Menu Shop Events Author Visits, Book Clubs, Storytimes, and More Barnes & Noble hosts thousands of events every year in its stores nationwide, ranging from author visits to Book Club meetings to children's Storytimes and more. NOTE: Due to COVID-19, events are now virtual until further notice. You can stay up to date on our monthly virtual events by checking our blog, B&N Reads. Author Events Annually, our stores hosts thousands of authors from every genre for book readings, discussions and signings. These author visits range from national touring writers to the hottest celebrities to local authors telling their stories to their communities. Prominent authors who graced our stores in 2016 include David Balducci, former First Lady Laura Bush, Harlan Coben, Chris Colfer, James Dashner, Shane Dawson, Cameron Diaz, Kate DiCamillo, Emily Giffin, Kate Hudson, Daymond John, Stephen King, Terry McMillan, Brad Meltzer, Christopher Paolini, Ridley Pearson, Richard Russo, Amy Schumer, B. Smith and Dan Gasby, and Mo Willems. Pictured below are a few of the recent authors who visited our stores: Bruce Springsteen visited several stores to tout his new memoir, Born to Run, including his hometown store in Freehold, NJ. Author Mo Willems read The Thank You Book at our Burlington, MA, store. Piggie and Elephant stopped by as well to perform and hang out with the young fans. Former First Lady Laura Bush and her daughter Jenna Bush Hager signed copies of their children’s book, Our Great Big Backyard, at our Frisco, TX, store. Children's Events Throughout the year, Barnes & Noble hosts more than 35,000 Storytimes — opportunities for children and their parents to hear new and old favorite picture books read by a bookseller, author or illustrator. These include our national Storytimes series held in stores nationwide, typically Saturdays at 11 a.m. Storytimes are a Barnes & Noble tradition that help promote reading and literacy and bring thousands of families together for laughs and smiles. Additionally, our costume character visits provide opportunities for children to meet their favorite characters from the world of books. Annually, about 1,000 costumed characters visit our stores, including kids' favorites like Curious George, Clifford, Madeline, Arthur, Biscuit, The Cat in the Hat, Corduroy, Froggy, Little Critter, Little Nut Brown Hare, Maisy, Miffy, Cookie Mouse, Peter Rabbit, Winnie the Pooh and Spot the Dog. Pictured below are recent highlights: Our Augusta, GA, store hosted a princess meet & greet featuring Anna and Elsa from Frozen. Our Stockton, CA, store hosted a fun event featuring actors who performed songs and scenes from Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach in heavy British accents. Educator Events Several times during the year, Barnes & Noble stores celebrate Educator Appreciation Days. These week-long celebrations feature a host of programs and workshops, product demos, and special discounts on qualifying purchases for pre-K through grade 12 teachers. Pictured below is a recent educator event: At an educator reception at The Woodlands, TX, store, everyone got in the spirit by following the tradition of giving an apple to each and every teacher! Other Events In addition to the many events already mentioned, our stores host reading and writing groups, game nights, musical performances, and many other types of events. Visit the Store/Event Locator to find upcoming events taking place in your area. B&N Store/Event Locator About Us Visit BN.com More to Explore Shop BN.com Find a Store Follow Us: Copyright Barnes & Noble, Inc. 2021 Barnes & Noble uses cookies to offer you a better user experience. By clicking “Accept All Cookies” you agree to the storing of cookies on your device in accordance with our Cookie Policy Manage Preferences Accept All Cookies