Written by Dek S., Kathleen W. and Polina R., Adult Services
We’re excited to host the fourth annual Indie Author Fest, where we invite the thriving Bay Area indie author landscape to our libraries. Every year, we bring together indie authors and readers to connect and celebrate storytellers from San Mateo County, the Bay Area and beyond.
Join us on Saturday, October 17, from 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM, at the Millbrae Library—back to where it all started—for engaging dialogues and community building.
This event is free and open to all who love writing, reading books, indie authors or are overall just fans of libraries! There’s no ticket requirement, just an inspiring community and plenty of opportunities for library "shelfies."
Book Fair at the Library Community Room
Indie Author Book Market | 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
We’re getting bigger, better and featuring our largest gathering of writers yet. Forty authors from across the Bay Area will join us to share their creations. Discover new voices, travel to new worlds and dive into immeasurable adventures. You might just find your new favorite story or the next big Hollywood blockbuster.
Don’t forget to stop by the San Mateo County Libraries table for more info and resources that empower the independent publishing industry, like Biblioboard, Pressbooks and Indie Author Project.
Publishing Talks at the Chetcuti Room
Paths to Publication With Agent Anna Ghosh | 10:00-11:30 AM
During this session, we'll provide an overview of the current publishing ecosystem. Learn about how literary agents work, the publishing process and explore the different paths to publication.
Publishing for a Cause With Raya Rahman | 12:45-1:45 PM
The presentation will take audiences behind the scenes of developing, publishing and marketing inclusive storybooks for children, from identifying an unmet need to turning that need into a publishing mission.
Are you an indie author wondering how to find your creative community and build a sustainable writing life in the Bay Area? Do you wonder how to balance the solitary act of writing with the varied steps toward connecting with readers?
You're not alone!
Bring all your writing and publishing questions to this round table. Join the Bay Area’s own indie authors, Millie Abecassis, Elle M. Stewart and Lyzette Wanzer to learn more about writing, resources and community.
Speed Friending at the Library Lounge Room
Ink and Accountability: Author Speed Matching | 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM
Networking as a writer can feel daunting. That’s why we built Author Speed Matching—a 45-minute, warm, low-pressure exchange designed to help authors find a genuine connection. No forced pitches, just 45 minutes of good writers supporting writers.
Grow Your Craft, Find Your Community
How will you energize your writing journey this year? Let us know which Indie Author Fest you're most excited about in the comments below.
Add a comment to: Publishing Independently Together: Join Us for Indie Author Fest