As the largest and most prestigious book festival in the country, this event has attracted more than 130,000 book lovers each year to UCLA. At USC, it will feature 400 authors and some 300 exhibitor booths, a nonstop schedule of readings, book signings, Q&As, literary discussions and panels, writing workshops, storytelling, comedy and more. Live entertainment will take place on eight stages,... [read more]

As the largest and most prestigious book festival in the country, this event has attracted more than 130,000 book lovers each year to UCLA. At USC, it will feature 400 authors and some 300 exhibitor booths, a nonstop schedule of readings, book signings, Q&As, literary discussions and panels, writing workshops, storytelling, comedy and more. Live entertainment will take place on eight stages, including a children’s stage, a cooking stage, a poetry stage, a Los Angeles Times stage and two USC stages.
"Our goal is to mobilize our students, our faculty and staff, our alumni and parents to attend this event,” Nikias said. “We want to bring 150,000 people to our campus. We want this weekend to be successful on every level."
After 15 years in Westwood, the festival is moving to University Park because it “allows for increased attendance due to USC’s central location, proximity to public transportation, abundant parking and newly enhanced campus facilities,” according to the Sept. 22 Times article announcing the change of venue.
Located along the city’s arts and education corridor, the University Park campus allows for collaboration with other downtown cultural institutions and is easily accessible for a greater number of Angelenos representing a greater diversity of ethnicities. Some other practical advantages over Westwood include more usable space for sponsors and exhibitors; better sampling, pouring and concession opportunities; more public transportation routes and options; and more restrooms and dining options.
As Times publisher Eddy Hartenstein said when the move was announced: "Attendees and exhibitors can expect more to see, do and experience in addition to great access and a refreshing change of scenery."

The Los Angeles Times selects the authors and books to be featured in the festival. A 17-person USC Academic Advisory Committee also made recommendations to Maret Orliss, the festival’s programming manager. Genres range from poetry to mystery, politics, young adult, comic book, graphic novel, manga and much more.
While much of the festival planning and programming is managed by the Los Angeles Times, USC organizers said there are numerous opportunities for USC departments to be involved.