Texas Book FestivalThe Texas Book Festival, considered the premier literary event in the nation, has announced that it will partner with the San Antonio Public Library Foundation to present its first-ever major event outside of the city of Austin. The first annual San Antonio Edition will take place in the Alamo City on April 13, 2013.

“We are thrilled to be working with the Library Foundation to expand Texas Book Festival into San Antonio,” says Executive Director Lidia Agraz. “As with our signature event held in Austin every October, this ‘new edition’ will celebrate the culture of literacy, ideas, and imagination, and will be free and open to the public.”

The Texas Book Festival/San Antonio Edition will be held on April 13 as part of the festivities celebrating the San Antonio Public Library Foundation’s 30th anniversary. The San Antonio Edition will be a free day of literary happenings at the San Antonio Central Library and neighboring Southwest School of Art, and will offer book lovers up-close encounters with 50 Texas and national authors at readings, panel discussions, and signings. Visitors of all ages and interests will have the opportunity to celebrate the printed word in an open, fun, and friendly setting. Topics will range from politics and fiction to poetry and cookbooks. Special tents will feature a variety of food, cooking demonstrations, and musical entertainment while story times and learning activities will be offered for children.

“The collaboration between the Festival, the San Antonio Public Library Foundation, the Library and the Southwest School of Art—and the opportunity for more important partnerships with local non-profits—represents a steadfast commitment to reading, writing, books and libraries, which, in turn, will enhance the entire San Antonio community,” says Tracey Bennett, president of the Library Foundation.

“The festival’s location at the library is intentional; it is a strategic partnership aimed at building awareness and excitement for the citywide library system and the resources it offers, while also promoting the benefits of books and reading,” adds Katy Flato, director of the Texas Book Festival/San Antonio Edition. “In this age of Google, Amazon and e-books, the role of the library in our community continues to change as it becomes increasingly more essential. Access to computers, technology and online services is of the highest priority as is addressing many public functions. Whether it is voter registration, health information, job services, immigrant acculturation, teen programming or adult literacy training, the library is the ‘go-to’ place for anyone who needs help, free of charge. Many visitors may go to the library for the simple joy — and novelty – of turning the pages of hardback book. That joy is at the center of the Texas Book Festival/San Antonio Edition.”

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This