

Next Chapter 2026
Where & When | Writers Contest | Exhibit | Support
Join LA County Library and the City of West Hollywood for the Next Chapter Writers’ Summit & Book Fair, a free daylong celebration of books, storytelling, and belonging. Whether you’re a devoted reader, aspiring writer, or an industry professional, the Next Chapter Writers’ Summit & Book Fair brings together narratives from across Los Angeles County and beyond for an inspiring day of author talks, panel discussions, consultations, and community connection.
Celebrating the Art of the Story
This year’s theme centers on celebrating the art of the story by honoring the timeless power of storytelling to connect people, preserve culture, inspire imagination, and create lasting change. Every story has the ability to open minds, spark meaningful conversations, and help us better understand ourselves and one another. This year’s theme recognizes storytelling as both an art form and a powerful force that shapes communities, challenges perspectives, and builds empathy across generations.
For avid readers, stories offer opportunities to discover new worlds, explore different experiences, and connect with voices that leave a lasting impact. For aspiring writers, every story represents the courage to create, share their truth, and to contribute something meaningful to the literary ecosystem. Whether written through fiction, memoir, poetry, or children’s literature, stories remind us that every voice has value and every experience deserves the opportunity to be heard.
The Next Chapter Writers Summit & Book Fair is committed to uplifting the freedom to read, championing creative expression, and amplifying stories from underrepresented communities. By celebrating authors whose perspectives have too often been overlooked, we create space for richer conversations, broader representation, and a literary future where every reader belongs and can find themselves reflected in the pages of a book.
Join us in celebrating the artists behind the stories, the readers who keep them alive, and the enduring power of books to educate, inspire, and transform lives. Together, we celebrate the art of the story and the voices that shape our next chapter.

Where & When
Saturday, November 14, 2026
From 10 am to 6:00 pm
at West Hollywood Library, West Hollywood Aquatic Center and West Hollywood Park.
What to Expect
- Headliner Author Talks, Book Signings, and a Celebration
- Thought-Provoking Panel Discussions with Best-Selling Authors and Established Literary Professionals
- Sign-Up to Meet with Literary Agents and Editors
- Book Fair and Resources from Local Partners and Vendors
- Engaging Activations and Entertainment!
Have A Question?
Flash Fiction Contest

Be heard! Enter today!
Aspiring Teen and Adult writers are invited to enter our 2026 Next Chapter Writers’ Summit Writing Contest by submitting an original flash fiction short story (750 words max).
The Library will select 3 winners from all entries. Winners will have their work featured on LA County Library’s Biblioboard for 1 year. Winners will be recognized on stage at the Next Chapter Writers’ Summit on November 14, 2026.
- The contest is open to teens and adults, ages 13 and up.
- Only one submission per person is permitted.
- Deadline to submit is August 17, 2026.
- Entries must be submitted by a current LA County Library cardholder and resident of LA County. Sign up for an LA County Library card.
Exhibit at our Book Fair
Exhibit at the 2026 Next Chapter Writers’ Summit’s Book Fair. We are seeking booksellers, book clubs, and related vendors and resource partners to showcase their goods and services at West Hollywood Park on Saturday, November 14. Exhibiting at the Summit’s Book Fair is free. Deadline to register is September 1 at 11:59 pm.
Make a Lasting Impact
Support the Next Chapter Writers’ Summit and similar programs by making a charitable gift to LA County Library Foundation.
Special Thanks to Our Supporters











