Barrie Public Library (BPL) is set to host its Local Author Book Market again this year. The event, which celebrates the city’s diverse literary talent, takes place on Saturday, December 9, from 10 am - 3 pm.
This year's market returns to the Painswick location at 48 Dean Avenue with an even more extensive lineup.
Chantale Boileau, BPL's Program and Outreach Librarian, expressed enthusiasm about the growing event. She shared, "We have a strong community of local authors in Barrie, and we are happy to support them as a library. Last year was a great success with 27 authors and over 200 attendees. This year, with 40 authors joining us, we’re thrilled to witness the growth!"
The event promises to be a literary extravaganza, showcasing an array of genres including non-fiction, true crime, fantasy, poetry, as well as youth and teen books. The 40 participating local authors will be present to sell and sign copies of their works, offering attendees a chance to engage directly with the creators behind the pages.
Colleen Winter was one of the local author who participated in last year's market. She shared her excitement, saying, "Last year’s book market was a fantastic day and one of my favorite book events of the year. This year’s event promises to be even bigger, and I’m looking forward to meeting more local authors, discovering their books, and enjoying the company of other book lovers. It’s an absolutely great way to spend a day."
Beyond the opportunity for book enthusiasts to explore diverse literary works, the market serves as a platform for local authors to network with their peers. Additionally, Editors Barrie will be present, providing valuable insights to authors on getting their books into the hands of eager readers.
The event not only fosters community engagement but also nurtures the local literary ecosystem, providing a platform for burgeoning authors to showcase their creativity and connect with a broader audience.
Entry to the Local Author Book Market is free, welcoming all book enthusiasts, readers, and aspiring writers to immerse themselves in a day dedicated to celebrating the written word and supporting local talent.
So, mark your calendars and join in to celebrate the vibrant literary culture thriving within Barrie’s community.