Even though the Miami Book Fair International—the nation’s largest book fair—is less than two months away (November 17 – 24, 2013), you don’t have to wait until then to the experience the power of literature. Leading up to the fair, The Center for Literature and Theatre @ MDC and Books & Books celebrate their 30th anniversary and long-standing partnership with pre-fair author events.

Miami Book Fair International

At each of the Pre-Fair author events, attendees are encouraged to donate new or gently used children’s books as part of the Center’s Read to Learn Books for Free program. In partnership with the Children’s Trust, the program aims to place bookshelves full of free books in locations throughout Miami-Dade County where parents and children visit often, including public health clinics, the Juvenile Center and family homelessness shelters—more than 40 locations in the first year with more to follow.

Each person who donates children’s books at any of the 30th Pre-Fair events will will be entered into a drawing to win a $30 gift card from Books & Books. The winner will be announced at the start of each presentation.

Upcoming Pre-Fair Author Events:

Wednesday, Oct. 9, 7:30 p.m. Elizabeth Gilbert on “The Signature of All Things,” co-presented with Books & Books (Tickets required; visit www.booksandbooks.com) MDC Wolfson Campus – Auditorium (Building 1, 2nd Floor)

Monday, Oct. 21, 7 p.m. Helen Fielding on “Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy,” co-presented with Books & Books MDC Wolfson Campus – Auditorium (Building 1, 2nd Floor)

Thursday, Oct. 24, 7:30 p.m. Billy Collins on “Aimless Love: New and Selected Poems,” co-presented with Books & Books MDC Wolfson Campus – Auditorium (Building 1, 2nd Floor)

Wednesday, Nov. 6, 7:30 p.m. Donna Tartt on “The Goldfinch,” co-presented with Books & Books MDC Wolfson Campus – Auditorium (Building 1, 2nd Floor)

The Miami Book Fair International runs from November 17 – 24th, 2013; Miami Dade College, 300 N.E. Second Avenue, Miami. Visit www.miamibookfair.com for more information and a schedule of events.