The Free Library Festival, launched as the Philadelphia Book Festival in 2007, is an annual 2-day celebration of books, music, people, and ideas, hosted by the Free Library of Philadelphia at the Parkway Central Library. The Festival is a free, public event that draws 25,000-35,000 booklovers from across the mid-Atlantic region each year. Highlights include appearances by celebrity authors, engaging children’s programs, live music and other performances, plus a Street Fair & Literary Marketplace featuring more than 100 exhibitors—including publishers, booksellers, independent authors, and cultural organizations.
View Authors and Performers from previous Festivals:
2009 Festival Program 
2008 Featured Authors
2008 Performances and More
2007 Featured Authors
2007 Performances and More
What people are saying about the Free Library Festival...
“It is so great to be among fellow citizens who actually read, or want to!”
--2009 Festival Attendee
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“I love the whole idea that the Library has a festival! It shows everyone how important the Free Library is to the city, and that's no small matter.”
--2009 Festival Attendee |
“It is an extraordinary event, one which I doubt another city could duplicate.”
--2009 Festival Attendee |
“Each year the festival is full of surprises. It’s something I look forward to all year.”
--2009 Festival Attendee |
“I love that it's completely free! It really makes it an event that everyone in the city can come to. It's nice to see that diversity of attendees, across class, race, and other things. And it's great to see so many children!”
--2009 Festival Attendee
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“I think it's fabulous to see noted authors and hear them read about their works and/or answer questions regarding their books. It's a wonderful festival and becoming one of my faves for the city of Philadelphia.” --2009 Festival Attendee |
“It's a great venue for coming with my daughter and meeting up with others for a free, book-focused event. It makes the library exciting in more than just the usual ways, and I like that for the kids. Last year, it got us going back to the library regularly.”
--2009 Festival Attendee |
“The event was very well organized and the staff was friendly and helpful.”
–2009 Author Exhibitor |
“The set-up was terrific (location, layout, activities) and the volunteers helpful (registration, those handing out festival information pamphlets, organizers). Although I give you all kudos, the best experience perhaps was the delightful weather, which I know you planned.”
–2009 Literary Exhibitor
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"It was a thoughtful and stimulating event. You put on a very impressive festival."
--2008 Festival Author |
"Your second Philadelphia Book Festival had terrific speakers! I attended yesterday, and stayed longer than planned. I heard the memoir panel at 1, Amy and David Goodman at 2, and Philip Gourevitch at 4. Keep up the good work and know that I appreciate your efforts."
--2008 Festival Attendee
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"I had a blast at the festival and the new exposure was great for my endeavor...I was so wonderfully busy with the attendees at the festival that I never got a chance to get out of my booth and get myself a festival t-shirt. I look forward to returning next year with my latest manuscript..."
--2008 Exhibiting Author
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