Mid-Columbia Reads 2026
Mid-Columbia Libraries is proud to welcome New York Times bestselling author Julia Quinn for this year's Mid-Columbia Reads literary festival. The Mid-Columbia Reads literary festival takes place Oct. 1 through Nov. 12. Stop by your local library starting Oct. 1 to take home a free copy of one of Quinn's books, while supplies last.
Immerse yourself in events, lectures, and discussions by attending events related to the "Bridgerton" series. This literary festival culminates with an author presentation on Thursday, Nov. 12 at 7 pm at the Arthur E. Fuller Auditorium, located at 500 S. Dayton St. in Kennewick. This event is free, but registration is required. ASL and Spanish translation is available upon request. Please reach out to programs@midcolumbialibraries.org if you need these services. Additional books will be available for purchase at the author event.
- Doors open: 6 pm
- Author presentation followed by Q&A: 7 pm
Mid-Columbia Reads encourages communities throughout the Mid-Columbia region to engage with the same books and come together to explore and celebrate the written and spoken word. We strive to build community through the collective experience of reading, thinking, and discussing ideas and themes that raise important social issues while also building future readers in our region.
Events
Living Curiously: Social Dancing
Monday, October 5 at 4 pm
Kennewick Library | 1620 S. Union Street
Take a break from your reading chair for the dance floor and bring your favorite book era to life!
Regency Ball
Sunday, October 11 from 3-6 pm
Moore Mansion | 200 N Rd 34, Pasco
Enjoy dancing, amusements, merriment, and society at the Moore Mansion. Regency attire is encouraged. Pearls and gloves most welcome. This program is intended for adults.
Space is limited and registration is required. Click here to register.
The Craft Collective: Bedazzled Books
Saturday, October 17 at 3 pm
Kennewick Library | 1620 S. Union Street
Make your book the diamond of the season! Bring your own book or choose from a provided selection and get creative with us. We will be bedazzling books and watching a classic regency romance "Pride and Prejudice" (2005). Craft supplies provided, while supplies last.
The Craft Collective: Bedazzled Books
Tuesday, October 20 at 6 pm
Prosser Library | 902 7th St.
Make your book the diamond of the season! Bring your own book or choose from a provided selection and get creative with us. Craft supplies provided, while supplies last.
By a Lady: A Look at Jane Austen's World
Wednesday, October 21 at 6 pm
Kennewick Library | 1620 S. Union Street
Travel back to the Regency era with presenter Tames Alan as she explores the history, fashion, and traditions behind Jane Austen's beloved novels.
Hidden Layers: Women's Undergarments and How They've Shaped Ladies' Liberties
Thursday, October 29 at 6 pm
Kennewick Library | 1620 S. Union Street
Women’s underwear has long reflected society’s views on modesty, femininity, and beauty. In this talk, explore how comfort, freedom, and function in women’s undergarments mirrored broader social changes.
Romance Book Club: Books by Julia Quinn
Thursday, November 5 at 4:30 pm
West Pasco Library | 7525 Wrigley Dr., Pasco
Join fellow readers for a discussion of romance books by Mid-Columbia Reads author Julia Quinn. Celebrate love, relationships, and unforgettable characters through discussion. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to romance, all are welcome.
Romance Book Club: Books by Julia Quinn
Thursday, November 10 at 5:30 pm
Kennewick Library | 1620 S. Union Street
Join fellow readers for a discussion of romance books by Mid-Columbia Reads author Julia Quinn. Celebrate love, relationships, and unforgettable characters through discussion. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to romance, all are welcome.
Mid-Columbia Reads: Julia Quinn
Thursday, November 12 at 7 pm
Arthur E. Fuller Auditorium | 500 S. Dayton St., Kennewick
The author will present on at the Arthur E. Fuller Auditorium. Doors open at 6 pm and the author presentation begins at 7 pm.
Space is limited and registration is required. Click here to register.
About Julia Quinn
“Certainly not every reader has liked every one of my books, but I think that's a good thing because it means I'm not repeating myself." — Julia Quinn
Julia Quinn is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the beloved "Bridgerton" novels, the Regency-era romance series that inspired the hit Netflix series "Bridgerton". Her books have sold more than 20 million copies in the United States and have been translated into more than 40 languages, earning her a devoted international readership.
Quinn’s path to becoming a novelist was unexpected. After graduating from Harvard, she briefly attended Yale Medical School before deciding that writing was where she truly belonged. She discovered romance novels and thought she could write one herself. That decision launched a successful career spanning decades.
Outside of writing, Quinn is passionate about literacy, land rights, and the freedom to read. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with her family.
When she’s not writing, she’s likely reading, supporting causes she cares about, or connecting with her readers. Learn more about the author at JuliaQuinn.com.
