Columbia Welcomes Inaugural Read Freely Fest: A Celebration of Literature and Community

Columbia Gears Up for a Fantastic Literary Celebration

Mark your calendars, folks! Columbia is about to get a literary makeover with the inaugural Read Freely Fest happening at the Richland Library Main from March 28 to 30. This is not just any festival; it’s a delightful playground for book lovers, aspiring writers, and families looking for a day of fun!

Best-Selling Authors to Light Up the Stage

Richland County Public Library has rounded up an impressive lineup of five headlining authors to take center stage at this event. Prepare to be captivated by the likes of :

• DeLana R. A. Dameron – The author behind Redwood Court, which has been picked by Reese’s Book Club and is set to launch in February 2024.
• Patti Callahan Henry – A New York Times bestselling author known for her heartwarming reads, including Becoming Mrs. Lewis and The Story She Left Behind.
• Mike Curato – The mind behind Flamer, a notable LGBTQ Young Adult novel that won the 2020 Lambda Literary Award.
• Abbott Kahler – Another bestselling author whose works, such as Sin in the Second City, are sure to intrigue.
• Brendan Slocumb – The talent behind The Violin Conspiracy and Symphony of Secrets.

A Festival Experience Like No Other

This literary celebration isn’t just about the authors; it aims to foster a spirit of community among readers and writers. With a vibrant marketplace boasting over 30 vendors, you can explore a treasure trove of literary goods. And guess what? Emerging indie authors will also have a space to showcase their work, making this an all-inclusive experience for anyone who loves the written word.

Hear from Notable Voices

Want to dive deeper into the world of literature? The festival will be holding engaging panel discussions featuring esteemed authors and industry experts. It’s a chance to soak up some wisdom and ask questions that have been on your mind. And if you’re lucky, you might just get to join the conversation!

Cultural Fun and Entertainment

But wait, there’s more! Read Freely Fest promises an exciting lineup of live music, performances, and some seriously mouth-watering food options. So, if you’re looking to enjoy a weekend brimming with stories, creativity, and cultural events, this is the place to be. With the slogan, “Where stories find good company,” the festival aims to encourage exploration and appreciation for the beauty of narratives.

Details You Don’t Want to Miss

When and where can you partake in this literary extravaganza? The Read Freely Fest will unfold at Richland Library Main, located at 1431 Assembly Street in Columbia. Be sure to keep an eye out for more information and additional author announcements on ReadFreelyFest.com.

This is shaping up to be an unforgettable event for book lovers of all ages. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to immerse yourselves in a world of literature, creativity, and fun this spring!

For all those who love a good book or are just looking for a delightful weekend, this festival is not to be missed. Come join the celebration and let your imagination run wild!