JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – More than 120 authors will gather at the Jacksonville Public Library’s Main Library on Saturday, Sept. 19, for Jax Book Fest 2026, a free event featuring author talks, book signings and activities for readers of all ages.
The festival runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Main Library, 303 N. Laura St. in Downtown Jacksonville.
This year’s featured guests include three New York Times bestselling authors: John Patrick Green, creator of the “InvestiGators” graphic novel series; Jennifer Lynn Barnes, author of “The Inheritance Games” series; and Emma Straub, whose novels include “This Time Tomorrow” and “All Adults Here.”
More than 120 local authors also are expected to participate, selling and signing their books throughout the library’s Conference Center and first two floors.
The day begins with a free book giveaway for children and teens aboard the River City Readers Bookmobile from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. outside the library’s main entrance.
Other activities include face painting, book bedazzling, a photo booth, a LaVilla student writer showcase and a zine-making activity for teens. Young readers can also meet Mango and Brash, characters from Green’s “InvestiGators” series.
Green will kick off the featured author programs with a Junior Lit Chat at 10 a.m. on the library’s second floor. A book signing will follow from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. in the Children’s Library.
Barnes will take part in a Teen Lit Chat beginning at noon in Hicks Auditorium. The program will include an interview and audience questions, followed by a book signing from 1 to 2 p.m.
Straub will close out the featured conversations with a Lit Chat at 3 p.m. in Hicks Auditorium. She will be interviewed by Hurley Winkler before taking questions from the audience. A signing is scheduled from 4 to 5 p.m.
Admission to Jax Book Fest is free. Walk-ins are permitted for the Lit Chat programs as space allows, but the library recommends advance registration. A Jacksonville Public Library card is required to preregister.
Jax Book Fest schedule and registration
Books from the featured authors will be available for purchase during the festival, and attendees may bring their own copies to be signed.
Street parking in Downtown Jacksonville is free on Saturdays. Paid parking is available at the garage at 33 W. Duval St., adjacent to the Main Library.