There’s no need to travel to writers’ festivals to hear bestselling authors talk about their latest books. If you’ve got a library card you can enjoy online author talks live in your living room. Clarence Valley library members have exclusive access to an online series of Australia’s top authors in conversation, including the ABC’s Craig Reucassel, General Sir Peter Cosgrove and fantasy fiction writer Garth Nix. “These online events give you an intimate insight into the author’s personality and the stories they’ve written,” Regional Librarian Kathryn Breward said. “They’re really enjoyable and because they’re live you have the opportunity to ask questions.” Free access to exclusive author talks is one of the silver linings of COVID-19 restrictions, according to Mrs Breward. “With COVID-19 putting a stop to national book tours, authors have moved online to promote their latest books. So we’re getting free access to top authors who would normally limit their promotion to big writers’ festivals where you’d have to pay to see them,” Mrs Breward said. “The opportunity for all of our library members to hear authors such as General Sir Peter Cosgrove in conversation is fantastic.” Upcoming online author talks @ your library • Nov 3 – Join bestselling fantasy writer Garth Nix in conversation with Yasmin Greenhalgh from Stanton Library. Garth’s latest book is The Left-handed Booksellers of London. • 12 Nov – Join best-selling historical fiction writer Lauren Chater in conversation with author Meg Keneally. Lauren will talk about her latest novel, Gulliver’s Wife. • 16 Nov – Join Craig Reucassel live online to discuss his latest book Fight for Planet A. • 30 Nov – General Sir Peter Cosgrove will be in conversation with Richard Glover discussing his memoir, You Shouldn’t Have. • 10 Dec – Listen to Mary Li in conversation about her memoir, Mary’s Last Dance, the long-awaited sequel to her husband Li Cunxin’s bestselling memoir, Mao’s Last Dancer. For more information or to register for these free events visit www.crl.nsw.gov.au and click on ‘What’s On @ Your Library’. These author talks are supported by Clarence Regional Library, NSW Public Libraries Association and State Library of NSW. All of the books are available to borrow from your local library.