Calling all book lovers — the L.A. Times Festival of Books is being held — and it’s coming up on its 31st year. Held at USC from April 18 to 19, the open event will welcome participants to engage in a variety of events, including author interviews, panels and book signings.
The festival is set to have over 500 participants and more than 100 panel conversations that are going to bring literary life to campus. Visitors can also purchase tickets to gain access to panel reservations, the Book Prize Awards ceremony, and various discounts, according to the USC website.
American actress Bellamy Young, best known for her role as “Mellie” on tv show Scandal, will be in attendance at the festival to discuss her new book “The Aethorion Code.”
In an interview with Annenberg Media, Young said she was excited about the upcoming festival and her panel, called “Another World is Out There: Fantastical Realms in YA Literature.”
“I always nerd out at these events by feeling very grateful to listen more than speak, because I’m always really inspired by the company, not just the writers and the panelists, but just like-minded readers,” Young said. “I want them to come in with and leave with their joy of reading.”
Young’s panel will take place on Saturday — the same day that actresses Sarah Jessica Parker and Alexandra Olivia will also be coming to campus to discuss Olivia’s new novel, “The Radiant Dark.”
Legendary musician Lionel Richie is also set to come to USC for a conversation with L.A. Times pop music critic Mikael Woods Sunday. Richie will be discussing his 2025 memoir, “Truly,” which chronicles his career and life.
Guests themselves will also be given the tools to create, with 3D printers, sewing machines and design materials open for use at the L.A. Public Library’s (LAPL) Octavia Lab tent.
“We bring the best of LAPL,” said Katherine Martinez-Santos, L.A. Librarian. “If we put it forward and we create programs, bring information or bring activities that will help the young ones with the little ones, engage and try to make a positive connection.”
For those looking for something different, the USC Stage located at Hahn Central Plaza will be the spot to see live musical performances from a variety of artists, including USC’s own marching band and Mariachi Los Troyanos de USC, who are both set to perform on Saturday.
“The performances are a good factor [for] bringing in students. Especially since finals are coming up,” said Cielo Castellalaeios, USC freshman and biochemistry student.
For the full list of events and things to do, visitors can refer to the L.A. Times websites.