What is BOOKMARKS?

We're a nonprofit organization which delivers literary experiences celebrating books and authors throughout the year. This is accomplished through:

• A free annual one-day street book festival featuring readings, discussions, book signings, workshops, storytelling, demonstrations, and performances with more than 40 authors, illustrators, and chefs representing all genres. Reading-related exhibitors and food vendors, a Young Readers Central Area, and an onsite bookstore selling featured authors’ books are also included. Save the date of Saturday, September 8, 2012. The festival takes place in the Downtown Arts District on Sixth and Trade Streets.
• Author visits with school children, book clubs, retirement homes, and other organizations in the weeks surrounding the festival and throughout the year.
• Each year, the “Conversation with” Series presents nationally and internationally recognized bestselling authors.

BOOKMARKS, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, founded in 2004, initiated, organized, and presented seven book festivals, collectively featuring more than 375 authors, with a festival attendance of 7,000 in 2011. Thanks to partnerships and collaborations in the past seven years, authors have met in classroom settings with over 14,000 young readers – ranging from three-years-old to college age – to highlight the importance of reading.  Our “Conversation with” Series has presented eleven authors to date.

BOOKMARKS' mission is to engage and inspire readers and writers of all ages, champion literacy, promote cultural diversity through reading, and offer enrichment and education through literary experiences celebrating books and authors.

Praise for BOOKMARKS from Visiting Authors

“It was a fabulous event!  I honestly can't think of a thing you should change.” – Lisa See

“The actual festival day seemed to happen without a hitch…I was able to spend the whole day talking about books and writing, and what could be better!  It was great fun introducing people to my stories and meeting those who had already read them.” – Jamie Gilson

“It was the best run, most flawless, well executed festival I've participated in.”  – Vanessa Woods

“I had a great time speaking with the students at North Forsyth High. I always enjoy school visits and getting to hear from the teens about what they think about writing and what kinds of books they enjoy. I also enjoyed the festival very much! Everyone I met involved with the festival was so friendly and helpful, and I had a great stay in Winston-Salem. Thank you again!” – Shana Norris

“Congratulations on a huge success at BOOKMARKS!  What a day!   I can't thank you enough for making me a part of it.  And the volunteers were AMAZING! Thanks again for including me in such a wonderful event.” –  Cameron Kent

“I was so glad to be able to participate in such a world-class event--you and your tremendous team did everything right. All of the hard work paid off.” – Alice Osborn