2009 US National Book Festival in D.C.

President Obama and First Lady Chair Gala

The Library of Congress is preparing for the 2009 National Book Festival, at which President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama will be presented as honorary chairs. Free and open to the public, the event celebrating reading and fine literature will be held on Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between 7th and 14th Streets from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Librarian of Congress James H. Billington stated, "We are delighted that the President and Mrs. Obama are committed to bringing this inspirational event to people of all ages nationwide."

This year's festival will include conversations and book-signings with over 60 critically acclaimed novelists, poets, and illustrators from various genres, including prose, poetry, and nonfiction. Authors John Grisham, Junot Diaz, Judy Blume, David Baldacci, John Irving, Julia Alvarez, Sue Monk Kidd, Nicholas Sparks, along with notable PBS presenters are among the few expected to make presentations. Past presenters include literary notables Christopher Buckley, Salman Rushdie, Sandra Brown, and R.L. Stine. Along with meeting literary names, attendees will learn more about the latest literacy programs and resources in state libraries from all 50 states as well as U.S. trusts and territories.

The first book festival was organized in 2001 by former public school librarian and then First Lady Laura Bush. The former First Lady was inspired to start this festival after helping establish the Texas Book Festival several years prior. Since its premiere, the event has annually attracted thousands of people from across the nation.

Further information about the festival can be found at the Library of Congress website.