article What I Learned At My First Independent Book Festival is a great starting point for any first-time festival attendee.

As mentioned a few times above, many big festivals are offering virtual options in addition to in-person events in 2022, as well as virtual accessibility for year-around events. The rise of digital-only book festivals is important to note. The subject is covered extremely well in Alice Nuttall’s 2021 Book Riot article .

Whatever your preferences, it is heartwarming to know that more and more book conferences/conventions/festivals are becoming accessible and available for those who seek them. There are independent book festivals and niche festivals in addition to the big ones. These are inspiring events where ideas, imagination, and culture intersect. Whatever your interests and goals, may you find the book festival you’re looking for.

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Organizing a Successful Book Signing Event

Oct 18, 2023 | Blog

Book signings can be a powerful tool for promoting your book, but they don’t just happen by chance. They require careful planning, preparation, and promotion to ensure their success. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of book signings, exploring what they involve, their significance, and how to set up a memorable event for your current or upcoming book.

Understanding Book Signings and Their Importance

Book signings are special events where authors connect with their readers in person, signing copies of their books and engaging in direct conversations. These gatherings give readers a unique opportunity to meet their favorite authors, ask questions, and gain insights into their work. For authors, book signings offer a level of connection that social media or interviews can’t replicate. They can attract both planned attendees and unexpected visitors, expanding your readership. In-person interactions offer a deeper level of intimacy, a tremendous asset for authors. However, if you’re an introvert or shy, don’t worry; book signings should be enjoyable and light. Just be yourself, and remember to prioritize authenticity.

So, how do you go about organizing a book signing event?

Before envisioning yourself behind a table, surrounded by stacks of your books and eager readers, there are essential steps to take:

Prepare Your Pitch: Before reaching out to bookstores or libraries, craft a clear and concise pitch for your book. It should highlight why hosting a book signing with you is beneficial. Demonstrating your professionalism, knowledge, and organization will leave a positive impression on potential venues.

Reach Out to Venues in Advance: Timing is crucial. Avoid last-minute requests; instead, contact potential venues well in advance. Inform them about your upcoming book release and express your interest in scheduling a signing event after publication. If you have advance reader copies (ARCs), provide one to the venue to demonstrate your preparedness and your book’s quality.

Determine Book Supply: Once a date is set, clarify whether the venue will order copies of your book or if you need to supply them. Never assume they’ll have books on hand; it’s better to confirm and order from your publisher in advance if necessary.

Create Book Merchandise: People love freebies, so consider creating book merchandise like bookmarks, pins, or Post-its to enhance your marketing efforts. While specific genres may require more specialized items, don’t go overboard. These are extras that, if within your budget, can add a fun touch to your event.

Promote Your Event: Create buzz around your book signing. Use your social media platforms and encourage the hosting venue to do the same. Reach out to local media outlets, send press releases, and enlist the support of friends and family to spread the word. Consider setting up a Facebook event and listing it on your website to generate interest.

What to Bring to Your Book Signing

When the day finally arrives, make sure you’re well-prepared:

Table Setup: Decide how you want your table to look. Check with the venue if they provide a tablecloth or promotional sign; if not, bring these items yourself. Consider having a sign explaining payment options (especially if the venue handles book sales) to streamline transactions.

Display Items: Arrange your books attractively on the table, along with business cards, book swag, and a newsletter sign-up sheet to collect reader information. Remember to bring high-quality pens and cash for change if cash payments are an option.

Your Attitude: Above all, bring your best smile and enthusiasm. Book signings should be enjoyable and an opportunity to connect with your audience. Treat it as a chance to market yourself and your book in a warm and approachable manner. For many authors, book signings represent a significant milestone in their journey, so celebrate your achievement, practice your author signature, and start signing!

Organizing a successful book signing event is not just about selling books; it’s about building connections with your readers and sharing your passion for your work. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a memorable event that leaves a lasting impression on both you and your audience. Remember, book signings celebrate your achievement as an author, so embrace the opportunity to engage with your readers, showcase your professionalism, and, most importantly, be yourself. With careful planning, preparation, and a positive attitude, your book signing can be a rewarding and enriching experience that contributes to your author journey. So, set the stage, and let your signature be the final touch on an unforgettable event.

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Just because you’re not publishing your book with a major, traditional publisher who will send you on book tour doesn’t mean you can’t host author events. Book readings, book signings, and discussions can help attract readers who may not have heard about you—don’t miss out on them because you self-published.

Why Book Signings and Author Events are Important

Book signings and author events are as important for established authors as they are for new ones. Think of it like a band going on tour: you want to be able to connect with your readers and meet them face-to-face while promoting the book you just published.

Big-time authors, like Stephen King or Roxane Gay, will do huge multi-city tours that last weeks at a time, but self-publishers may not. You don’t need a national tour to promote your book and make sales. Even if you do a couple of  book signings or author events (in your own city), this will provide a great space to attract new readers and connect with those who are supporting your work.

Book signings and other meet-and-greet events make fans feel a deeper and more personal connection to the author. Plus, the whole point of doing author events is to sell your book to those in attendance! If you do a reading from the book and sign books afterward, it goes without saying that your audience will purchase copies of their own for you to sign.

How to Set Up a Book Signing or Author Event

The first step in how to host a book signing event is deciding where you want your book signing. Independent bookstores are the perfect spot to host a book signing because they like to support local writers. A lot independent bookstores will have an event coordinator that will be your point of contact.

If you don’t have any independent stores near you, you’ll have to get a little creative. If you’ve self-published a Christian or Religious book, host your event at a local church or house of worship. If you’ve just self-published a Cookbook , host an event at a restaurant. If you’ve self-published a collection of Poetry , a coffee house is a perfect setting for your book signing. Other locations such as community centers are a great option.

Once you have a location in mind, you’ll need to reach out to said location to speak with whoever is in charge of events. What is required of you will vary place to place. You’ll likely have to put together materials in order to pitch your book to the location; maybe this includes marketing materials or press about the book. Your pitch should answer the question, “Why should they host your event?” When pitching to for-profit locations (such as a bookstore, restaurant, or coffee house) think about how this will benefit their business. When pitching to a not-for-profit (like a community center or religious organization), emphasize the community and cultural benefits of the event. Include a copy of your book so they know exactly what they’re going to be promoting.

Preparing for Book Signings

Leading up to the event, you’ll want to promote on social media , that way your readers/friends/family know it’s happening. You can do this for free, by posting as you normally would on your official author social media channels, or you can purchase social media ads to specifically attract readers in your area that fit your target audience.

Most book signings are preceded by a reading. When figuring how how to set up a book signing , you should also consider which part(s) of your book you’ll be reading. What you choose to read is crucial. If you’re reading alongside other authors, keep it short; ten to fifteen minutes should do. If the event is solely yours, you can pick a longer section, but be sure it doesn’t go too long. You want people’s interest to be piqued by your reading, not extinguished. Pick a section that’s understandable for readers who haven’t read the book yet; it should be captivating yet not give too much away. Whet their appetite, basically.

During the signing, depending on how many readers are in attendance, you may want to consider having a friend or assistant asking those in line for their name, putting it on a sticky note, and placing that sticky note on the book you’ll be signing. This speeds the process along considerably.

If it’s a more intimate gathering, with fewer in attendance, feel free to take more time with each reader and write a special, individualized note. This experience will influence their opinion of you and your book.

Selling Your Books in Stores

You’ve done the author event. Now it’s time to sell your books.

Selling copies of your book in a bookstore – where readers can pick them up, feel them, flip through the pages – is something every author dreams of. So much of readers’ buying habits lead them to online distributors, but, still, nothing beats a brick and mortar bookstore where readers can feel and smell the pages.

A lot of self-publishers may think they’re unable to sell their book in stores, but this isn’t true! As with selling online , there are hoops you’ll have to jump through, but if you’re dedicated to your book, you’ll be able to sell it to stores, no problem.

Here’s how to sell your self-published book in bookstores.

• Figure out how the store buys their books. Do they use a wholesaler? A distributor? Do they buy on consignment?
• Understand your particular market. This means doing research into your genre. What are the popular titles? How much do these books typically sell for? What do they readers of this genre want?
• Be prepared to market your book extensively. Bookstores aren’t going to buy and shelve a book unless they know it’s going to make them money. Prove that your book will sell.
• Contact the store’s book buyer with your official request and marketing materials.

Most larger stores (like Barnes and Noble) get their books from a wholesaler . Wholesalers are companies that act as a middleman ; they purchase books at a discount in bulk in order to sell them to retailers (like Barnes and Noble and independent bookstores). Wholesalers like to buy books that they know will sell lots of copies, however some do purchase books from small presses, indie authors, and self-published authors.

Retailers buy their books from a wholesaler’s catalog. Wholesalers (such as Powell’s ) will publish catalogs that showcase their title list monthly. These catalogs will include subject matter, book title, ISBN , author, publisher, and price. Bookstores use these catalogs to order the books they then sell at a markup price. This means that wholesalers don’t push your book onto retailers. You’ll still have to market it extensively to a store’s book buyer.

Smaller stores may sometimes buy on consignment. This may be an easier options for self-publishers and the bookstore alike. Under consignment deals, the bookstore does not pay the author for the books until they sell. This type of agreement is really beneficial, because the bookstore doesn’t risk anything by putting the books on their shelves, and when they sell, both the author and the store benefit: the store makes money, and the author sells the book they worked hard to write and publish.

A book signing is a wonderful way to both market and sell your book. Potential readers get to hear a snippet of the book first, and you get the chance to attract new readers. It’s every author’s dream to see their book in the hands of a reader. When you print with DiggyPOD, this dream can be a reality.

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Virtual Book Tours: 14 Must-See Strategies from Authors

November 17, 2020 by Leila Hirschfeld

Book tours are a traditional promotional tactic for authors when launching a new book. With the COVID-19 crisis making in-person promotional events unsafe, authors have been finding creative ways to circumvent the pandemic’s challenges and interact with fans. One tactic helping them connect with readers is virtual book tours!

To help you plan and publicize your own virtual book tour events, we’ve compiled a list of strategies we’ve seen authors use when launching their virtual tours. While missing out on IRL tours might be a bummer, there are many benefits of online events beyond just saving on travel expenses. Going virtual provides greater accessibility, allowing more people to tune in than ever before and leading to great opportunities for fan engagement.

We hope the following examples provide inspiration for your book marketing and reader outreach approach when launching a new book, both during the pandemic and beyond.

1. Add the event schedule to your author website

Many authors add their complete virtual tour schedules to their author websites. Making the full schedule easy to find helps them keep their tours organized and helps readers see which events are the best fit for them — both in terms of timing and interest in topic or co-speaker.

Yamile Saied Méndez added her virtual tour schedule to the Events page of her website. She has a drop-down filter for event type so someday readers can distinguish between in-person and virtual events.

On her website’s Events page , C Pam Zhang divided her book tour schedule by past and upcoming virtual appearances.

2. Post the virtual book tour schedule on social media

Announcing virtual tour stops on social media has been another popular tactic for authors promoting their book events. Various social media platforms enable writers to share their most important news directly with fans.

Jodi Picoult shared her schedule on Twitter, tagging all the authors making appearances at her events. Tagging those you collaborate with helps their names stand out to your audience and makes it easier for them to reshare your news!

Meg Cabot shared her virtual book tour schedule on Facebook, linking fans to register on her website. Meg’s tour included a variety of events, including a watch party for a movie based on one of her previous books!

3. Answer fans’ logistical questions

People are still getting used to the new reality of virtual events, so it can be extra helpful to answer questions fans might have about the logistics of a book tour.

V.E. Schwab answered many questions about her virtual tour in her announcement post, including those about the format, international tour dates, and more.

At in-person events, readers had the option to buy books on-site. When one reader commented on Alyssa Rosenheck ’s virtual book tour announcement with a question about purchasing her new book, the author promptly responded with a helpful answer.

4. Host a virtual book club

Some authors looking for a conversational atmosphere have hosted a book club series or joined book club sessions. These events provide them the chance to interact closely with fans and hear their thoughts on their book.

Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi hosted a digital club to discuss their book on antiracism. In this series, Reynolds and Kendi engaged with a different chapter each week. These authors used Eventbrite to organize their book club.

Ruta Sepetys took part in a series of virtual book club gatherings to discuss her new novel. When people purchased the book through a participating independent bookstore, they got an exclusive discussion guide with behind-the-scenes insights, photographs, and recipes inspired by the book as well as the opportunity to talk directly with Ruta.

5. Share recaps from early tour stops to build buzz for upcoming ones

While authors might not be able to pose for photos with fans anymore, there’s still plenty they can share from virtual events. Many authors have posted fun photos and anecdotes from past appearances, which could get readers excited for upcoming tour stops.

Middle grade and YA author Aisha Saeed thanked readers on Instagram for tuning in to her virtual book tour event and let her audience know where they could buy a signed, personalized copy.

Health care reformer Rosemarie Day shared a screenshot of her first virtual book tour event. She highlighted the success of the session, declaring that it indicated “distance socializing” could work well!

6. Host a virtual party

Several authors have added festive elements to their virtual book tours to make their events more interactive and celebratory. While one can’t host in-person parties right now, digital parties let authors and their readers engage in fun conversations.

Christina Baker Kline hosted an after-party following her main book tour conversation. The event page advertised the party as an intimate chance to ask Christina “everything you always wanted to know but didn’t ask during the event.”

Former prosecutor and legal thriller writer Marcia Clark hosted a virtual happy hour to celebrate her new release. She encouraged fans to bring a drink to the discussion.

She posted a lively event photo on Instagram along with a link to the recorded event so fans could join in on the party even if they missed it the first time around.

7. Ask fellow authors to help launch your book

Many authors recruit help from other writers to interview them for their book launch events, creating an extra draw for people to tune in to virtual tour stops. Additionally, when well-known authors in conversation with newer authors share event details with their own audiences, it can help attract new fans to the newer author’s writing.

One of J. Courtney Sullivan ’s book tour stops was a conversation between her and Lily King , who shared event details on her own Twitter. Accessing Lily’s audience gave additional exposure to Courtney’s new release.

8. Team up with another author to discuss both of your books

Some authors have partnered with a fellow author on virtual book tour events to market both of their books. A major perk is that a fan of one author might leave the event a fan of both authors.

Brit Bennett and Megha Majumdar teamed up for a Zoom conversation on both of their new releases.

9. Partner with bookstores

Virtual book tours provide a fabulous chance to support independent bookstores. Many authors have organized online events with independent bookshops and encouraged their fans to buy their books from them.

Christopher Paolini planned virtual tour stops at numerous independent bookshops in the US and UK. He highlighted the involvement of these businesses in his website tour announcement, noting that his fans can see him at their “favorite bookstore” while staying safe at home.

10. Add virtual book festivals to the tour

Virtual book festivals offer a great chance for authors to get their names out there, network with fellow authors, and reach new audiences. Now that many book festivals have moved online, they’re more accessible, without prohibitive costs and travel requirements.

Tiffany D. Jackson spoke at the Salem Literary Festival as the first stop of her book tour.

This year, the Unbound Book Festival rebranded as “Housebound Unbound” because of the need to cancel in-person gatherings. Historical fiction author Alex George organized the virtual book festival and discussed his new book at one of the digital events.

11. Host an online book signing

Some authors have created virtual book signing events. Readers can watch as the author adds a personal touch to their books while listening to insights they have to share about their work.

Educational writer Danica McKellar hosted a live signing of her new math guide, during which she autographed books while chatting about STEM and learning.

Singer-songwriter Tori Amos hosted a digital book signing on Facebook Live to celebrate the release of her memoir. She answered questions as she autographed copies of her book.

12. Write out answers to fan questions

Book tour stops don’t all have to involve video! Several virtual tours have involved written-out answers to reader questions as a method for authors to engage with fans and publicize their books.

N.K. Jemisin ’s publisher announced on their website that N. K.’s first digital tour stop would be answering reader questions through Goodreads’s “Ask an Author” feature.

N.K. wrote out thoughtful, personal answers to over 100 questions.

Gene Luen Yang went on an Instagram book tour as a cartoon version of himself. He discussed topics he would have delved into at in-person events and wrote out answers to fan questions, with an amusing cartoon twist.

13. Post book tour videos on YouTube

Some authors have posted one-off book events or a full tour series on YouTube. Some benefits of this approach are that YouTube content stays on your channel so fans can tune in anytime, you can monetize these videos if you have a sizable following, and all tour videos can be in one easily accessible location.

Cookbook author Gaz Oakley gave YouTube viewers a look into his new vegan cookbook.

To help his fans navigate the video, he included timestamps for different topics in the comments section.

Science writer and historian Amy Shira Teitel posted a series of virtual book tour events on her YouTube channel. Each video had a different discussion topic, such as this one covering details that didn’t make it into her book.

14. Thank fans for participating

Thanking those who came to your virtual book tour stops is a fantastic way to show appreciation to fans. Many authors have expressed gratitude at different points in their virtual book tours.

The band Tenacious D went on a virtual book tour for their new graphic novel. At the conclusion of their tour, they posted a fun compilation of digital meet-and-greet moments to their YouTube channel.

Sarah Henning warmly responded to numerous fan comments, expressing her happiness at their participation in her virtual events.

What other ways have you seen authors promoting their books virtually? Let us know in the comments below!

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How to Successfully Land and Prepare for Your Book Signing Event: The Ultimate Guide

Just got published? That definitely deserves some big celebrations, and there’s no better way to celebrate than having a book signing event. There’s a lot to prepare for if you’re going to hold a book signing event. For your first book launch event, your local library could be the perfect venue!

In this guide, I’ll teach you how to land your first local library book signing event and give you some tips on preparing for success.

I’m also going to let you in on a little secret. Libraries love supporting their local authors. There’s a good chance that your nearby library is already ready and waiting to become your fan.

Setting Up Your Local Library Book Signing Event

Now that the world is opening back up, live events are becoming a thing again. They’ve always been a fantastic opportunity to bring your fans together while gathering some new ones to celebrate your book.

Organizing a book event can seem daunting at first, but the process is easier than you think.

As always, I’ve got you covered. I’ve broken the process down into six steps. Let’s get right into it.

Step #1: Research Your Local Libraries

First thing’s first, you’ve got to know your library. Identify what they like to have for programs and study their past themes. Figure out if you and your book can have a good tie-in based on those past programs and themes.

Most libraries have an event and activity calendar right on their website. Check that calendar out and see if there’s anything listed that can relate to your book, genre, or expertise.

You may not know this, but many libraries host weekly or monthly book clubs around specific topics. Now, you want to find out if these topics might be a perfect fit for your book.

Libraries also hold events to coincide with holidays, awareness months, or other celebrations.

Some libraries have things like creative writing workshops in November for NaNoWriMo. Some have a panel discussion in January for Martin Luther King Day.

Chances are, your local library always has some other something to celebrate in awareness or special months, so check those out.

Step #2: Come Up with A Book Signing Event Idea and a Plan

You can also choose to organize events like festivals, book launch parties, book clubs, and meet and greets. I mean, there are just so many options.

I’ve offered short library workshops in the past, teaching a small part of my book to the audience. It was free, but it was a great way to build my list, connect with my local community, and get the library to buy some books. When organizing one of these events, keep in mind your goals and resources and the capacity and interest of the local library.

So apart from your typical book signing events, here are some other brilliant ideas that you can try:

Author Readings and Interviews

You probably already know about the tried and true author reading – share a bit of your book, and answer questions from the audience afterward.

You could also host an author interview if you’d rather interact with your audience a bit more. Hosting an interview can work incredibly well if your live event unexpectedly turns virtual or hybrid. You can take questions from both your live audience and your virtual audience who couldn’t attend in person.

You can also ask your audience to send questions in advance so you can prepare accordingly and make sure that you’re covering stuff that they really want to hear.

Participate in a Book Club

You can also participate in a book club which serves as an excellent opportunity to deepen your connection with your readers. You’ll also have a pretty successful book signing event if the readers are excited to meet you!

Of course, everybody who attends has to have read your book, so it’s potentially going to lead to some tremendous in-depth discussion and rapport building.

Afterward, make sure to sign books and encourage readers to sign up for your email newsletter so you can stay in touch.

Conduct a Workshop or Interactive Activity

Now, depending on your book, a workshop or some sort of interactive activity can provide a great hands-on experience for your audience.

If you cover something interactive in your book, like a checklist or a step process, or if you have spots where they can fill in and answer questions or do activities, that could be an excellent opportunity for you to create a little session all around that feature.

You can also use Kahoot! to make interactive quizzes or games for your audience. You can use Canva to design printables or do some worksheets. If you have a workbook, doing a workshop could be an excellent opportunity to sell that workbook.

Collaborate for an Author Panel

If you’re lucky enough to know authors in your genre or in a similar angle to something you do, maybe you can collaborate to create an author panel.

Participating in a panel also has the added benefit of promoting to the other author’s audience and expanding your readership.

You’re also going to have a larger attendance at your event as well.

Throw a Book Party!

Now, if you’re looking to have some fun, you could potentially host a party. But you probably have to host it quietly, of course, because this is still a library. Still, you can host a party for many things.

Your party doesn’t necessarily have to be about your book launch. It could be to celebrate a book award or some sort of event that’s happened in the community.

You can opt for just about anything that would interest the library and excite its membership.

Libraries are always game for local authors winning book awards. In fact, they’d be willing to host the award-winning author a celebration.

Once you’ve decided on your event, it’s time to put together a plan. You don’t have to map out every little detail, but it helps to have a general outline and a summary of the event.

You should also know the costs, the supplies you need, the expected length and itinerary, the number of people you expect to attend, and your marketing plans. We’ll get into more detail on these later.

Step #3: Pitch Your Book Signing Event to Your Local Library

You’ve got to get the library to say yes. So, visit the library’s website and find which librarian to contact.

For nonfiction books, your best bet is probably the adult services or programming librarian. There’s often a youth services librarian that specifically handles children’s and young adult books.

When in doubt, just reach out to the library. You can always reach out to the reference librarian in particular.

To begin with, I’d send an email introducing yourself, sharing a bit about your book, and then putting one or two sentences together on what you’re planning. If the librarian decides it’s a good fit, you can sort out the details after that, probably by phone or walking in and introducing yourself.

Step #4: Prepare and Promote

Did you get the green light? Okay! That means it’s time to get ready, get prepped, and promote.

Spreading the word is vital to your event’s success. Libraries, primarily, will put up a poster. They might also have a newsletter where they can put up your event. But, really, you need to hop onto your social media and start promoting.

Post regular reminders at least a month in advance. If you have an email newsletter list, use it. Reach out and let everyone know about upcoming festivities.

You can even potentially get posters printed and put them up at your local coffee shop, gym, or any place you frequent. Those things could be great because this is a local event celebrating a local author.

See if the library allows food or drinks to let your guests enjoy treats while you treat them to your reading, talk, or workshop.

Send out reminders the day before, and make sure you’ve posted again everywhere on your social media.

Lastly, remember to bring copies of your book to sign and sell. If you’re ordering them, make sure you’ve ordered them at least a month in advance so you’ve got them on the event day.

Step #5: Execute

The day has come! Get there early and set up as needed. Your attendees will need certain materials, like pens or paper; make sure they’re available and that there’s plenty for everyone.

Since your event probably won’t be gigantic, greet everyone as they arrive. And don’t forget to introduce yourself before the event kicks into gear.

Some attendees might know you, but others might not. Remember, you’re not just there to promote your book; this is a perfect opportunity to create connections that have the potential to do more than sell some books.

Ideally, you might want to have a friend at the book table to help you sell books and hand out materials that you might have for this event.

After the event wraps up, let them know that you’re signing books and give attendees the chance to approach you directly with questions or comments.

Step #6: Thank the Local Library

There’s a good chance that the library probably won’t charge you for their event space. And they almost always buy a copy of your book to add to their bookshelves.

Your library deserves all the love, so make sure they get it. Thank the librarian in person right after your event and let them know that you’d be interested in more events in the future.

And, of course, post pictures and a happy note on their social media with your gratitude for their hospitality.

Preparing for Your Local Library Event

Making sure you have people show up to your book event is one thing, but what about what you do to prepare for the actual event itself?

What do you need to have on hand? More importantly, how exactly would you look like a pro for your first and future book signings?

Now that your first local library event is on the horizon, it’s time to walk you through the things you need to put in place to ensure that your event becomes successful and professional-looking.

If you’re still reading and are wondering what you need and where to buy them, stick around. We’ll talk about the finer details.

Consider the Scope of Your Library Book Event

Now, you only need to invest in all of the materials I’ll mention if you’re planning on doing more than one event or if you’re doing a relatively large one.

Suppose you’re just doing a one-off signing event to launch your book, and you don’t feel like you’re going to do another. In that case, it’s probably not worth investing in a bunch of things just because of that single event.

After all, you’re probably lucky to sell 20 books. Investing in a bunch of materials won’t change the number of books you sell. However, It does going to make you look fancy and professional. So, I’m leaving that up to you.

On the other hand, if you’re going to be speaking at events and getting a table at the back of the room or on an event floor, and you think you’re going to do a few more throughout the next year or two, absolutely invest a few hundred dollars in looking like a pro.

By the way, this is a fantastic way to build your author platform and sell books. So, grab a pen; I’ll wait for a second because here’s what you’re going to need.

Don’t Be Without These Essentials

1. two black sharpies.

Firstly, you’ll need to get yourself two black Sharpies for signing those books. Fine point or whatever you prefer. You can use whatever kind of pen you want, but a Sharpie is just official.

2. Your Sign-Up Sheet

Secondly, get a sign-up sheet for your newsletter. Do this old school. Put up a sign and offer your reader magnet. Then, have a sheet of paper with a spot for their name and an email address.

You also want them to know that they’ll get your newsletter when they sign up.

QR codes, in fact, gave me the worst results.

Back to the old school pen, paper, a little sign, and a plastic display stand. You can see an example of everything you need in this picture right here.

That’s all you need, and people will put their name and email address on there to download your freebie and get on your newsletter.

Okay, so back to the list!

3. An 8×11 Sign Promoting Your Reader Magnet

You’ll also need an 8×11 sign to promote your reader magnet. Get a plastic display case where you can put your 8×11 sign, so it’ll stand there looking nice.

4. Pens. Lots of Them.

You’re going to want to have that sign-up sheet have a piece of paper that says: name, email, and what they’re signing up for. You want pens for people to use to sign up. Make sure to bring lots because some people unintentionally take them.

5. Book Display Shelf

Now, you don’t have to have this, but I recommend getting a display shelf or some way to stand the books up so the cover is facing out. Your display shelf can be a cheap magazine stand or some other fancier book stand.

I like the clear plastic ones you see in the picture above because they allow the entire front cover to be visible while still allowing you to stack multiple books, which brings me to the next thing you need.

6. Your Books!

Depending on the event, you should have at least 20 books on hand or at least a QR code that takes them to the universal link to buy the eBook. Ideally, you’d also want to have a QR code for purchasing the audio version.

7. Presenter Kit

It’s also a great idea to have your media kit , a speaker one sheet, or a sales sheet for your book.

Have those on hand because if somebody comes by and wants to know if you give talks, if you’re willing to do a podcast interview, or if you’d like to have your book listed in the local library, having these materials on hand can lead to some pretty incredible opportunities.

It also makes you look that much more professional.

If you don’t have any of those things, well, obviously, you’re not working with Book Launchers because we create all of those for you. We can fix that though – apply to work with us here .

Make sure to always have a business card with your contact information, which has the title of your book and a few other details like your website.

Now, the following few items are what I would call bonus material.

Bonus Item #1: Table Cover

If my next one is white, I will hand out #noboringbooks coasters for swag to get people to put their drinks down on the coaster.

You don’t have to get a branded table cover. But, when you do events at libraries and bookstores, they often give you an ugly fold-up table.

So, having something to cover that up makes it look that much nicer. You can buy these at Michaels or get them from a local craft store or an event store for a pretty low price. You can also order a branded one from Vistaprint or many other places that do banners.

If you do a branded one, make sure it has your website on it.

Bonus Item #2: Vertical Banner

The next thing that is nice to have is a stand-up vertical banner. You don’t need a big banner, as you see in my Book Launchers booth picture. A vertical banner, or even a small table banner, will be enough.

There are many places to get banners, and most are under $100.

You’ll likely need to bring a design to the table, though. So, I would recommend deciding where you’re going to buy from, getting their specs for what you need to upload, and then going to Upwork, Fiverr, or Guru and hiring a graphic designer to create the banner for you.

Absolutely include your book cover in your design. If you’ve won any awards, include those. If you have a great blurb or an endorsement from somebody, put that on there. And, of course, the formats and where people can buy your book.

After putting in all those crucial info, go ahead and place the order from the designer.

Now, make sure you’re doing all this at least 60 days before your event to give yourself lots of time for shipping or fixing any issues that may happen.

I use BoothPop! for all my banner needs. BoothPop! is a little pricier than Vistaprint. But ultimately, Vistaprint might be the best place if you’re watching them because they do a 50% off sale twice a year. So, if you hang on, you can get all your book promotion items on sale.

Now, there are other banner places that other authors recommend, like 48HourPrint. You might find a local print shop location that can help you. Fastsigns also has a lot of locations around the US. I know in Las Vegas that there are a lot of businesses that recommend them.

Bonus Item #3: Swag Giveaways

Finally, you can have swag to give away if you want to. You can have those things like postcards, pens, and bookmarks. You can even give away fancier things like journals, water bottles, or T-shirts.

It’s not necessary, but if you have a business behind your book, it can be good exposure.

Now, speaking of swag, do you want to know how you can win some of our fabulous #noboringbooks swag? Well, it’s really simple. Get on our newsletter to join one of our monthly deep-dive training sessions (or just register for the next one right here ).

All you have to do is go to this link and download a guide on marketing your book, which lands you on our newsletter list.

You can also comment on the day a video is released on our YouTube Channel , and you’ll be entered to win. Super easy.

One final thing I like to bring to my book signings whenever I can is a friend. It’s so great to have someone there to support you, bring you a drink if you’re busy, man your table when you have to pee, and keep you company if it’s quiet.

Now, you might be wondering how to get your book into the local library. This is a great resource for that:

You don’t have to go through this alone, you know. It’s always better to have a plethora of experts at your side guiding you in organizing your events and all throughout your author journey.

Here at Book Launchers, we help entrepreneurs, professionals, and people with powerful stories to write, publish, and sell non-fiction books that grow businesses, boost brands, and make money.

Why not schedule a call with us today?

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How To Hold Book Signing Events at Your Bookstore

Whether you’re a published author, or just starting out on your manuscript, it’s not too soon to think about holding a book signing event. Yet, holding a book signing event isn’t as easy as it may seem. With the support of our Sr. Director of Distribution & Supply Chain , Steve Elizalde , we’ve created this simple guide to help you make this goal a reality.

What Are the Benefits of Book-Signing Events?

Reach more potential readers with book signings, while networking with your local community.

However, hosting a book signing doesn’t equate to more buzz about your book. The success of the event largely depends on how well you market it to your network.

To generate more momentum, you’ll want to create a social media strategy to ensure your fans know about the event. In addition, you will want to inform your business partners and friends. If people seem interested in your book at the event, you may attract new readers to your table to purchase your book.

How To Coordinate a Book Signing

Bookstores have specific criteria you must meet before agreeing to hold a book signing. Consider these five steps to coordinating your book-signing event successfully.

Step One: Plan Ahead

Popular independent bookstores such as Politics and Prose and Tattered Cover typically book events 3-4 months ahead.

That means you need to know your publishing date and what month works best for the book signing.

Step Two: Contact Them Directly

Despite what you may think, bookstores prefer to hear from authors directly when it comes to scheduling events. Don’t ask your marketing or promotion or distribution team to make the call for you. By contacting them directly, you’ll increase your chances of getting the event booked.

Step Three: Create a Promotion Plan

Bookstores expect the author to generate a minimum of 30 attendees or book sales. As you can’t rely on the influx of bookstore visitors to contribute to this number, you need a promotion plan.

The bookstore will inquire about how you intend to promote the event to help them determine their interest and how many books to order for the event.

Step Four: Share ISBN Information

The last thing the bookstore will want to know is how they can order the book. If you publish with Forbes Books or most mainstream book publishers, let them know it is available through normal wholesale channels like Ingram. The ISBN allows them to search for it easily.

Step Five: Follow Up

Once the event is booked, your distribution team will inform the book sales team. This allows them to follow up with the store manager and ensure the books are ordered prior to the event. You’ll want to notify your community prior to the event and come stocked with business cards and, of course, a good pen.

Lissie Kidd

Sr. marketing copywriter.

Lissie Kidd is a Sr. Copywriter with several hundred articles in her portfolio and even more edited and published under her supervision. Lissie holds a MA in Communications from Grand…

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PLEASE NOTE THAT OUR STREET WILL BE BLOCKED OFF FOR THE INMAN PARK FESTIVAL ON SATURDAY, APRIL 27 AND SUNDAY, APRIL 28. NO STREET PARKING WILL AVAILABLE. We recommend using Uber, Lyft or taking MARTA. A Cappella Books is a short walk from the Inman Park MARTA Station and Little 5 Points.  

• Spend $50 or more and get FREE local delivery Monday - Saturday to these  in-town Atlanta neighborhoods: 30303, 30305, 30306, 30307, 30308, 30309, 30310, 30312, 30313, 30315, 30316, 30317, 30324, 30030, 30032, 30329, 30033, 30002. Delivery times vary depending on zip code.
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A Cappella Books

Amanda Montell in conversation with Sarah Edmondson - The Age of Magical Overthinking

From the bestselling author of "Cultish" and host of the podcast "Sounds Like a Cult," a delicious blend of cultural...

Read more about Amanda Montell in conversation with Sarah Edmondson - The Age of Magical Overthinking

Annabelle Tometich in conversation Ligaya Figueras - The Mango Tree

"'The Mango Tree' introduces us to a debut author ready to bend our understanding of Florida, Filipino American life, and...

Read more about Annabelle Tometich in conversation Ligaya Figueras - The Mango Tree

Stephen Wing - Washed in the Hurricane Book Launch Party

Join A Cappella Books for a special Sunday afternoon book launch party in honor of poet and author Stephen Wing's ...

Read more about Stephen Wing - Washed in the Hurricane Book Launch Party

Natalie Foster in conversation with Aisha Nyandoro - The Guarantee

From the president of the Economic Security Project, a book that shows how a just future is around the corner...

Read more about Natalie Foster in conversation with Aisha Nyandoro - The Guarantee

Writers at the Wrecking Bar Presents Tommy Tomlinson in conversation with Ernie Suggs - Dogland

From Pulitzer Prize finalist Tommy Tomlinson comes an inside account of the Westminster Dog Show that follows one dog on...

Read more about Writers at the Wrecking Bar Presents Tommy Tomlinson in conversation with Ernie Suggs - Dogland

Variety Playhouse presents Alison Roman Gives Solicited Advice

Variety Playhouse welcomes Alison Roman , New York-based cook, writer, podcaster, and author of the New York Times bestsellers, "Sweet Enough,"...

Read more about Variety Playhouse presents Alison Roman Gives Solicited Advice

Moe Bowstern and Mic Crenshaw in conversation with Randy Gue | It Did Happen Here

Portland, Oregon, 1988: the brutal murder of Ethiopian immigrant Mulugeta Seraw by racist skinheads shocked the city. In response, disparate...

Read more about Moe Bowstern and Mic Crenshaw in conversation with Randy Gue | It Did Happen Here

Trees Atlanta and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library present Brian Stone - Radical Adaptation

Today, every major city – in all regions of the world – is confronted with at least three significant impacts...

Read more about Trees Atlanta and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library present Brian Stone - Radical Adaptation

Miranda July in conversation with Virginia Prescott - All Fours

The New York Times bestselling author returns with an irreverently sexy, tender, hilarious and surprising novel about a woman upending...

Read more about Miranda July in conversation with Virginia Prescott - All Fours

Alan Grostephan - The Banana Wars

"I dare you to enjoy a banana split after you've read Alan Grostephan's gut-wrenching novel "The Banana Wars." Vividly written...

Read more about Alan Grostephan - The Banana Wars

Georgia Center for the Book Presents Stephen Hundley in conversation with Mickey Dubrow – Bomb Island

Part coming-of-age summer romance, part thriller, "Bomb Island" is a funny and fast-paced Southern novel exploring subculture communities, survival, and...

Read more about Georgia Center for the Book Presents Stephen Hundley in conversation with Mickey Dubrow – Bomb Island

Auburn Avenue Research Library presents Latasha Morrison - Brown Faces, White Spaces

The New York Times bestselling author of "Be the Bridge" calls people of faith to be a part of lasting...

Read more about Auburn Avenue Research Library presents Latasha Morrison - Brown Faces, White Spaces

Writers at the Wrecking Bar Presents Taylor Brown in conversation with Chuck Reece - Rednecks

A historical drama based on the Battle of Blair Mountain, pitting a multi-ethnic army of 10,000 coal miners against mine...

Read more about Writers at the Wrecking Bar Presents Taylor Brown in conversation with Chuck Reece - Rednecks

Sebastian Junger - In My Time of Dying

A near-fatal health emergency leads to this powerful reflection on death—and what might follow—by the bestselling author of "Tribe" and...

Read more about Sebastian Junger - In My Time of Dying

Stuart Eizenstat in conversation with Jason Carter - The Art of Diplomacy

"Diplomacy has long been the backbone of U.S. foreign policy, and among its most skilled practitioners is Stuart Eizenstat . His...

Read more about Stuart Eizenstat in conversation with Jason Carter - The Art of Diplomacy

Dr. Sharon Malone - Grown Woman Talk

“A must-read for anyone who cares about their quality of life . . . Dr. Sharon Malone is the first...

Read more about Dr. Sharon Malone - Grown Woman Talk

Von Diaz - Islas In-store Book Signing

An intimate reflection on tropical island cooking's bold flavors and big stories, with 125 recipes, from celebrated food writer Von...

Read more about Von Diaz - Islas In-store Book Signing

Taffy Brodesser-Akner in conversation with Jessica Handler - Long Island Compromise

An exhilarating novel about one American family, the dark moment that shatters their suburban paradise, and the wild legacy of...

Read more about Taffy Brodesser-Akner in conversation with Jessica Handler - Long Island Compromise

Writers at the Wrecking Bar Presents Snowden Wright - The Queen City Detective Agency

Following an unforgettable cast of characters and a jaded female P.I. enmeshed in a criminal conspiracy in 1980s Mississippi, "The...

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Book Signing Event: "Hip Hop @ 50"

Date: Saturday, April 27, 2024 Time: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Location: Alexandria Black History Museum Admission: Free

Join us for an exciting book signing event celebrating the launch of  "Hip Hop @ 50" on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:30 pm at the Alexandria Black History Museum . The event, hosted by Alexandria Community Remembrance Project Steering Committee Member Michael Johnson and others, promises an engaging exploration of hip hop culture and its impact over the past five decades.

"Hip Hop @ 50" is the culmination of a two-day conference held at Howard University in October 2023, bringing together scholars, artists, and media icons to delve into the multifaceted world of hip hop. Edited by Dr. Elizabeth Clark Lewis, the book features essays from the symposium, including contributions from Alexandria residents such as Michael Johnson, Samantha Averett, A. Edna Santiago, and Stephanie Johnson.

From personal reflections on hip hop's roots in New York City to its integration into Alexandria's education system, the book offers a comprehensive look at the genre's evolution and influence. Authors explore how hip hop has been shaped by literary movements, social activism, and urban culture, injecting new energy into performance with poetry and wordplay that reflect the realities of urban life.

Books will be available for purchase at the event. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the authors as they discuss their contributions to this groundbreaking exploration of hip hop's enduring legacy.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to celebrate hip hop culture and its impact on communities worldwide. Admission is free, and all are welcome to attend.

For more information, call 703-746-4356 .

About the Authors :

Michael Johnson - A member of the Alexandria Community Remembrance Project Steering Committee, Michael Johnson's essay highlights the role of music in community activities and its positive impact on Alexandria's culture.

Samantha Averett - An educator, Dr. Averett's article explores the evolution of hip hop and its integration into education, emphasizing its importance as a pedagogical tool and a cultural resource.

A. Edna Santiago - Recounting her experiences growing up in New York City during the 1980s, A. Edna Santiago's essay provides personal insights into hip hop's cultural significance and its influence on urban life.

Stephanie Johnson - As a retired employee of Alexandria Public Schools, Stephanie Johnson examines the incorporation of hip hop into education, highlighting its role in culturally relevant teaching methods and its potential for shaping future generations.

Alexandria Community Remembrance Project Steering Committee - Dedicated to preserving and honoring Alexandria's diverse history, the ACRP works to raise awareness of past injustices and promote healing and reconciliation within the community.

For reasonable disability accommodation, contact Nicole Quinn at  [email protected]  or call 703.746.4554, Virginia Relay 711.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email  [email protected]  or call 703-746-3960.

Alexandria at 275: Connecting to our past to define a brighter future.

Since its 1749 founding, the historic city of Alexandria has played a major role in our nation’s story and reflected its progress toward inclusivity. Join us at events from April through September as we mark Alexandria’s 275th anniversary and embark on the next chapter in our city’s vibrant history at  alexandriava.gov/ALX275 .

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For the love of books

Readers Take Denver received backlash after mixed treatment of attendees and authors during 2024 convention.

If you’re a fan of book signings and opportunities to connect with authors and other readers, you might’ve heard of Readers Take Denver . Readers Take Denver started as an author signing event, but in 2024, escalated into being a convention for readers to interact with agents and editors, as well as providing workshops and other opportunities. While it seemed good on paper, the execution of the event left a lot of attendees feeling disappointed. Here’s what caused so much of the fallout for the popular convention.

What happened at Readers Take Denver?

The event took place in mid-April of this year, after a lot of buildup across various social media platforms for Readers Take Denver. There was a wide variety of authors attending, which drew a huge crowd of readers across genres. While ticket sales rose, the problem came at the start of the event.

On April 14th, around 3,000 attendees waited in Denver, Colorado, for the chance to have signings with their favorite authors. And they kept waiting. According to posts on X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit, registration lines went for as long as three hours as attendees attempted to sign in with volunteer employees at the convention. It’s no surprise that convention lines can get long, especially with that many people. But when Readers Take Denver promised that attendees would never stand in line , it became much more upsetting.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emily Rath (@emilyrathauthor)

The lines were only the beginning of concerns. Authors found they didn’t have the necessary space that they were promised, and readers discovered that they couldn’t always meet with the authors they sought when they attended the convention. There were reports of theft, both of merchandise from the authors and of attendees losing books or other belongings brought to the convention.

Volunteers were left sorting stacks of boxes with merchandise for authors and attendees, showing a glimpse behind-the-scenes of how Readers Take Denver was struggling with organizing such a large event. For $300 a ticket, many attendees were surprised that it was all unpaid volunteers doing so much of the work.

How did Readers Take Denver respond?

While there’s a lot of rumors floating around about exactly what happened at the event, one thing is for certain, and it’s that many attendees weren’t satisfied with their experience. Authors pulled out of the 2025 event, and many attendees renounced the event and promised not to attend in the future. With such a drastic response from everyone surrounding the convention, it’s expected that Readers Take Denver will make some sort of announcement in response to all of the backlash.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Readers Take Denver (@readerstakeden)

Readers Take Denver has yet to officially post a statement in relation to the controversy. While they’ve continued posting on Instagram, the comment sections on recent posts are filled with backlash from people wanting them to announce something or make a larger statement about what happened. However, they have posted ticket sales for their 2025 event, and ticket costs have gone up to $375. To increase ticket prices and not acknowledge the flaws of the 2024 event makes a lot of readers nervous about attending.

It’s certainly possible that the 2025 event could be better as the organizers learn from the mistakes of the 2024 convention. However, attendees should be aware of the history of the event and make sure to bring water and prepare for the possibility of long waits.

Looking for new reads? Check out this Bookshop list with recommendations from the team!

Curious about other book controversies? Read on about the Fredyis Moon story!

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The 2024 UN Civil Society Confernce in Nairobi

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Join us at the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi.

A MUST visit when in Nairobi! We offer guided tours through the African Headquarters of the United Nations. Located inside the ample UN complex next to Nairobi’s Karura Forest, the United Nations Visitors Service conveys information about the history, structure and important work of the UN. We explain the work of the different UN agencies located in the complex such as the UN Environment Programme and the Human Settlements Programme which are headquartered in Nairobi. Everyone interested in learning more about the UN is welcome to join us on a tour. In addition, we offer special educational programmes for schools, universities and other group bookings. We are looking forward to hosting you.

The United Nations Civil Society Conference is the premier event on the civil society calendar at the United Nations. The Conference offers civil society organizations an opportunity to put a global perspective on a specific issue and brings together senior UN System officials, prominent international civil society organizations, youth changemakers, academia, public opinion makers, and international media to discuss issues of global concern. This international forum, expected to host some 1500 participants, will provide preliminary discussions and data ahead of the Summit of the Future in September 2024 at the UN Headquarters in New York.

Since 1947, sixty-eight civil society conferences have resulted in successful outcomes due to previous interactions with civil society organizations.

Book a tour

“Civil society organizations were present in San Francisco at the founding of the United Nations and have been an integral part of the United Nations ecosystem from the outset. As part of our consultations, civil society has called for better engagement with the United Nations system. I believe that it is essential for the United Nations to listen to, coordinate with, and engage with civil society.”

Our Common Agenda. Chapter V. Paragraph 121

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The Conference is located at the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) UN Avenue, Gigiri, Nairobi

The Participant's Handbook is a comprehensive guide to attending the conference.

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Civil society plays a fundamental role in shaping a future that, today more than ever, needs multilateral approaches to ensure an inclusive, sustainable, and safe society for all. Since 1947, sixty-eight UN-supported civil society conferences have resulted in successful outcomes. As a result of previous interactions with civil society organizations, we now look forward to the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference in Support of the Summit of the Future to be held in Nairobi on 9- 10 May. Read more...

UN Civil Society Conference in Support of the Summit of the Future daily schedule...

Call For ImPACT Coalitions

The Summit of the Future will take place 22-23 September in UNHQ New York, and is seen as an important moment to mend eroded trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively tackle current challenges as well as those that have emerged in recent years or may be yet over the horizon. Read more...

Message by the #2024UNCSC co-chairs from the UN Office in Nairobi

A message from the UN Office in Nairobi, the host of the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference. Maher Nasser, Chair of the Conference, along with Co-Chairs of the planning committee Carole Ageng'o and Nudhara Yusuf share their commitments for the UN Civil Society Conference. #WeCommit

Every year, thousands of visitors enter the United Nations Office at Nairobi to see firsthand the important work of the UN. Join us on a scenic and informative walk through the African Headquarters of the United Nations.

Meet our Guides

Conference planning co-chairs:.

Maher Nasser,  Director of Outreach in the United Nations Department of Global Communications

“The Department of Global Communications is very proud to be part of the planning and organizing of the 2024 UN Civil Society Conference in Nairobi, the 69 th  since the Department’s creation and one that is receiving immense interest from civil society and other stakeholders, including from government representatives. This is the first of our civil society conferences to be held Africa and we are very grateful to the Government and civil society organizations in Kenya who have welcomed us with open arms and to our colleagues at the UN Office in Nairobi who will be hosting us in their beautiful campus sandwiched between Gigiri district and Karura Forest. As Co-Chair of the Planning Committee, my focus, and that of my colleagues in the Department, is to ensure the success of the Conference under the able leadership of Co-Chairs Carole Ageng’o and Nudhara Yusuf who are supported by a diverse and impressive civil society representatives from all around the world. The Conference comes at a critical point in the preparations for the Summit of the Future, a Summit that is billed as a major step towards a more inclusive and networked multilateralism providing multilateral solutions for a better tomorrow.”

Carole Ageng'o, Global Initiatives Lead & Africa Regional Representative at HelpAge International

"That civil society engagement remains a critical cog in the wheel of development, is well established. Greater collaboration between civil society organizations, governments and private sector can therefore not be more urgent at this time as we gear up for the Summit of the Future.  I look forward to a fruitful and effective partnership with my Co-Chair Nudhara Yusuf in putting together, and delivering (producing) a successful UNSSC to fully anchor civil society participation in the subsequent processes leading up to and including the Summit of the Future. Indeed, civil society participation will contribute greatly towards meeting the aspiration of “an international system – that is better prepared to manage the challenges we face now and, in the future, for the sake of all humanity and for future generations."

Nudhara Yusuf, GGIN Executive Coordinator at Stimson Center

"The Summit of the Future, above all, is a call to rethink the way things have always been done. I believe, along with my Co-Chair Carole, and many other civil society leaders, that Nairobi could and should be a moment for civil society to show, not just call for, process innovation; how civil society engages with intergovernmental processes. Come May 2024, we should have a clearer picture of what a Pact for the Future is likely to constitute, while the Nairobi moment would look to meaningfully feed civil society perspectives into the process, we hope it will also be a place to start the critical multistakeholder conversation about how to land the Pact for the Future. We hope we can capitalize on the multistakeholder and intergenerational convening to build ImPACT Coalitions of Member States, civil society, and UN and other entities, who will help take forth key issue areas and reforms. We hope the Nairobi moment will be a civil society hosted space to move the international community from language to an action oriented networked and inclusive multilateralism.”

Meet the Planning Sub-Committees Co-Chairs

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Book Signing Central

A place for authors.

• [ April 23, 2024 ] Meet & Greet Sunny Hostin Literature
• [ April 21, 2024 ] List of Upcoming Author Events [Updated April 21st] Uncategorized
• [ April 21, 2024 ] Jessie Rosen “The Heirloom” Book Discussion California
• [ April 21, 2024 ] Zoe Sivak “Mademoiselle Revolution” Book Discussion Literature
• [ April 21, 2024 ] Carley Fortune “This Summer Will Be Different” Book Release Literature

Meet & Greet Sunny Hostin

Meet & Greet CO-HOST of THE VIEW and Senior Legal Correspondent for ABC SUNNY HOSTIN MEET & GREET DETAILS Friday, May 31 · 6 – 7pm EDT Books & Greetings 271 Livingston Street Northvale, NJ [read more]

List of Upcoming Author Events [Updated April 21st]

SPONSORED EVENTS May 4th Meet & Greet Ann Napolitano: May 28th Meet & Greet Sunny Hostin: UPCOMING EVENTS APRIL 2024 April 23rd Justin Taylor “Reboot” Author Event: April 23rd Chanel Miller “Magnolia Wu Unfolds It [read more]

Jessie Rosen “The Heirloom” Book Discussion

Join Jessie Rosen to discuss “The Heirloom.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/7/2024 at 7:00 PM VROMAN’S BOOKSTORE 695 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91101 About the Author: Jessie Rosen got her start with the award-winning blog 20-Nothings and has [read more]

Zoe Sivak “Mademoiselle Revolution” Book Discussion

Join Zoe Sivak to discuss “Mademoiselle Revolution.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/6/2024 at 7:30 PM FREE LIBRARY OF PHILADELPHIA 7810 Frankford Ave Philadelphia, PA 19136 About the Author: Zoe Sivak advocates for the restoration of diverse stories [read more]

Carley Fortune “This Summer Will Be Different” Book Release

Join Carley Fortune for “This Summer Will Be Different” book release. BOOK RELEASE DETAILS 5/6/2024 at 6PM BARNES & NOBLE #2675 33 E 17TH ST NEW YORK, NY 10003-2005 About the Author: Carley Fortune is the [read more]

Scott Magoon “Rocket Ship, Solo Trip” Book Discussion

Join Scott Magoon to discuss “Rocket Ship, Solo Trip.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/5/2024 at 12:00 PM G. WILLIKERS 13 MARKET ST PORTSMOUTH, NH 03801-3789 About the Author: Scott Magoon is the illustrator of several acclaimed [read more]

J. Dana Trent “Between Two Trailers” Book Launch

Join in a special event as we celebrate the release of Dana Trent’s new book, “Between Two Trailers.” BOOK LAUNCH DETAILS 5/2/2024 at 18:30 FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 1421 Spruce St Boulder, CO 80302 About [read more]

Holly Gramazio “The Husbands” Author Event

Join in an author event with Holly Gramazio for “The Husbands.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 5/2/2024 at 6:30pm THUMBPRINT CELLARS 102 Matheson St HEALDSBURG, CA 95448-4108 About the Author: Holly Gramazio is a writer, game designer [read more]

Jilly Gagnon “Love You, Mean It” Author Event

Join in an author event with Jilly Gagnon for “Love You, Mean It.” AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 5/2/2024 at 7:00pm JILLY GAGNON IN CONVERSATION WITH KATIE COTUGNO, HOSTED BY TRIDENT BOOKSELLERS 338 NEWBURY ST BOSTON, MA [read more]

Allison Pataki “Finding Margaret Fuller” Book Discussion

Join acclaimed author, Allison Pataki, to discuss her new book, “Finding Margaret Fuller.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/2/2024 at 7:00PM DARIEN LIBRARY 1441 Post Rd Darien, CT 06820 About the Author: Allison Pataki is the New York Times bestselling [read more]

Alice Wong “Disability Intimacy” Author Talk

Join in an author talk with Alice Wong for “Disability Intimacy.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 5/2/2024 at 7:00pm WOMEN AND CHILDREN FIRST 5233 N CLARK ST CHICAGO, IL 60640-2122 About the Author: Alice Wong is a [read more]

Amy Tan “The Backyard Bird Chronicles” Book Discussion

Join Amy Tan to discuss “The Backyard Bird Chronicles.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/1/2024 at 7:00 PM PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY WITH LABYRINTH BOOKS 65 Witherspoon St PRINCETON, NJ 08542-4516 About the Author: AMY TAN is the [read more]

Rachel Khong “Real Americans” Author Talk

Join Rachel Khong to talk about “Real Americans.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 5/1/2024 at 7 PM THE BOOKSMITH IN CONVERSATION WITH MENG JIN 1727 HAIGHT ST SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94117-2807 About the Author: RACHEL KHONG is [read more]

Karen Valby “The Swans of Harlem” Book Discussion

Join Karen Valby to discuss “The Swans of Harlem.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/1/2024 645 ST NICHOLAS AVE New York, NY 10030 About the Author: KAREN VALBY is a writer living in Austin, Texas. Her work has [read more]

Eileen Garvin “Crow Talk” Author Event

Join in an author event with Eileen Garvin for “Crow Talk.” AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 5/1/2024 at 7:00 PM POWELL’S BOOKS EILEEN GARVIN IN CONVERSATION WITH ELIZABETH RUSCH 1005 W BURNSIDE ST PORTLAND, OR 97209-3114 About [read more]

Courtney Preiss “Welcome Home, Caroline Kline” Book Discussion

Join Courtney Preiss to discuss her novel, “Welcome Home, Caroline Kline.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/23/2024 at 7:00PM EAST CITY BOOKSHOP 645 Pennsylvania Ave. SE #100 Washington, DC 20003 About the Author: Courtney Preiss was born in [read more]

Jane Smiley “Lucky” Book Discussion

Join Jane Smiley to discuss “Lucky.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/23/2024 at 7:00PM SYMPHONY SPACE 2537 BROADWAY New York, NY 10025 About the Author: Jane Smiley is the author of numerous novels, including A Thousand Acres, which was [read more]

Chanel Miller “Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All” Book Launch

Join Chanel Miller for “Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All” book launch. BOOK LAUNCH DETAILS 4/23/2024 at 5:30 PM YU AND ME BOOKS LLC 44 MULBERRY ST NEW YORK, NY 10013-4364 About the Author: Chanel Miller is [read more]

Justin Taylor “Reboot” Author Event

Join Justin Taylor to talk about “Reboot.” AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 4/23/2024 at 7:00 PM POWELL’S BOOKS | IN CONVERSATION WITH JON RAYMOND 1005 W BURNSIDE ST PORTLAND, OR 97209-3114 About the Author: JUSTIN TAYLOR is the [read more]

Sarah-Jane Collins “Radiant Heat” Book Release

Join Sarah-Jane Collins for “Radiant Heat” book release. BOOK RELEASE DETAILS 5/28/2024 SHERATON TIMES SQUARE 811 7th Avenue, W 53rd St New York, NY 10019 About the Author: Sarah-Jane Collins is a writer, editor, and journalist [read more]

Jo Piazza “The Sicilian Inheritance” Book Discussion

Join Jo Piazza to discuss “The Sicilian Inheritance.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/20/2024 BOSWELL BOOK COMPANY 2559 N Downer Ave Milwaukee, WI 53211 About the Author: Jo Piazza is the international bestselling author of twelve books, including [read more]

Denise Williams “Technically Yours” Author Event

Join Denise Williams to discuss “Technically Yours.” AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 5/18/2024 at 11:00 AM FRESKO 909 Locust St Ste. 103 Des Moines, IA 50309 About the Author: Denise Williams wrote her first book in the [read more]

Lindsay Starck “Monsters We Have Made” Author Talk

Join in an author event with Lindsay Starck for “Monsters We Have Made.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 5/17/2024 at 6:15 PM DOTTERS BOOKS LLC 307 S BARSTOW ST EAU CLAIRE, WI 54701-3604 About the Author: Lindsay [read more]

George Takei “My Lost Freedom” Author Event

Embark on an extraordinary event with the esteemed actor, activist, and New York Times bestselling author, George Takei! AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 5/11/2024 at 2pm LIBRARY OF CONGRESS THOMAS JEFFERSON BUILDING 10 First St SE Washington, DC 20003 About [read more]

Kristina Forest “The Partner Plot” Book Discussion

Join Kristina Forest to discuss “The Partner Plot.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/11/2024 PITTSBURGH THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY 616 N Highland Ave Pittsburgh, PA 15206 About the Author: Kristina Forest is an author of romance books for young adults. [read more]

Stephen Mack Jones “Deus X” Book Discussion

Join Stephen Mack Jones to discuss “Deus X.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/10/2024 at 10:30 AM THE IROQUOIS CLUB 43248 North Woodward Avenue Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302 About the Author: Hammett Award and Nero Prize-winning novelist [read more]

Erika Howsare “The Age of Deer” Author Talk

Join Erika Howsare to talk about “The Age of Deer.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 5/7/2024 at 6:00pm MALAPROPS BOOKSTORE, INC 55 HAYWOOD ST ASHEVILLE, NC 28801-2834 About the Author: ERIKA HOWSARE holds an MFA in literary arts [read more]

Elizabeth McKenzie “The Dog of the North” Book Discussion

Join Elizabeth McKenzie to discuss “The Dog of the North.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 5/4/2024 BOOK PASSAGE 51 Tamal Vista Corte Madera, CA 94925 About the Author: Elizabeth McKenzie is the author of the novel The Portable Veblen, [read more]

Margaret Juhae Lee “Starry Field” Author Event

Join in an author event with Margaret Juhae Lee for “Starry Field.” AUTHOR EVENT DETAILS 5/4/2024 THE BOOK JEWEL 6259 W 87TH ST LOS ANGELES, CA 90045-3901 About the Author: Margaret Juhae Lee is an [read more]

Joan Nathan “My Life in Recipes” Author Talk [Updated Apr 21st]

Join in an author talk with Joan Nathan for “My Life in Recipes.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 4/30/2024 3200 California Street San Francisco, CA 94118 About the Author: JOAN NATHAN is a frequent contributor to The New [read more]

Keith O’Brien “Charlie Hustle” Author Talk [Updated Apr 21st]

Join Keith O’Brien to discuss “Charlie Hustle.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 4/30/2024 at 7:00 pm THE ODYSSEY BOOK SHOP 9 COLLEGE ST SOUTH HADLEY, MA 01075-1148 About the Author: KEITH O’BRIEN is the New York Times bestselling [read more]

Ruth Behar “Across So Many Seas” Book Discussion [Updated Apr 21st]

Join Ruth Behar to discuss “Across So Many Seas.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/28/2024 BOOK STALL 811 ELM ST WINNETKA, IL 60093-2236 About the Author: Ruth Behar, the Pura Belpré Award–winning author of Lucky Broken Girl, was [read more]

Amitava Kumar “My Beloved Life” Author Talk [Updated Apr 21st]

Join Amitava Kumar to talk about “My Beloved Life.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 4/26/2024 NORTHSHIRE BOOKSELLERS LLC DBA NORTHSHIRE BOOKSTORE 2200 MANCHESTER CENTER, VT 05255-2200 About the Author: AMITAVA KUMAR was born in Ara, India, and [read more]

Caoilinn Hughes “The Alternatives” Book Discussion [Updated Apr 21st]

Join in an author talk and signing with Caoilinn Hughes for the book, “The Alternatives.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/25/2024 at 7:00 PM GLUCKSMAN IRELAND HOUSE 1 Washington Mews New York, NY 10003 About the Author: [read more]

Elizabeth Everett “The Love Remedy” Book Discussion [Updated Apr 21st]

Join Elizabeth Everett to discuss “The Love Remedy.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/25/2024 EAST CITY BOOKS LLC DBA EAST CITY BOOKSHOP 645 PENNSYLVANIA AVE SE STE 100 WASHINGTON, DC 20003-4379 About the Author: Elizabeth Everett lives in [read more]

José Vadi “Chipped” Book Discussion [Updated Apr 21st]

Join José Vadi to discuss “Chipped.” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/25/2024 at 7:00pm GREEN APPLE BOOKS ON THE PARK 1231 9TH AVE SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94122-2306 About the Author: José Vadi is the author of Chipped and Inter State: [read more]

Philip Eil “Prescription for Pain” Author Talk [Updated Apr 21st]

Join in an author talk with Philip Eil for “Prescription for Pain.” AUTHOR TALK DETAILS 4/25/2024 LEARNING VENTURES LLC DBA: BOOKS ON THE SQUARE 471 ANGELL ST PROVIDENCE, RI 02906-4407 About the Author: Philip Eil is [read more]

Kaveh Akbar “Martyr!” Book Discussion [Updated Apr 21st]

Join Kaveh Akbar to discuss “Martyr!” BOOK DISCUSSION DETAILS 4/24/2024 at 7:00 PM VROMAN’S BOOKSTORE 695 E COLORADO BLVD PASADENA, CA 91101-2116 About the Author: KAVEH AKBAR’s poems appear in The New Yorker, The New York [read more]

Anne Lamott “Somehow” Author Event [Updated Apr 21st]

Symphony Space celebrates Anne Lamott’s 70th birthday and the publication of her 20th book. Somehow: Thoughts on Love draws from her own life to examine how love bolsters us in the face of despair and galvanizes us to [read more]

Timothy Schaffert “The Titanic Survivors Book Club” Book Party [Updated Apr 21st]

Board at Queenstown (aka Flixx) for a Titanic-theme cocktail (on the rocks) with author (and Titanic survivor) Timothy Schaffert; sweets (candied squid, etc); and a Celine Dion-alike drag show. And a free signature with every [read more]

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