Festival FAQ
Take a look at our frequently asked questions to gain a better understanding of the Festival. Don’t see your question below? Reach out to info@pittsburghbookfestival.org.
Where can I find the schedule?
On the festival website. Also, check out the “Plan Your Festival Experience” that has suggested programs for different interests and genres.
Is it a free event?
Yes, it is a FREE event!
Where can I register for Author Talks/Workshops?
The registration link can be found on the website, linked here.
What if I do if I did not register for an Author Talk/Workshop?
You are able to show up to the author talk/workshop room and get in line at the door. If there are available seats, 10 minutes before the program starts, we will allow the people in line to enter.
Do I need to register for programs?
Pre-registration on Humanitix is highly recommended and will be seated first. Please plan to arrive no later than 10 minutes before the program. If there are available seats then people who did not pre-registered will be allowed to join the program.
Can I get my book signed if I did not attend to the program?
Yes, you are able to join the signing line after the program has ended. Book signings will be near the bookseller locations.
Do I need to register for programs that are happening on the stage?
Pre-registration is encouraged but not required. Seating will be first-come first-serve outside in front of the stage located outside.
Do I need to register for the Poetry Tent?
No, the poetry tent is open to everyone to come and go as they wish throughout the event.
Where do I park?
There is parking on-site at the Seminary, street parking, and parking at the Obama School across the street from the Seminary.
How can I support the Greater Pittsburgh Festival of Books?
You can make a donation online or by calling 412.622.6276.
Will there be food?
Yes, there will be a variety of food vendors.
How many people are expected at the Festival?
We are expecting 5,000+ attendees.
Is there a children/young adult area?
Yes, there are multiple tents and organizations that will be providing children/young adult activities and programming throughout the day. Please do not leave your children unattended during the day.
Is there a changing table or nursing room?
Yes, inside Long Hall in the women’s restroom that is between the John Knox room and the bookstore.
Where can I purchase books?
There will be designated bookstores that will be selling books in various locations inside throughout the festival. The children/young adult books will be located in a tent in its designated area. Poetry books will be located in the Poetry Tent.
What is Writer’s Row?
A variety of authors who are selling their own books on-site.
Is there a rain date for the event?
No, this event will happen rain or shine. In the event of thunder and lightning or extremely high winds, we will do our best to move the outdoor events to an indoor space.
Will there be a place to just read a book?
Yes, the Seminary library has a variety of areas with seating that is perfect for reading.
Is the Festival outside?
The exhibitors, food vendors, children/young adult area, and poetry area will be outside. The author talks and workshops will be the only programming inside. Some book signings and book sales will be inside.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are allowed as long as they are always on a leash and they are not permitted inside any of the buildings. Service dogs are the exception.
Is this a religious event?
No, the festival is not a religious event. We are thankful to the Seminary for hosting the event.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are ramps and elevators in the buildings. Also, we will have wheelchair-accessible portable toilets and restrooms inside that are usable.
Who can I reach out to with questions?
Please call Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh at 412-622-1925