Downtown Columbus skyline during the spring
Help Columbus remain on Condé Nast Traveler’s Best Cities list by voting daily through June 30, 2025.
Vote Now
Close Menu

Literary Columbus


Columbus is a literary paradise. Book-lovers swoon over stand-out events like the Columbus Book Festival, which draws over 40,000 attendees annually to the grounds of the Columbus Metropolitan Library, recently named among the 11 most beautiful libraries in the U.S. by Fodor's Travel.

Several famous authors—like Maggie Smith, Hanif Abdurraqib, and R. L. Stine, creator of the famed Goosebumps series—have called Columbus home. For those looking for their next new read, Columbus has 14+ independent bookstores to exploreeach with their own unique feel—like The Book Loft featuring 32 rooms of stories waiting to be uncovered.
 


July 12–13, 2025 | Columbus Metropolitan Library

Columbus Book Festival

Celebrating its third year, this festival brings together nationally recognized and local authors, and literary lovers of all kinds for a weekend of conversation and community. Featuring author talks, a vendor market and family-friendly activities, you won't want to miss this one-of-a-kind event.

September 2025 | Columbus Museum of Art

The Poetry Festival

A weekend full of poetry in Columbus? Yes! Celebrate Columbus' spoken word and poetry scene with live performances, workshops and poetry-inspired art experiences. Attend to hear voices from across the region who create space for reflection, expression and connection through the power of poetry.

Annually in May | State Library of Ohio

Ohioana Book Festival

A beloved celebration of Ohio authors featuring panel discussions, readings and book signings that connect readers with the minds behind their favorite stories. It's a dynamic showcase of the state's vibrant literary talent across genres and generations.



Stories & Spotlights

A Book Lover's Guide to Literary Columbus

Be inspired by local and national authors and explore the cozy nooks of independent bookstores in some of Columbus’ most charming, and upcoming neighborhoods. Thurber House, the boyhood home of author, humorist and former New Yorker cartoonist James


   

Explore Literary Landmarks

Close up of artwork with patrons in background at the Billy Ireland Cartoon Museum

Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum

1813 N High St.

Home to the world’s largest collection of cartoon and comic art, this museum celebrates the storytelling power of visual narratives through exhibitions, archives and artist retrospectives.

Columbus Library main branch exterior

Columbus Metropolitan Library

96 S. Grant Ave. 

A cornerstone of the city’s literary scene, the Main Library blends historic architecture with modern design and offers expansive resources, inspiring spaces and community-focused programming.

Exterior of Thurber House

Thurber House

77 Jefferson Ave.

Once the home of humorist James Thurber, this literary center and museum now hosts author events, residencies, and youth writing programs in a space that honors his legacy.

 



(Book)Mark your Calendar