Southern Festival Of Books

The Heard Libraries, in collaboration with key university partners, are making 2026–27 the Year to Unplug—a sustained, institution-wide effort to cultivate a campus culture of reading, reflection and community. Read More

The Jean and Alexander Heard Libraries will celebrate the conversations that arise from books, reading and the exchange of ideas when they host a series of talks on Vanderbilt University’s campus this fall featuring prominent authors. Read More

Humanities Tennessee, in partnership with Vanderbilt University, has announced exciting updates to the initial author lineup for the 2026 Southern Festival of Books. Read More

Celebrated author Barbara Kingsolver, who has written numerous bestselling novels, including the Pulitzer Prize-winning "Demon Copperhead," will discuss her latest book, "Partita," on Sunday, Oct. 11, at Vanderbilt University. Read More

Humanities Tennessee, in partnership with Vanderbilt University, announced the initial lineup of award-winning, bestselling authors who will headline the free 38th Annual Southern Festival of Books, taking place Oct. 17–18 at the Bicentennial Capitol Mall, the Tennessee State Museum and the Tennessee State Library and Archives. Read More

Former first lady of the United States Jill Biden will discuss her new memoir, "View from the East Wing," on Monday, June 8, at Vanderbilt University. Read More

Collaboration, community and love for the written word were celebrated at the 2025 Southern Festival of Books, presented by Vanderbilt University in partnership with Humanities Tennessee Oct. 18–19 in downtown Nashville. Read More

The 2025 Southern Festival of Books, presented by Vanderbilt University in partnership with Humanities Tennessee Oct. 18–19, will connect faculty, students, alumni and others with university ties to a vast community that shares their love for creative expression. Read More