We are so proud to present 
The Great Plains Literacy Festival.

The town of Seward, Nebraska, is known in the Midwest for many reasons—as a host for literacy events and experiences, frequent stops for author book tours, home of Read Aloud Nebraska, and many other notable experiences. It’s no wonder teachers and librarians nationwide call Seward the “Literacy Capital of the Midwest”!

Seward not only embraces this spirit of literacy; it shares the experiences with as many individuals as possible within the region. 

In an effort to ensure Seward remains a literacy leader of the Midwest and United States, a group of volunteers have come together to create a new experience: The Great Plains Literacy Festival. We hope this two-day experience will provide rich opportunities for readers of all ages to interact with some of the most prominent authors and illustrators in the field today. After a stellar inaugural festival, the first annual GPLF will take place April 22 and 23, 2025. 

What To Expect

Within the span of these two days, five authors/illustrators will travel to Seward, where they will visit schools in Seward and in area towns and communities. Our 2026 authors and illustrators include Deborah Hopkinson, Melissa Iwai, Oge Mora, David Ezra Stein, and Lindsey Stoddard. They will visit many area schools and interact with and engage young readers. They will sign books, draw, read aloud, and provide a launch pad of creativity for those who are able to experience their visits. The authors and illustrators will speak to students from all backgrounds and walks of life, encouraging them to read, write, and follow their dreams.

Evidence from the past suggests that such events are vital in the formation and development of passionate readers and writers. As such, these experiences will help young readers and writers flourish as independent, critical, and creative individuals as they grow and develop from children to young adults. The experience will culminate in a community event in which children, families, and community members can meet and greet the authors and engage in creative and collaborative activities which inspire them to create and read into the summer and beyond. 

We’re so excited for our second year of the Great Plains Literacy Festival!