National Book Festival Offers Free Activities for Readers of All Ages

Strategic Insights -

The Library of Congress is gearing up for the 2025 National Book Festival, set to take place on Saturday, September 6, at the Washington Convention Center. This year's event promises to unite book lovers of all ages, featuring over 90 authors and illustrators, as well as a variety of free activities for families and attendees. The festival's schedule can be accessed through the Library's website, allowing attendees to browse author programs, stages, and event types by genre or author name.

Key Takeaways:

  • The 2025 National Book Festival will take place on Saturday, September 6, at the Washington Convention Center, offering free activities for readers and attendees of all ages.
  • The festival features over 90 authors and illustrators, including R.L. Stine, Geena Davis, Leigh Bardugo, and John Picacio, who will share their work on various stages and in interactive programs.
  • Activities for families and attendees of all ages include hands-on programming with Library specialists, exploring the Library's resources, and attending author talks and workshops.
  • The STEM District, sponsored by General Motors, offers a space for kids to learn about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive activities and stories.
  • The Story District, sponsored by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, celebrates authors, illustrators, and stories, featuring activities and interactive programs with local literacy nonprofits.
  • The Library of Congress Pavilion hosts experts who showcase the Library's hidden gems, historic treasures, and innovative work, offering volunteer opportunities, resources for educators and writers, and more.
  • Additional sponsors and exhibitors include the Folger Shakespeare Library, Highlights Magazine, the National Center on Improving Literacy, and the Library of Congress Store.

Statistics:

  • The festival features over 90 authors and illustrators, offering a diverse range of genres and interests.
  • The event represents a collaboration between the Library of Congress and over a dozen organizations, non-profits, and sponsors.
  • The festival's STEM District offers a hands-on space for kids to engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through interactive activities and stories.
  • The Roadmap to Reading celebrates books and reading with representatives from across the United States, featuring book selections from the nationwide network of Centers for the Book.

Sources:

  • Library of Congress. "National Book Festival Offers Free Activities for Readers of All Ages."

* https://www.loc.gov/item/prn-25-053/national-book-festival-offers-free-activities-for-readers-of-all-ages/2025-08-14/

  • Institute of Museum and Library Services. "Roadmap to Reading."

* https://www.ims.gov/roadmap-to-reading

  • National Book Festival. "2025 National Book Festival Schedule."

* https://loc.gov/bookfest