Huntington Beach Public Library is excited to host its first Surf City Author Fest this year on May 9, 2026 at Central Library from 10am to 4pm. The festival will include a free outdoor book fair at Central Library and a discussion panel of authors of books for adults and children in our Library Theater.  

About the Event 

An outdoor book fair where authors can connect with the community, sell and talk about their books, and build relationships with new readers. Booths will be provided in front of Central Library for authors to display their books, and there will be 2 author discussion panels in the Library Theater. 

Interest Form Applications 

We're now accepting applications from local authors interested in participating in this year's festival. Complete the interest form by February 15^th, 2026.  

Eligibility and Acceptance 

A total of 26 authors will be selected to participate in our book fair. If selected, you will receive confirmation of your acceptance by March 15^th. 

Author Discussion Panel 

We will also be selecting 6 authors to participate in two separate discussion panels. If you have a topic in mind you’d like to suggest, please include it when you fill out the interest form.  

What's Provided 

Participating authors will be provided with a table to display, sign, and sell their books, and select authors will also be invited to present on a panel discussion. Authors are responsible for bringing and selling their own books, decorating their displays, and bringing their own EZUPS or umbrellas for the outdoor book fair. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to library@hbpl.org.