FAQ

  • The festival will take place over three days:

    • Friday, March 27 from 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM

    • Saturday, March 28 from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

    • Sunday, March 29 from 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Read Freely Fest will be held inside and outside at Richland Library’s Main location, 1431 Assembly Street, Columbia, SC 29201.

  • Good news—it’s totally free!

  • Nope, you don’t need a library card. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun at all the festival events!

  • A variety of food trucks will be on-site during the festival. Plus, a host of restaurants in the Vista and Main Street District are just a short walk away.

  • We strive to make our events accessible to all. All headliner author talks will include ASL interpreters.

    We will also have a dedicated Sensory Space in Meeting Room A on the second level for anyone who needs a break from the excitement. KultureCity Sensory Bags—equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, and other supportive tools—will be available for use during the festival.

    To request an ADA accommodation, please complete this form at least two weeks before the event.

  • Downtown Columbia will be buzzing, so give yourself extra time for parking and entry. Arrive early to make the most of the fun and stay on schedule!

  • You can purchase copies of the authors’ books from our official festival bookseller, All Good Books, throughout the weekend.

  • Most authors will be available for book signings following their panel or talk on the first level of Richland Library Main. Look for signs and festival staff, who will help guide you.

    Signing lines open when the panel begins, and signings start right after the session wraps, typically lasting about an hour.

    To help everyone move through the line:
    • Bring no more than 4 books per author
    • Use staff-provided sticky notes for personalization
    • Have your phone ready to hand to staff for photos

    Many of our headliners appear on more than one panel, so you may have more than one opportunity to get your books signed.

  • Absolutely! Authors love seeing well-loved books, feel free to bring your personal copy for a signature.

  • No tickets are required! Read Freely Fest is a free event open to the public, including all author talks and panels. Space is limited for each session, so we recommend arriving early to secure your spot.

  • Media members interested in covering the Read Freely Fest are encouraged to reach out to us at media@readfreelyfest.com for inquiries, press materials, and interview opportunities. We look forward to working with you!

  • Yes! On the Garden Level, you’ll find a lineup of family-friendly activities happening both Saturday and Sunday—including musical storytime, crafts, and more. Please note: Friday night’s kickoff party, Overdue, is 18+ only.

  • We love connecting with bookish creators who are excited about the festival. If you’re interested in partnering with us for Read Freely Fest 2027, please complete our interest form here.