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Children’s Book Festival

The Children’s Book Festival aims to get children excited about reading and the arts with a FREE weekend-long festival brimming with renowned children’s authors and illustrators, accompanied by a diverse range of activities and entertainment designed to captivate the imaginations of children and families of all ages and backgrounds.

Celebrating its 15th year, the Children’s Book Festival provides children in grades PreK – 6 and their families with a FREE, interactive and engaging literary experience that inspires in children a love for books and the arts, encourages parents to read to their little ones, and gives them access to affordable new and used books to build home libraries of their own. The festival, an event of The Learning Lamp, will be held April 13 & 13, 2024 at Bottle Works Ethnic Arts Center located at 411 Third Avenue in Johnstown. Plus, every child who comes to the festival walks away with a free book.

authors/illustrators/STORYTELLERS

Alyssa Capucilli – an award-winning, imaginative author of books for both preschoolers and beginning readers including the bestselling Biscuit book series about a lovable and mischievous little yellow puppy, Tulip and Rex, the Katy Duck series, The Library Fish and more!

Bob Shea – an award-winning author and illustrator known for his whimsical and humorous approach to children‘s literature. Shea is well known for his Dinosaur Vs. series, Ballet Cat series, and runaway smash hit, Unicorn Thinks He’s Pretty Great. Bob was the designer of the PBS Kids logo, worked with Nick, Jr., and Dreamworks is developing one of his books into a television show.

Alicia Salazer – a Mexican American children’s book author who has written for blogs, magazines, and education publishers. Alicia is a former elementary school teacher and the author of the Camila the Star series of early chapter books about a young, Mexican American girl who explores her love of acting, singing, and dancing that is relatable to every kid, no matter their culture. When she is not dreaming up new adventures to experience, she is turning her adventures into empowering stories for kids.

Music will fill the festival as Brian Richards takes the main stage. His creative take on storytelling combines magic, comedy, juggling, storytelling, puppets and audience participation, captivating children and fostering excitement about reading!

Bookmark contest

The 15th Annual Children’s Book Festival of Johnstown Bookmark Contest is sparking imaginations and bringing stories to life!

Students may enter as part of a classroom at school, or enter individually. The contest is open to all students in preschool through 6th grade and are judged in the following divisions:

  • Division #1: Grades Pre-K & K
  • Division #2: Grades 1 & 2
  • Division #3: Grades 3 & 4
  • Division #4: Grades 5 & 6

Bookmark designs should represent our theme – Bark, Roar and Explore!

Download the rules and entry form here: 2024 Bookmark Contest Rules and Entry Form.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Sponsors

The Learning Lamp is seeking sponsors for 2024. Community support is critical to making this event accessible to children and families of all incomes. The festival also wouldn’t be possible without the help of volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact kmorrell@thelearninglamp.org or call 814-262-0732 x233.

Thank you to all of our 2024 sponsors!

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