Jax Book Fest Returns for Seventh Year with Expanded Format and New York Times Bestselling Authors

Strategic Insights -

The seventh annual Jax Book Fest, hosted by the Jacksonville Public Library, will take place over two consecutive Saturdays in September. The free event will feature appearances and book signings by three New York Times bestselling authors, as well as dozens of local writers and activities for all ages. The festival will offer a full schedule of workshops on Writers' Day, September 13, and a youth-focused day on September 20, with a range of events, including author talks, face painting, and other free youth activities.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Jax Book Fest will be held over two consecutive Saturdays, September 13 and 20, at the Main Library in Jacksonville, Florida.
  • The free event will feature appearances and book signings by three New York Times bestselling authors: Tiya Miles, Mac Barnett, and Shannon Messenger.
  • Writers' Day on September 13 will offer a full schedule of workshops from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., covering topics such as revising your work, traditional publishing, and contracts and licensing.
  • Youth Readers' Day on September 20 will include more than 60 local authors of children's and teen books, appearances by Mac Barnett and Shannon Messenger, and a range of free youth activities.
  • The festival has grown significantly since its first year, from a single-day event to a two-day celebration, consistently drawing thousands of attendees.
  • The expansion to two days reflects the festival's continued growth and the library's commitment to fostering a vibrant literary community.

Statistics:

  • The Jax Book Fest has grown from a single-day event in its first year to a two-day celebration over the past six years.
  • The festival consistently draws thousands of attendees.
  • More than 60 local authors will participate in Youth Readers' Day on September 20.
  • The festival features a list of New York Times bestselling authors, including Tiya Miles, Mac Barnett, and Shannon Messenger.

Sources:

  • Jacksonville Public Library, [jaxpubliclibrary.org/bookfest](http://jaxpubliclibrary.org/bookfest)
  • City of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Public Library, "Jax Book Fest Returns for Seventh Year," [jacksonville.com](http://jacksonville.com)