Southwest Florida Reading Festival Returns March 7 With Free Books, Author Lineup

The 27th annual Southwest Florida Reading Festival happens March 7 at the Fort Myers Regional Library. More than two dozen authors will participate in the free event, which runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The outdoor gathering at 2450 First St. draws thousands of readers each year. Attendees will meet writers, hear stories from behind the scenes, and get books signed. It's a chance for book lovers to connect with the people who create the stories they love.

This year's lineup includes Wally Lamb and Brad Thor. Other authors taking part are Sarah Pekkanen, Kristen Harmel, and Lisa Wingate. 

Youth authors will include Dan Gutman, creator of the Rappy the Raptor and My Weird School series. Husband-and-wife creators Trisha Speed Shaskan and Stephen Shaskan will also be there. Kids can meet the people who bring their favorite characters to life.

"I have been a part of this festival since the very first event, and I love how it continues to grow and change to reach our community in new ways," said Mindi Simon, Lee County's library director, according to News-Press.

Every child and teen who attends will get a free book. The Suncoast Credit Union Foundation gave a $100,000 gift to fund the giveaway program.

The foundation supports education and improves the health and emotional well-being of children. Each time a Suncoast member uses their debit or credit card, the credit union donates four cents to fund local initiatives. 

"Since 1990, the foundation has raised and donated more than $55 million, and we cannot imagine a better use of funds than a festival that celebrates the joy and importance of reading," said Jeff Kunberger, the foundation's executive director.

The festival was created to celebrate the power of reading and to promote literacy and library services. Activities will include author presentations, book signings, arts and crafts, and library technology demonstrations. 

An Evening with the Authors will be held on March 6 at the Burroughs Home and Gardens. The fundraiser will offer a chance to meet and mingle with the authors as part of a dining experience. A silent auction will feature island getaways and theme park tickets. It's a more intimate setting before the big day.

The full list of authors is available on the festival's mobile app, SWFL Read Fest, or on the Southwest Florida Reading Festival website.