For a quarter-century, the Library of Congress National Book Festival has united readers and writers across genres and generations.
On Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025, it marks its 25th anniversary with more than 90 featured authors at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C.
A Literary Milestone Worth Attending
The 2025 National Book Festival brings together an exceptional array of voices in fiction, nonfiction, poetry, biography, and children’s literature. From first-time attendees to long-standing favorites, this year’s participants offer fresh perspectives and thought-provoking narratives.
Spanning a full day—from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.—the festival remains free and open to the public. Doors open at 8:30 a.m., inviting readers of all ages to engage with authors, explore interactive exhibits, and participate in hands-on workshops.
Featured Authors and Notable Appearances
Justice Amy Coney Barrett
In her new book, Listening to the Law, Barrett offers reflections on the U.S. Constitution and her path to the Supreme Court. Her insights provide a rare look at judicial reasoning and civic responsibility.
Geena Davis
Award-winning actress and activist Geena Davis presents The Girl Who Was Too Big for the Pages, a playful yet poignant picture book that encourages children to embrace their uniqueness.
Ron Chernow
Pulitzer Prize-winner Chernow, known for his biography Alexander Hamilton, discusses his latest work, Mark Twain, offering a fresh examination of one of America’s literary icons.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Adichie returns to fiction with Dream Count, her first novel in ten years. Her appearance marks a highlight for festivalgoers drawn to global literary voices.
John Green
Green brings his latest nonfiction book, Everything Is Tuberculosis, a personal and historical exploration of one of the world’s deadliest diseases.
A Wide Spectrum of Literary Talent
The event also features U.S. Poets Laureate Joy Harjo, Ada Limón, and Tracy K. Smith, each presenting new poetry collections.
Middle grade icon R.L. Stine returns after 13 years with two chilling releases. Meanwhile, historian Jill Lepore and scholar Yuval Levin tackle America’s constitutional heritage in new works on law and society.
Festival Overview and Visitor Essentials
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025 |
| Location | Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C. |
| Admission | Free and open to all |
| Operating Hours | 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. (Doors open at 8:30 a.m.) |
| Livestream | Available via loc.gov/bookfest |
| On-Demand Access | Full videos on YouTube and the Library of Congress website |
| Media Partners | C-SPAN Book TV, NPR, The Washington Post |
Additional Highlights:
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STEM and literary activity zones for families
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Interactive exhibits featuring all 50 U.S. states and territories
Experience Literature in Every Form
Festivalgoers will find more than author talks. Interactive zones such as the Story District and Workshop Space offer storytelling, STEM exploration, and hands-on learning.
The Roadmap to Reading invites visitors to discover literary selections from across the U.S. and its territories.
Whether you’re an avid reader or a curious visitor, the festival is designed to foster meaningful connections with literature and learning.
Access the Festival Online and On Air
For those unable to attend in person, the festival offers a robust virtual presence. Main Stage events will stream live on the Library’s website. Recordings of all author sessions will be available shortly afterward.
C-SPAN Book TV will also cover select sessions, providing televised interviews and features. NPR and The Washington Post return as media partners, offering curated coverage and behind-the-scenes insights.
A Tradition That Continues to Inspire
Founded in 2001 by former First Lady Laura Bush, the National Book Festival has evolved into a cultural mainstay. It remains rooted in the belief that reading fosters curiosity, empathy, and lifelong learning.
As the festival enters its 25th year, its mission is clearer than ever: to celebrate the written word, spark discovery, and bring diverse voices to the forefront of public conversation.
Stay Informed and Explore More
To explore the full schedule, featured authors, and livestream options, visit loc.gov/bookfest. Subscribe to the Library of Congress Bookmarked blog for upcoming updates and behind-the-scenes content.
Sources: Library of the Congress.
Prepared by Ivan Alexander Golden, Founder of THX News™, an independent news organization delivering timely insights from global official sources. Combines AI-analyzed research with human-edited accuracy and context.
