Local Authors Shine at Owen Sound Library Book Fair

The second annual Owen Sound & North Union Public Library Book Fair featured the works of forty-seven local authors over the weekend, attracting book enthusiasts and community members alike. The event took place on November 10 and 11, 2023, providing a platform for writers to showcase their books and connect with visitors.

Authors were stationed at tables throughout the library, offering attendees the opportunity to engage in conversations about their works. The event included various interactive activities, such as a chance to win book bundles and a game of Plinko for additional prizes, including library pencils and candy. According to Shauna Doyle, the book fair organizer and library information resource specialist, authors were eligible to participate if they either reside in Grey-Bruce, have lived there, or have written a book about the region.

Doyle emphasized the importance of the event in fostering community connections. “There’s so much local talent that we just wanted to bring everyone together into the community and make those connections,” she stated. The book fair not only allows residents to meet their local authors but also helps build a sense of camaraderie among the writers themselves.

One author, Edith Faye Chester, shared her experience while presenting her illustrated children’s book in the library’s children’s section. Chester, who began her writing journey at the age of 50, created “But I Just Can’t Sleep” in 2019 as a bedtime tool for parents. “I have met many wonderful people here. And I think there’s value just being in the literary world,” Chester explained.

She developed techniques to help her own children settle down for the night, including a game called “flopsies,” which encourages children to unwind through playful movements. Chester, who recently relocated back to Bruce County after living in North Bay, is currently working on a new book focused on teaching children how to clean their rooms.

Another participant, renowned local rock guitarist Al Walker, presented his book “The Philosophy of Volume,” published in 2024. The book serves as a nostalgic collection of photographs and memories, preserving the musical history of Owen Sound. Walker explained that he wanted to ensure that his family’s history and local music memorabilia were safeguarded, particularly after experiencing losses due to flooding in his home.

“It’s the first time that I’ve been to anything like this,” Walker remarked about the book fair. “The fact that people walk by and talk to you about your book and choose to buy it or not is a fascinating process.” He noted that many attendees connected with him through shared musical interests.

Walker also mentioned that his book features an augmented PDF version that includes links to songs, making it a unique offering in the literary landscape. He expressed enthusiasm for meeting other authors at the event, highlighting the diverse range of stories and experiences represented.

In addition to the book fair, Doyle announced that the library will host a series of fireside chats with local authors from January to May 2024. These informal gatherings will take place by the fireplace in the Carnegie wing of the library, offering additional opportunities for the community to engage with local literary talent. Details regarding these events will be available in the library’s upcoming winter newsletters.

The Owen Sound & North Union Public Library continues to foster a vibrant literary community, showcasing the talents of local authors and providing a welcoming space for readers and writers to connect. With a growing collection of books by authors from the region, the library remains a vital resource for promoting literature and cultural heritage in Grey-Bruce.