Bookworms and authors unite. Friends of Athens Clarke-County Library will be hosting their 12th annual Café au Libris tonight.

Created to showcase local authors and attract people to the library, the event provides a rare opportunity to see some of Georgia’s most-acclaimed authors.

“It’s important for people in Athens to meet people that are capable of writing these books that have become nationally known,” said Lynn Baginski, the program’s chair.

This year, four authors have lined up to speak about their work:

 Mary Kay Andrews: Author of bestselling southern mystery novels, Andrews will be speaking about her latest novel, ‘Blue Christmas.’ She graduated from the University with a B.A. in newspaper journalism and reported for the Atlanta Journal Constitution before penning her books.
Blue Christmas: $14.95

 Terry Kay: With nine novels under his belt, Kay is most famous for ‘To Dance with the White Dog,” a story inspired by his parents’ long marriage. The book was adapted into an Emmy-winning Hallmark movie. This Friday, he will be discussing his latest novel, ‘The Book of Marie.’
The Book of Marie: $23.00

 Ferrol Sams: Sams’ semi-autobiographical coming-of-age stories have earned him a place among the bestsellers list. His novel, ‘Run with the Horsemen,’ started as notes for a family history. Sams’ latest novel, ‘Down Town,’ traces four generations of a family living in a Georgia town.
Down Town: $25.00

 Grady Thrasher and illustrator Elaine Rabon: A retired lawyer turned poet, Thrasher’s book, ‘Tim and Sally’s Vegetable Garden,’ teaches children about the joy of gardening. Thrasher teamed up with local freelance artist, Elaine Rabon, to produce his first book.
Tim and Sally’s Vegetable Garden: $18.95

Drinks and desserts will be served during the event and violinist, Christine Thomas, will perform live. Furthermore, a silent auction will be conducted for an “author gift basket,” a signed collection of all the author’s latest releases.

Not enough money to bid? No fear, the authors will hold individually book signing before and after their presentations.

All proceeds from Café au Libris will benefit the library, which
consistently needs funding for educational programs, services, and books.