Illinois

Illinois' book fair scene is centered on Chicago, home to Printers Row Lit Fest, a long-running outdoor festival held each June in the city's Printers Row neighborhood that combines author panels, used and rare book vendors, and family programming across several city blocks.

Chicago's broader literary infrastructure, including its universities and independent bookstores, supports additional readings and smaller fairs throughout the year. As with other major-city fairs, the mix tends to span literary fiction, nonfiction, and strong children's programming, drawing readers from across the Midwest.