Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a specific question that is not listed below, please email your question to the American Writers Festival at general@americanwritersmuseum.org.

When is the American Writers Festival?

The Festival is on Sunday, May 19, 2024. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. CT and the first program begins at 12:00 p.m. CT. Programs end at 5:00 p.m. CT.

Where does the American Writers Festival take place?

Harold Washington Library Center
400 S. State Street
Chicago, IL 60605

Get Directions

How can I get involved with the Festival?

Volunteer applications for the 2024 American Writers Festival have now closed. If you would like to apply to volunteer at the American Writers Museum, please visit our volunteer page.

Where can I see the schedule?

The full lineup is here! And the schedule is here! All programs take place in person, no livestreaming. Author signing times are listed within each individual program.

Do I need tickets? If I sign up for updates, does that guarantee me a seat?

The American Writers Festival is free and open to the public. It is first come, first served. No tickets are required. When you register for updates, this does not guarantee you admission to any program.

Will Festival events be livestreamed as well?

Festival programs will not be livestreamed, but select programs will be recorded and made available to watch later on the AWM’s YouTube channel. Subscribe to be notified when new videos are added.

Will books be available to purchase?

Books will be sold by Seminary Co-op Bookstores, the exclusive bookselling partner of the Festival. Select books by writers featured in the Festival will be available.

Will writers be signing books?

Signings will be determined based on the writers’ availability on the day of the Festival. Some writers may pre-sign books for purchase. Writers’ signing time will be limited, so please limit the number of books to sign to no more than three per person.

How do I become a sponsor of the Festival? What are sponsor benefits?

Find more information on sponsoring the Festival here. Email Director of Development Linda Dunlavy at dunlavy@americanwritersmuseum.org with any questions.

Can I suggest a writer to feature at the festival?

Our programming for the festival is limited and we already have a very full schedule in the works, so we are not accepting further proposals at this time. However, we will be surveying attendees and look forward to your input for future programming. For local author events we encourage you to reach out to your community’s independent bookstore or nearby public library.

Can I bring children?

Children are welcome at the Festival, and some of the programming will focus on children’s and young adult authors. See the schedule here.

Will there be Festival merchandise for sale?

Commemorative Festival tote bags will be available for purchase. Which is great for all the books you’ll get when you’re there!

Will there be food and drinks for sale?

No, there will not be food vendors on-site, but there are plenty of dining options nearby. Discover where to eat and drink in the Loop here.

How do I get to the Harold Washington Library Center and the American Writers Museum?

The Harold Washington Library Center is located at 400 South State Street, Chicago, IL 60605. The American Writers Museum is located at 180 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60601. The Museum is on the second floor of this building.

How do I get to the Harold Washington Library Center?

Plan your travel here.

Where can I park if I am driving to the Festival?

View parking facilities within convenient walking distance of Harold Washington Library Center.

Are there hotels nearby?

The Festival takes place in downtown Chicago within walking distance to many hotels. Explore hotel options here.

How can I cover the Festival?

Thank you for your interest in covering the American Writers Festival. For all media inquiries and coordination on site the day of the Festival, please contact us at general@americanwritersmuseum.org.

Please be aware that when you visit, there will be staff on site capturing images, video, and sound recordings to be used for commercial purposes. By entering the facility, persons consent and agree to the following: Images or likeness photographs and video can be used for any purpose including, but not limited to, publications, web pages, videos, brochures, and advertisements.