The Charleston Library Society’s BOOK DROP Outreach Program invites families to attend “UP, UP & READ!,” a three-day children’s literary festival taking place August 5-7 at 164 King Street. Free and open to the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, the festival celebrates children’s literature while advancing the mission of the Book Drop initiative—to foster a lifelong love of reading through inclusive programming that connects diverse young readers with beloved authors.
Including activities for all ages, the festival features story times with beloved local authors at 10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m., plus interactive activities, music, treats, and a carefully curated book fair by Buxton Books.
Festival Highlights Include:
- Daily Author Story Times (details above)
- Silhouettes by Clay Rice – Renowned silhouette artist Clay Rice will be offering custom portraits Tuesday, August 5, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sign-ups required as space is limited. See charlestonlibrarysociety.org for sign-up details
- Music with Sabrina Moorman – Free children’s music class at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, August 7.
- Interactive Activity Table by Kids Garden - A hands-on experience bringing stories to life
- Buxton Books Book Fair – A handpicked collection of children’s books available for purchase throughout the festival
- Food and beverages – Lemonade and King of Pops popsicles
“This festival brings our BOOK DROP mission to life—putting books into kids’ hands and making stories accessible, joyful, and part of everyday life,” said. Justine Buckley, Children's Programming Coordinator at Charleston Library Society. “We are thrilled to open our doors to all to join us in this celebration of early childhood literacy."
For the full story time schedule, silhouette sign-ups, and more, visit: charlestonlibrarysociety.org