This was my second year as an author at Eat Local Read Local, Loudoun County’s annual local author book fair. The October weather was lovely (warm in the sun!), and I was in good company with over 70 local authors, including some I’ve gotten to know better through previous events.
Two author friends were conveniently located near me: J. Denison Reed and Austin Shirey. You can visit LCPL’s event site to see all of the authors who were there: Eat Local Read Local.
While the turnout was a little quieter than last year, I enjoyed talking with many new (to me) readers. I also had a chance to talk to some aspiring authors and share some writing and publishing tips.
Support Public Libraries
This annual event supports local authors, which is just another way public libraries support communities. Public libraries are one of the few spaces that are open to everyone, offering a wealth of knowledge and entertainment. You can borrow books to enhance your education or foster your imagination. Most libraries also offer newspapers, magazines, movies, and more.
Our Loudoun County Public Libraries also offer makerspaces where you can expand your skills for hobbies or to launch a small business. These makerspaces include soundproof studios and equipment for audio recording, 3D printers, heat presses, sewing machines, vinyl cutters, laminators, digitization equipment, and more.
Public libraries support our communities, and they need our support, too. There are several things you can do to show up for public libraries. First, get involved. Sign up for a library card, take part in library events, and spread information about events online and to your friends.
To protect funding for public libraries, speak up by calling or emailing your representatives in Congress. You can find more information through the American Library Association.
Support Local Authors
In talking with both shoppers and fellow authors, it’s clear that our current economy is affecting book sales. Money is tight, and many are concerned about the future. Several shoppers asked about ebooks, which often cost less than paperbacks or hardbacks. Nearly all of my books are available in both ebook and print editions.
If you’ve already read a local author’s books, please write reviews on Amazon, Goodreads, or wherever you buy books. Good book reviews help visibility in searches and book lists, and encourage other readers to give them a try. When holiday shopping, you can also buy books you’ve enjoyed to give as gifts.
Closing Out 2025
Eat Local Read Local was my last planned book event for 2025. I’ve started setting up events for 2026 and am looking forward to having more chances to meet local readers. In the meantime, you can buy my books through many online retailers. If you’d like signed copies of my books, please use this form: contact me. I’m happy to mail books, though this does include a shipping fee.
Please continue to check back here and through my socials to find out about my upcoming events. Thank you for your support!