INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Public Library’s Center for Black Literature & Culture (CBLC) will host bestselling author Tomi Adeyemi as keynote speaker for its 9th Annual Book Fest and Juneteenth Celebration, a free community event taking place Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. This year’s theme, “Empowered to Speak: Freedom Dreams,” invites attendees to explore the voices, visions and narratives that shape our past, present and future.
Adeyemi is Hugo and Nebula Award-Winning writer, mystic, and model. Her instant #1 New York Times-bestselling Legacy of Orïsha series, which includes “Children of Blood and Bone,” “Children of Virtue and Vengeance,” and “Children of Anguish and Anarchy,” has sold more than 3 million copies around the world, with a film adaptation set for release in January 2027.
Tickets to the keynote speech with Tomi Adeyemi will be available to the public on Eventbrite, while supplies last. Free tickets are required to attend the keynote. Keynote seating will start at 1 p.m. and the keynote will begin at 2 p.m.
In addition to the keynote, attendees can enjoy a poetry performance from 2026 Artist at Work Fellow Mariah Ivey, participate in Juneteenth themed children’s activities and browse a local author fair showcasing a wide range of genres. Tickets are not required to attend the author fair or the activities taking place during the Book Fest and Juneteenth Celebration.
