Fort Bend County Libraries announces the second annual “Fort Bend County Libraries Book Festival” on Saturday, November 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at George Memorial Library, 1001 Golfview in Richmond.
The event celebrates books, authors, and the importance of literature to the imaginations of children and adults alike. Featured author Chitra Divakaruni will share her experiences becoming a published writer. Hear about where she finds inspiration and the advice she has to offer other aspiring writers.
Showcasing an exciting line-up of storytellers, artisans, performances, and workshops, the festival will have literary events, free activities, and fun for the whole family throughout the building and in the outdoor amphitheater behind the library. Food trucks will be selling a variety of food options in the parking lot.
Members of Writespace – a grassroots literary arts organization – will present a workshop for new and emerging authors who would like tips and insight into the writing and publishing industry. Founded by writers, for writers, Writespace provides high-quality training, encouragement, and mentorship opportunities through workshops, readings, open-mic events, and manuscript consultations for writers of all genres.
Live music is planned for the library’s Jodie E. Stavinoha Amphitheater for the festival. Enjoy the raucous, modern, Southern-rock sound of Yaupon, an indie rock band whose music is inspired by favorite ‘70s tunes the band members grew up listening to in their dads’ trucks. Festival-goers will also be treated to the eclectic sounds of Phrolic, a rock and jazz fusion group based in Houston. Phrolic’s blend of rock, jazz, and funk has made them one of Houston’s “upcoming bands to watch.” Between performances, family-friendly music by DJ Supermarket will entertain music lovers.
Educational entertainer Julian Franklin will mesmerize kids with his interactive reading show that incorporates books, puppets, and magic to awaken a love of reading in children of all ages. Children will discover how books can reveal the secrets of doing a magic trick, putting on a puppet show, or simply telling a funny joke!
Showcasing some of the many craft activities that take place at the libraries throughout the year, a “Recycled Books Exhibit” will be set up in the library’s lobby. Examples of upcycled and repurposed book-craft projects will be on display, and demonstrations will take place.
A book-restoration demonstration will be presented by Bella Becho Book & Print Bindery, a book-binding service located in the Heights. Watch a time-lapse video of the restoration process, and see how antique or damaged books can be preserved.
Calligraphers from the Houston Calligraphy Guild and the Chinese Community Center in Houston will demonstrate the fine art of creating beautiful works from the written word. Festival-goers can participate in hands-on activities and create their own calligraphy pieces to take home with them.
Teens can learn how to create a zine of their own in a special Young Adult zine-making workshop presented by organizers of Zine Fest Houston. Short for “fanzine,” zines are self-published magazines in which one can express opinions on important issues, interests, and ideas to be shared with friends and community. Teens will also have an opportunity to learn how to make handcrafted UV resin charms that can be worn as a necklace.
Visitors will also be able to view the photographic exhibit, “The Arts of Russell Autrey: Artist, Photographer, Ractonteur,” which has been extended through the end of November. Autrey will be on hand to greet guests, and copies of his book of photographs will be available for sale and signing.
The Friends of the George Memorial Library will have a big Book Sale at the front entrance of the library, and membership applications will be available for people who would like to join them in supporting the library. In addition, a Holiday Market will have seasonal craft items available for sale; proceeds will go toward the Friends of the Library and cultural events such as the Book Fest.
The Fort Bend County Book Festival is made possible by the Friends of the George Memorial Library. The Friends organization is instrumental in funding library programs such as the children’s Summer Reading Club. Proceeds from the book sales and annual membership dues also help to underwrite the costs of special programming and many cultural and educational events at the libraries.
The event is free and open to the public. The complete schedule of events will be posted on the FBCL website – www.fortbend.lib.tx.us. For more information, call the library system’s Communications Office at 281-633-4734.