Connect With Writers and Readers at Indie Author Fest 2024

Written By: Kathleen W. with Adult Services

San Mateo County Libraries is thrilled to present our second annual Indie Author Fest, a day packed with indie author readings, book signings, community building and more. Join us on Saturday, September 28, from 11:30 AM - 4:30 PM, in the Foster City Community Center, just above the Foster City Library. Doors open at 11:15 AM.

This all-ages event is for voracious readers, aspiring writers, publishing hopefuls and seasoned authors alike. You’re invited to explore books by indie authors, listen to inspiring readings and celebrate local literary talent!

Limited quantities of free giveaway books will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. This free event is presented in partnership with the Foster City Community Center. No ticket or registration is required, just your love for literature and Bay Area authors!

What Does This Year Have in Store?

11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

The Road to Publishing, a Presentation by Samantha Rajaram, opens a new window

What is a query letter? Why do you need one? In this workshop, you will learn about query letters and how to write one to send to prospective literary agents. This is a good introduction for aspiring writers and anyone interested in the process of becoming a traditionally published author. Brief Q&A to follow.

Samantha Rajaram is the author of the historical fiction novel The Company Daughters, a 2021 Golden Crown Literary Society winner for debut fiction and a finalist for the 2021 Bisexual Book Awards. Her novel was also longlisted for the Historical Writer's Association (HWA) award.

12:30–4:30 PM

Wind Room: Indie Author Book Fair

Discover exciting new books by local authors!

After you pick up your next read, check out library writer resources, have fun with the photo booth and connect with local chapters of Horror Writers Association, Mystery Writers of America, Women Who Submit and more.

Port Room: Literary Readings

Hear energizing presentations of fiction, non-fiction and poetry.

There will be three reading sessions, each featuring six incredible writers working in a range of genres and styles. More details to come!

Patio: Literary Advice Office Hours

Wondering how to start a literary magazine? Curious about reading series, writing conferences and good literary citizenship? Or maybe you’re looking advice on craft, drafts and building the confidence to submit.

Local literary experts are here to help! Sign up or drop-in for a 5-10 minute-session to ask your most burning writing questions and receive one-on-one advice from:

- - Miah Jeffra, opens a new window, multi-genre author of several award-winning books, lecturer at Santa Clara University and founder of queer and trans literary collaborative Foglifter Press, opens a new window.
  - Sabina Khan-Ibarra, opens a new window, writer, poet, teacher and director of Rooted and Written, opens a new window, the Bay Area’s tuition-free writers conference for people of color.
  - Jennifer Lewis, opens a new window award-winning writer, editor and publisher of Red Light Lit, opens a new window, as well as a teacher at The Writing Salon in San Francisco.

Which Indie Authors Can I Hope to See?

This year, Indie Author Fest features readings and book sales from:

Babylon Salon
Lauren C. Johnson

Horror Writers Association SF Bay Area
Debra Castaneda
T.E. MacArthur

Mystery Writers of America NorCal
Ellen Kirschman
Margaret Lucke

Women Who Submit Bay Area
Gloria Strohm

And...
Rocky Barilla
Michelle Carter, opens a new window
Bart A. Charlow
D.Z. Church
Janet Dawson
Frauke Galia
Eric Gray
Pragya Jain
Carol Jameson
Paul Kiritsis
Steve Latner
Murli Melwani
Priya Pasumarthy
Ava Marie Romero
Len Sone
Tiffany Trieu
Dennis Venturoni
Clara Ward
Lin Xinye
David Wolf

Testimonies from Indie Author Fest

“It was a memorable and fulfilling experience for me to meet and interact with so many fellow writers.”

“A fascinating collection of diverse writers from our region.”

“A joyful, productive day.”

“I observed readers connecting with authors and poets that were new to them and walking away with their arms full of books to discover. I witnessed authors connecting with writing groups and learning more about their work. I saw countless connections among authors, sharing their passion and what they have learned through their independent publishing journeys. Personally, I also felt connected to the words shared during the readings, by poets and authors, through their very personal, and yet universal stories of love, death, nature, memory and loss.” — Mary Abler, Deputy Director for San Mateo County Libraries

We are so excited for this year's Indie Author Fest, and can’t wait to see you there!