Volunteer with us at the National Book Festival 2025!

This is a guest post by Randi Smith, museum technician in the Library’s Visitor Engagement Office. 

Are you passionate about books, community and sharing the joy of reading? Join us as a volunteer for the 2025 Library of Congress National Book Festival, a celebration of stories, imagination and connection! Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just love being around book-loving people, this is your chance to make a meaningful impact while having a great time.

We’re looking for enthusiastic, friendly volunteers to help with a variety of roles, from welcoming guests and answering questions to staffing author programs and working the information booth. Not only is this a great opportunity to support literacy and foster a love of reading in the community, but it’s also a fantastic way to gain event experience, meet like-minded people and be part of something truly special.

The festival will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, September, 6th, at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center (801 Allen Y. Lew Place, NW, Washington, D.C.). Doors open to the public at 8:30 a.m., and morning volunteer shift begins at 8:00 a.m. (with check-in at 7:30 a.m.). To learn more about this event, visit the festival’s official website.

Fun facts, by the numbers. This year’s festival…

• Will host more than 90 authors
• Encompasses 2,000,000+ square feet of the Walter E. Washington Convention Center
• Marks 25 years of National Book Festival fun
• Spans 11 hours of author talks, book signings, activities and more
• Will engage 1000+ volunteers (including you!)

All to create one exciting day!

No prior experience is necessary; just bring your energy, a smile and your love of books. Volunteering is open to anyone, even if you’re as young as 16! Volunteers will be trained in their different roles, get to attend the festival as a guest outside of your volunteer hours and receive our endless appreciation!

To volunteer, you’ll need to meet the criteria below:

1. Be at least 16 years of age as of Saturday, September 6th, 2025.
2. Commit to at least one 4.5-hour shift at the festival.
3. Attend a mandatory 90-minute briefing session before the festival. Briefing attendees may select to take it virtually or in person.
4. Pick up your T-shirt at the Library of Congress in advance of the festival.
5. Sign the Library’s Voluntary Services Agreement (this document must be signed and presented for t-shirt pickup).

Think you’re a good fit? Click here to complete the application form no later than Wednesday, August 20th. Once you have completed the application form, you will receive an automatic email confirming receipt. Once your volunteer application is approved, you will receive additional information from [email protected].