In Brief

Washington, D.C. readers and families are gathering on September 6 for the free 25th National Book Festival at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, featuring 90+ authors, STEM and children’s programming, and more.

Key Points

  • 25th annual National Book Festival held September 6, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
  • Hosted at Walter E. Washington Convention Center, open 9 a.m.–8 p.m. (doors at 8:30 a.m.)
  • Features 90+ authors across genres, STEM activities, storytelling, and expert talks
  • Free to the public, with livestream and video options for remote audiences
  • Organized by the Library of Congress, celebrating a quarter-century of literary outreach

Washington, D.C. (September 6, 2025) – The Library of Congress is hosting the 25th annual National Book Festival today at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, welcoming more than 90 authors, poets, and illustrators for a day of talks, readings, and family-friendly programming from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. (doors open at 8:30 a.m.) The NewsMarketThe Library of Congress.

Context and Background

Launched in 2001 by First Lady Laura Bush and Librarian James H. Billington, the National Book Festival has grown into one of the premier literary gatherings in the United States. In its silver-jubilee year, organizers have expanded the footprint at the convention center to accommodate growing audiences and a diverse schedule of events. Washington DCThe NewsMarketThe Library of Congress

This year’s event includes readings, panels, workshops, interactive STEM displays, and stalls run by the official bookseller Politics and Prose, plus exclusive festival merchandise. The Library of CongressThe Library of Congress

Quotations

“We are thrilled to announce plans are set to celebrate the National Book Festival’s 25th anniversary in September 2025,” said Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden. The NewsMarket

What’s Confirmed vs. Expected

Confirmed:

  • The festival runs today, September 6, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with free public admission. The NewsMarket

  • More than 90 authors will appear across genres—from picture books to adult nonfiction. The Library of CongressThe NewsMarket

  • The event includes STEM-inspired zones, family-friendly activities, storytelling sessions, and expert presentations. The Library of Congress

  • Remote audiences can join via livestream, and recordings will be made available shortly after. The Library of Congress+1

    • Expected: Attendees may also participate in book signings, visit themed lounges, purchase festival collectibles, and explore the “Roadmap to Reading” exhibits, although final details may vary throughout the day. The Library of CongressThe Library of Congress

    Conclusion and Next Steps

    As the festival progresses, literary fans, families, educators, and teens can look forward to a full lineup of readings, workshops, and panels running throughout the day. For visitors attending in person, expect enhanced security, ample dining options, and a variety of interactive zones to explore. The Library of Congress

    For those at home, livestream access ensures you won’t miss key sessions, and videos will be posted for on-demand viewing. Whether you’re immersed in the convention energy or following online, today marks a significant milestone in celebrating America's love of books—and there's plenty more to discover as the festival unfolds.

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