CULLMAN, Ala. – Book lovers can meet dozens of authors, find new books and support local writers at the Cullman Author Expo on Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Traditions Bank Event Center. The Cullman County Public Library System is hosting the free event, with sponsorship from Traditions Bank.
There will be 37 authors from across Alabama, covering genres like children’s books, science fiction, romance, mystery, poetry and self-help.
Cullman County Public Library System Assistant Director Shelby Creekmore said the idea for the expo came from the success of a similar event held by the Friends of the Public Libraries of Cullman County a few years ago.
She said, “Many patrons and authors have asked about that event since then, which prompted us to plan it again.”
Library officials teamed up with Traditions Bank to help grow the event. Traditions Bank agreed to sponsor the expo and offer its event center for the day. Visitors can meet authors, talk about their books and buy copies directly from them. Organizers decided not to charge admission so more people can come and support the authors.
“We want to support local authors in our community, and we believe this is a great way to meet that need and expose readers to new and local material,” Creekmore said.
Besides meeting authors and shopping for books, guests can join in on “Bookish BINGO.” Everyone gets a bingo card to check off the authors they meet. If you fill your card, you can trade it in for raffle tickets and have a chance to win book-themed prize baskets. Some of these prizes are sponsored by the authors themselves.
Creekmore said the expo gives independent authors a chance to meet readers, network and share their work. Organizers hope this event will become a regular tradition in Cullman.
“We have so many local authors who love meeting their readers, and we want to support them,” Creekmore said. “The Cullman library’s mission is to make connections in our community and provide opportunities for growth, discovery and inspiration.”
The Traditions Bank Event Center is located at 301 First St. SW in Cullman. The event is free and everyone is welcome.
