The countdown is on for one of the best book festivals in the state, Austin Teen Book Festival. Completely FREE for it’s guests and boasting more than 30 authors the event is heavily attended, well organized and an exhilarating opportunity to meet fellow books lovers and authors.
Books are available for purchase at the convention center on the day of the event. If you know which titles you’re interested in purchasing, lines are usually the shortest at the beginning of the day. You are permitted to bring 3 personal books from home for every one book that you buy on site. A great resource for books is Paper Back Book Swap. On the site you list books that you are willing to mail to other members who request the titles from you. In exchange you may browse the huge book inventory and have books sent to you. The only cost involved is your own expense when shipping books out.
Because of the size and scope of the event people come into Austin from all around the state and country. Hotels can be costly and crowded but there are other safe, clean and inexpensive places to stay. Check out sites like VRBO, Home Away, or Trip Advisor to find condos and homes for rent. You can see multiple pictures of the property and often will have access to free parking and a kitchen at a lower cost than a hotel rental.
Finally there is a parking structure attached to the convention center. Although it is convenient it can get backlogged so be sure to figure in a few extra minutes to park and walk to the center.
Keep an eye on my blog over the next few weeks as I share blog entries about the authors attending ATBF and I hope to see you there!
HipMamaJenn 