Stark Library’s ‘Speaking of Books’ series returns Sept. 30 with B.J. Novak

The Dr. Audrey Lavin Speaking of Books Author Series, named for Stark County’s own local author and library supporter, will begin its 11th season Sept. 30 with author, actor, producer and comedian B.J. Novak at the Canton Palace Theatre.

The series brings acclaimed writers to Stark County each September, November, March and April. “The event brings the community together to share in exceptional experiences and be inspired by authors who share unique insights from their personal journeys,” said Marianna DiGiacomo, Stark Library’s community services director. “The first two events of the 11th season will be held at the Canton Palace Theatre. In spring 2026, the series moves to First Christian Church Auditorium.”

Over the years, the series has hosted best-selling authors such as Terry McMillan, Sandra Brown and David Baldacci, as well as speakers who sparked meaningful conversations about addiction, recovery and mental health, including Elizabeth Vargas, David Sheff, Danny Trejo and Michelle Williams. Families have also enjoyed talks from Marc Brown, Kate the Chemist and astronauts Mike Massimino and Nicole Stott.

“Our community loved hearing from Cleveland news icon Ramona Robinson. Bernie Kosar provided a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to meet a Cleveland Browns legend, and Jenna Bush Hager delighted a sold-out Canton Palace Theatre with her humor and heartfelt stories about her beloved grandparents,” DiGiacomo said. “All four 10th-season events sold out quickly, some in less than 24 hours, reinforcing the enthusiastic response and excitement from our community. Five thousand people attended the four events.”

This season’s lineup features Novak on Sept. 30, Marlee Matlin on Nov. 6, astronaut Terry Virts on March 19, and Derek Hough on April 23. “As we plan for the season, we look to offer a variety of authors that will be appealing to the community and authors who have topics that are important to our community,” DiGiacomo said.

Novak is best known for his work on NBC’s Emmy Award-winning comedy The Office, but he has also achieved success as a best-selling author. His children’s book The Book With No Pictures spent two years on the New York Times Picture Book List, including 34 weeks at No. 1, and his short story collection One More Thing has also been praised for its wit and humor.

“Novak was selected to kick off the 11th season because of his popularity and appeal to many who know him from his work and to share his experiences as a writer, producer, actor and author,” DiGiacomo said. “There has been a lot of excitement on social media about the event, and we believe it will be a wonderful experience.”

A limited number of free meet-and-greet passes will be available the evening of the event on a first-come, first-served basis. The Little Sparrow Bookshop will sell pre-signed books at the event, though Novak will not sign memorabilia. A photographer will take photos during the meet and greet for attendees to download afterward.

Tickets are free and will be available beginning Sept. 11 at 10 a.m., with upgraded ticket options also offered. For ticket information, visit StarkLibrary.org/Novak.