Festival Location
Parkway Central Library
1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Main Information: 215-686-5322
The Street Fair will be held in the streets surrounding Parkway Central Library.
Dates & Times
Saturday and Sunday, April 18 & 19, 2009
Times TBD
What does it cost?
Nothing! Festival events, exhibits, and programs are free and open to the public. Please save your money to purchase signed copies of the latest books from your favorite authors and books and other merchandise from the fine vendors at the Street Fair!
How do I get there?
Click here for detailed directions, both driving and public transportation.
Where should I park?
There are parking lots located at 18th & Vine and 17th & Vine (within 2-3 blocks of the Parkway Central Library). See the Site Map for details. There is also limited, street parking nearby.
Will there be changes to Public Transit schedules and routes?
Some public transit schedules and routes will be changed during the Festival. For up-to-date changes in schedules and route maps, visit www.septa.org.
How do I buy books for a particular author event?
Books for the Festival Program events will be sold on-site by Joseph Fox Book Shop, Children's Book World, and Friends Book Corner. A portion of proceeds from these sales benefits the Free Library of Philadelphia. Thank you!
Can I make a reservation for a must-see event?
No. Seating at all events is on a first come, first seated basis.
What about standing room?
There are limits on the number of people allowed in the various festival venues. Standing room is reserved for key staff members and press as necessary. All public attendees must be seated.
How early should I arrive to see an event?
Events will run (almost) continuously in all festival venues. It is a good idea to arrive early to your must-see events. You might even catch another great reading or performance! Please be courteous to visitors attending events earlier events: turn off cell phones and limit conversations in waiting areas.
What hours will the Central Library be open?
All departments of the Central Library will be open during book festival hours.
Where are the public restrooms?
Public restrooms are located inside the Free Library on the Ground Floor. There are children’s restrooms (for children 12 and under) located near the Central Children's Department. There are also public restrooms located outside. See the Site Map for locations.
Will there be food available on-site?
There will be food vendors at different locations throughout the Street Fair. See the Site Map for specific locations. Food options include kid-friendly fare and vegetarian options.
Other neighborhood options include:
Whole Foods (20th & Callowhill)
Starbucks (20th & Callowhill)
The Rose Tattoo* (19th & Callowhill)
*Saturday only
I am a self-published author, how can I be a part of the Festival?
Author appearances at the Philadelphia Book Festival are by invitation only. Due to the high volume of inquiries about on-stage appearances, we are unable to respond to every inquiry. Self-published authors are encouraged to join the festival as an Independent Author Exhibitor. Click here for details.
I am a storyteller, musician, or other performer, how can I be a part of the Festival?
Press kits, including a brief biography, at least 2 press clippings, sample work (CD, DVD, or link to performance), and brief proposal may be sent to:
Author Events Office
Free Library of Philadelphia
1901 Vine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Attn: Performance Submissions
Materials are non-returnable. Submission does not imply acceptance and due to the high volume of inquiries about on-stage appearances, we are unable to respond to every inquiry.
How can I get involved? Volunteer! OR Exhibit!
Question not answered above? Click here.
