About
acksonville Public Library’s Jax Book Fest returns for its seventh year this September with an exciting new format: two consecutive Saturdays of programs for readers and writers of all ages. The free event will be held at the Main Library, 303 N. Laura St., and will feature appearances and book signings by three New York Times bestselling authors — Tiya Miles, Mac Barnett, and Shannon Messenger — along with dozens of local writers and activities for all ages.
The festival opens Saturday, Sept. 13, with Writers’ Day, offering a full schedule of workshops from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Topics include revising your work, understanding traditional publishing, and navigating contracts and licensing. The day also includes two featured programs with National Book Award winner Tiya Miles.
On Saturday, Sept. 20, the focus shifts to young readers and families with Youth Readers’ Day from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will include more than 60 local authors of children’s and teen books, appearances by New York Times bestselling authors Shannon Messenger and Mac Barnett, Junior and Teen Lit Chat author talks, face painting, balloon artists, the River City Readers Bookmobile, and other free youth activities.
“We’re excited to spread Jax Book Fest across two Saturdays this year,” says Katie Devanny, Manager for Adult Learning at Jacksonville Public Library. “The festival has grown so much over the past six years because people really love it, and they tell us! We’ve gotten great feedback. We want to serve the readers and writers of all ages throughout Jacksonville and Duval.”
Since its first year, Jax Book Fest has grown from a single-day event to become Jacksonville’s premier literary celebration, consistently drawing thousands of attendees and featuring dozens of local and national authors. The expansion to two days reflects the festival’s continued growth and the library’s commitment to fostering a vibrant literary community. For more event details and registration, visit jaxpubliclibrary.org/bookfest.Big news, bookworms! Jax Book Fest is back and bigger than ever!
Join us at the Main Library for two epic Saturdays of author talks, workshops, giveaways, and literary fun for all ages.
Sept. 13 – Writers’ Day
Sept. 20 – Youth + Readers’ Day
Whether you’re writing your first novel or just looking for your next favorite read, there’s something for everyone.
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