5th Annual Muskingum County Reading Festival Draws Crowd to Colony Square Mall

Interviewed by WHIZ reporter Gabe Hutton

Colony Square Mall was packed as the Muskingum County Library System hosted its fifth annual Muskingum County Reading Festival.

The event brought together more than 70 vendors and local authors, giving families the opportunity to browse books, merchandise and other items all in one location.

The festival has grown significantly since it was first held at the John McIntire Library. According to Sean Fennell, Marketing Communications Director for the Muskingum County Library System, the event eventually outgrew the library and needed a larger venue.

Last year’s festival attracted about 2,000 people, and organizers hoped to meet or exceed that attendance this year.

Along with the vendors and authors, families could find free items and activities throughout the event, including giveaways from WHIZ’s Desiree Correa.

One of the biggest draws was the opportunity for attendees to meet authors in person, ask questions and learn more about the stories behind their books.

Fennell said the festival helps create a personal connection between readers and local authors, making the experience more than simply purchasing a book online.

The Muskingum County Library System plans to continue hosting events for the community throughout the year.