Greater Austin Book Fest

A vibrant celebration of local authors, illustrators, and readers!

Submissions are open for local authors to participate in the Greater Austin Book Festival (GAB Fest) on April 26th. Authors currently based in Travis, Williamson, or Hays County will join us to table, sell their books, and meet readers.

Applications will be received until 4 p.m. on December 31

Greater Austin Book Fest 2025 Application

GAB Fest provides a valuable opportunity for authors, illustrators, and readers from Hays, Williamson, and Travis Counties to establish meaningful connections and engage with their community.

This event fosters an environment of inclusivity, encouraging individuals to come together and celebrate their appreciation for literature.

Meet participating authors, get your books signed, shop with local booksellers, explore the Central Library, and enjoy a full day of panels, workshops, and programs.

When do applications open?
Apply to participate in the Greater Austin Book Fest. Applications will be received from October 15 – December 31.

What are the application requirements?
The applicant will be required to answer a series of short questions and:

Submit Your County of Residence, please note that authors must live in Travis, Williams, and/or Hays County.
Submit a Bibliography of Published Books
Submit a writing sample of at least 2000 words or the first two chapters of a recently published book. Those who create graphic novels or picture books will be asked to submit a two-page spread.

Who do I contact for more information about the Greater Austin Book Fest Program?

For more information about the Greater Austin Book Fest program, please email APL.Bookfest@austintexas.gov.

GAB Fest Eligibility

GAB Fest Eligibility link

To be eligible, you must answer “Yes” to all of the following:

I reside in Travis, Williams, or Hays County
I am self-published, published by an independent publishing house, and/or published material through traditional publication means.
I am willing to meet with fellow authors from the local area and interact with readers as well as interact with my local Austin Central Library!

Authors who are self-published and/or published by an independent press are encouraged to apply. Authors must reside in Travis, Williams, or Hays County.

GAB Fest Application Frequently Asked Questions

GAB Fest Application Frequently Asked Questions link

Review process:

What is the application timeline?
A public call for applications will be launched on October 15, 2024. Applications will be received until 4 p.m. on December 31.

Eligibility:

Will self-published works be considered?
Yes, work that is self-published and/or published with independent publishing companies will be considered. Authors who have published through traditional publishers and/or curators will also be considered.

Will published authors under the age of 18 be considered?
Yes, published authors under the age of 18 will be considered!

GAB Fest Reception Program Details
Authors will have the option to attend our Greater Austin Book Festival Author Reception on the evening of April 25, 2025. More details soon to come!

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