Poughkeepsie Children’s Book Festival Returns

POUGHKEEPSIE – The Poughkeepsie Children’s Book Festival, scheduled for Saturday, March 28, at Dutchess Community College, will have over 100 authors and illustrators of children’s and young reader books. From 10 am to 3 pm, readers can find books of all types – storybooks, chapter books, picture books, and graphic novels, both fiction and non-fiction. There will be opportunities to buy new books and get autographs. “It connects our Poughkeepsie kids with the creators behind their favorite stories through personal author meetings and it ignites a passion for reading,” said John Turro, Head of Youth Services for the Poughkeepsie Public Library District (PPLD).

The book festival, organized by PPLD, is an opportunity for children to find a deeper connection with books, and for the authors to make a personal connection with their readers. “My favorite thing about Book Fest is meeting young readers who share my enthusiasm for books and animals, my two passions,” said Nancy Furstinger, author of Catskill Creatures. “Readers chat about their pets and which books they can’t wait to read to them. I only wish I had that opportunity when I first learned to read!”

And excitement about reading is what the festival is all about! Children and parents will be surrounded by different genres and types of books, offering exposure to new authors and series. Being surrounded by so many different types of genres and books can help stories come alive for children. “When communities and libraries work together to promote literacy, it’s a win for all involved,” said Nancy Viau, author of Hanging Out with Gram.

“From the smiling young faces that light up upon meeting an author or spying a favorite book, to the fun activities that surround the festival, it’s a delightful, unforgettable day.”
The interaction between reader and writer or illustrator is rewarding for both. “I feel that the festival is important because it offers an opportunity to the public, especially the readers, to meet their favorite authors and illustrators and get to ask questions about their books,” said Daniel Mahoney, author of My Cat is a Secret Agent. “This kind of connection is so valuable and necessary!”

Some of your favorite book characters will be there, such as Biscuit, Paddington, Bad Kitty, and Red Crayon. “I love how the Poughkeepsie Book Festival makes books come alive for children in so many ways,” said Megan Litwin, author of Twinkle, Twinkle, Winter Night. “I was honestly over the moon myself to get a photo with Elephant and Piggie last year! The whole day buzzes with joy.”

In addition, Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), will be helping to put on a great festival!

Special thanks to the Friends of PPLD for sponsoring free Book Vouchers, which will be available to visitors at the Book Festival aged 17 or younger. Each child may receive one voucher, which is valued at $15. Some restrictions apply.

The book festival is an annual event held by the Poughkeepsie Public Library District. This is a free event, open to the public from 10 am – 3 pm. The festival will take place in Falcon Hall at Dutchess Community College, Poughkeepsie, New York. Parking will be available in Lot D at 95 Cottage Road, Poughkeepsie. Meet over 100 authors, illustrators, and characters, browse books for sale, and enjoy costumed characters! This is a free family event geared to children ages 17 and under, no registration is required. Visit poklib.org for more information.