Library customers can stock up on books by local authors at Bookstock and Bookstock Jr. 2013, annual events at the Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library (3030 Poplar Avenue) for local writers – young and old – to showcase their published work in a family-fun setting. This year’s event is set for Saturday, October 5, 2013, 10:30 am – 3:30 pm, and Central Intelligence agent and analyst Philip Mudd will be the guest speaker.

“There are so many Memphis-area authors. Everyone has a story, and anyone can publish a book either by well-known publishers or self-publishing,” said Adults Services Coordinator and event organizer Wang-Ying Glasgow. “Bookstock gives local authors a platform and publicity. It is a chance for them to promote and sell their books.”

Young authors are encouraged to participate in Bookstock Jr., designed for youthful writers who have published work. “Bookstock Jr. provides activities for children, teens, and families during the regular Bookstock event,” explained Mary Seratt, coordinator of Library youth services. “Our hope is to inspire children and teens to think of books as awesome and writing as a possibility.”

Bookstock and Bookstock Jr. will offer customers a fun and festive environment with food trucks, live music, cooking demonstrations, 40 local authors with books on an array of topics, and a special keynote speaker.

Families can also go on an adventure through the Central Library on a Scavenger Hunt. The hunt will challenge customers to find a list of authors scattered throughout the Library and get their signatures. The first participants to complete their list will win a prize.

Event organizers say Bookstock and Bookstock Jr. have something for everyone. “The whole family can enjoy the fun and possibly discover something about their Library that they didn’t know before,” Seratt concluded.

For more information about Bookstock or Bookstock Jr., call (901) 415-2846.