Columbia Unveils the Inaugural Read Freely Fest

News Summary

Columbia, South Carolina, invites all book lovers to the first-ever Read Freely Fest from March 28-30, 2025, at Richland Library Main. This free festival celebrates literature with author panels, book signings, and the opportunity to interact with bestselling authors. Families will enjoy diverse activities, including a kickoff party, a silent disco, and a vibrant marketplace featuring unique vendors. The event promises to foster a love for reading and storytelling within the community, creating an unforgettable weekend for attendees of all ages.

Columbia Gets Ready for a Book-Lover’s Paradise with the Inaugural Read Freely Fest!

Attention all bookworms, families, and literary buffs in Columbia, South Carolina! Mark your calendars because something special is coming your way! From March 28 to March 30, 2025, the stunning Richland Library Main at 1431 Assembly St. will transform into a vibrant book festival called the Read Freely Fest. This is a free event that promises to connect readers, writers, and everyone in between for a festival filled with stories and unforgettable moments!

A Festival Like No Other

Get ready to dive deep into the world of literature as the Read Freely Fest aims to be an immersive experience for attendees of all ages. The festival is packed with exciting activities and events that cater to varied interests, making it suitable for everyone from toddlers to grandparents! Whether you’re an avid reader, a budding writer, or just curious about the literary world, there’s something here for you.

Kickoff Party with a Twist

The festivities will kick off with a lively party dubbed “Overdue”. This is the perfect way to start the weekend, filled with energy, laughter, and fun! It’s an opportunity to meet fellow lovers of literature and maybe even make a few new friends who share your passion.

Meet the Stars of the Festival

Throughout the weekend, attendees will get a chance to meet New York Times bestselling authors while participating in interactive panels. The lineup of speakers features some remarkable talents, including:

• DeLana R. A. Dameron – She’ll be presenting her compelling work, “Redwood Court”, which is a Reese Book Club pick set for release in February 2024.
• Patti Callahan Henry – A celebrated author known for hits like “Becoming Mrs. Lewis” and “The Story She Left Behind”.
• Mike Curato – Renowned for his acclaimed work “Flamer”, which won the 2020 Lambda Literary Award for LGBTQ Young Adult literature.
• Abbott Kahler – Another bestselling author who has penned thrilling titles like “Sin in the Second City” and “The Ghosts of Eden Park”.
• Brendan Slocumb – He’s making waves for his impactful books “The Violin Conspiracy” and “Symphony of Secrets”.

And don’t worry! There are more authors expected to be announced soon, so stay tuned for additional surprises!

Fun for All Ages

The festival isn’t just about meeting authors, though. There will be book signings, an audiobook silent disco, and a bustling book sale where you can snag amazing deals on books, including indie-published works. Imagine uncovering hidden literary gems to take home!

An Atmosphere of Creativity and Exploration

The atmosphere during the festival is sure to be electric, showcasing stimulating panels and engaging discussions led by esteemed authors and industry experts. There will also be a marketplace featuring over 30 vendors, each bringing unique literary treasures to explore.

A Celebration of Culture

To elevate this cultural celebration even further, guests can enjoy live music and performances while indulging in delicious food. The festival’s motto, “where stories find good company,” perfectly encapsulates this inviting event aimed at nurturing a love for reading and storytelling.

Join the Fun!

Lee Snelgrove, the Arts & Culture Manager for Richland Library, is hard at work coordinating this incredible event that promises to resonate with everyone in the community. With support from local bookstore All Good Books and sponsorships from various literary organizations, this inaugural Read Freely Fest is set to be an exciting celebration of intellectual freedom!

So, whether you’re coming for the books, the authors, or the sheer love of literature, make sure to save the dates and join the fun at the Read Freely Fest in Columbia. It’s going to be a weekend filled with laughter, learning, and lots and lots of stories!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

• Cola Daily: Richland Library Announces New Book Festival
• ABC Columbia: Richland Library to Host SC’s New Free Book Festival
• Cola Daily: Headliners Announced for Columbia’s Inaugural Book Festival
• Post and Courier: Read Freely Book Festival at Columbia Richland Library
• Wikipedia: Book Festival