Jax Book Fest

No, you do not need a library card to attend. The event is free and open to all. But you'll be able to do a whole lot more if you have a card, including check out books. Main Library is home to the Local Author Collection and Zine Collection, which includes work from some of our featured local authors. Staff may also ask for your library card at activity stations. 

Please note: A Jacksonville Public Library card is required to pre-register for Lit Chat programs. Registration is recommended as space is limited. Walk-ins will be welcome if seats remain.

Street parking downtown is free on Saturdays! Paid parking is also available in the Parking Garage at 33 W. Duval Street, next to the Main Library. During special events, there is a flat fee (usually $5 or $10) and there is no validation. Note: All visitors will enter and exit at 303 N. Laura St.

This event is free and open to all. Jacksonville Public Library card is required for pre-registration. Walk-ins will be welcome as space permits. Library card holders: Save your seat by registering at jaxlibrary.org/LitChat. There is no registration required for book signings.

This event has gotten so big that this year, it's starting a month early—with a full day of free writing and publishing workshops! Jax Book Fest presents "Writer's Day" from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, in the Conference Center at the Main Library. Learn more: jaxlibrary.org/WritersDay

Four food trucks will be parked outside, across the street, in James Weldon Johnson Park. There are also several cafes and restaurants downtown, within walking distance. 

Stop by our welcome table for a complete list or go to visitjacksonville.com/neighborhoods/downtown/

There was an open call for local authors June 1-30. At this time, there is a waitlist and we are no longer accepting applications. All 120+ selected authors were notified on July 13.

Yes. You can donate your book to the Library's Local Author Collection at the event or at any other time that's convenient to you. You can even bring a copy of your book to your neighborhood branch location to donate. 

Submit the completed Agreement Form and In-Kind Donation Form, along with a donated copy of your book, to any Jacksonville Public Library location or mail to:

Collection Development: Local Author 
3435 University Blvd. N, Jacksonville, FL 32277

We will have printed copies of these forms at the event as well as Collection Development staff to answer any questions you might have about the process. 

You can also visit our Local Author Collection page to request the fillable .pdf files. 

Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, accommodations for persons with disabilities are available upon request. Please allow 1–2 business days to process. Last-minute requests will be accepted, but may not be possible to fulfill. Please ask for Learning Services at (904) 255-2665 or email JPLPrograms@coj.net.

#Details Regarding Setup

Setup will take place from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. on the Conference, Ground, and 2nd Floors of the Main Library. You will be assigned a floor and table number and provided with a floor plan. Staff and/or volunteers will be on the floor and available to provide directions. 

A six-foot rectangular table and two chairs will be provided to each author, unless you are sharing a table with another author.

We cannot guarantee access to electricity. Free public Wi-Fi is available.

Exhibitors may begin breaking down their booths at 4 p.m. The Library closes promptly at 6 p.m.

Note: Library staff and volunteers will not be available to help set up or break down booths. Please plan accordingly.

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#What to Bring 

Authors are responsible for bringing, storing, and selling their own books and other materials. 

We recommend bringing:

• At least 5 – 10 copies of your book(s). If you think you will sell more, bring more. 
• Your own cash and/or card readers for book sales. The Library cannot make change and no banks located downtown are open on Saturday.
• A tablecloth(s), signage, and any other materials needed for an attractive booth space.
• A second person to speak to visitors and transact sales on your behalf if need a break or wish to attend Lit Chat programs. Please note: Library staff and volunteers are not allowed to man tables or conduct transactions.