The Arkansas Literary Festival kicked off last night with NPR’s The Book Guys taping two national radio programs at the Central Arkansas Library System in Little Rock’s River Market District.
It continues with a BBQ lunch (starting now) at the River Market pavillion headlined by “Dr. BBQ” (Roy Lampe). Author sessions begin this afternoon, and there is an Author’s Party tonight at the Junior League Building (tickets still available).
And the schedule is packed Saturday and Sunday with author sessions (featuring John Hope Franklin, Joe Klein, Garry Wills, and so many more), panel discussions, an expanded lineup of children’s activities (including the Children’s Breakfast at the Clinton Library; tickets still available), the Arkansas Times “Pub or Perish” readings at the Peabody Hotel’s Mallard Bar tomorrow night, and more. There is a festival atmosphere in the exhibitor area at the corner of Pres. Clinton Ave. and Commerce Street in the River Market, with music, food, etc.
Download the full program. Everything is FREE, except for the ticketed events. It’s the only book festival in the nation where all of the proceeds directly benefit efforts to improve literacy (through the Arkansas Literacy Councils). Support a good cause and have a great time.