Literary Lions Gala 2026
A Love Letter to Libraries
Saturday, March 7, 2026 · Bellevue Library
Overview
The Literary Lions Gala is the KCLS Foundation’s signature celebration of libraries, literacy, and community. This year, we return to the Bellevue Library for a rare and special after-hours experience—an evening that brings together supporters, authors, and book lovers to uplift the programs that keep curiosity and connection thriving across King County.
Our 2026 theme, A Love Letter to Libraries, is inspired by the thousands of handwritten notes, drawings, and poems being collected through our countywide Love Letters to Libraries campaign. These Love Letters capture what libraries mean to people of all ages: a favorite childhood memory, a quiet place to learn, a welcoming space to belong, or a lifeline to technology and resources. At the Gala, guests will step into a vibrant installation of these letters, celebrating the power of libraries through the words of our own community.
The evening includes a festive reception, author conversations, hors d'oeuvres, and opportunities to support programs that help children and families thrive throughout King County.
Tickets & Tables
Tickets for the Literary Lions Gala 2026 are not yet on sale. Early Bird tickets will go on sale in early January 2026.
To be among the first to know when tickets become available—and to receive early announcements about featured authors and special experiences—please join our Gala mailing list.
Already on the KCLS Foundation email list? You will automatically receive Gala updates.
Gala Program
5–6 pm · VIP Author Reception
An exclusive, intimate gathering for VIP guests and featured authors. Attendees will enjoy light refreshments, connect with authors up close, and get an early start to the evening’s celebration inside the Bellevue Library after hours.
6–8:30 pm · General Reception and Stage Program
All guests will experience the full Literary Lions Gala, including a festive reception, a live author panel conversation, and a special Love Letters to Libraries segment. Throughout the space, guests can explore KCLS program tables, participate in raffles and interactive activities, and enjoy hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and a variety of beverages.
This portion of the evening also offers opportunities to meet authors, learn more about the Foundation’s impact, and support essential library services for our community.
8:30–9 pm · Final Book Sales
The evening concludes with a final opportunity to purchase books from our featured authors and participate in book signings. Guests are invited to browse, mingle, and help strengthen library programs before heading out for the night.
Your Emcee for the Evening: Mark Wright
Mark Wright is an Emmy Award–winning journalist and longtime Seattle news anchor with a deep commitment to community storytelling. Over more than three decades, he has helped dozens of nonprofits raise millions of dollars as an event emcee, auctioneer, and advocate.
Mark believes that storytelling is central to the work of nonprofits—when organizations share clear, honest stories about their impact, donors can see their own values reflected in the work.
At the Literary Lions Gala, Mark will guide guests through a meaningful and inspiring program, highlighting the voices behind our Love Letters to Libraries campaign and celebrating the impact of library services across King County.
Featured Author Panel
The heart of the Gala program is a live conversation with four distinguished authors whose work reflects themes of story, belonging, and the transformative power of libraries. Through their diverse perspectives and lived experiences, they bring depth and inspiration to the evening’s celebration. Meet Jess Walter, Kevin O'Brien, Sonora Jha, and Moira Macdonald!
Literary Lions Lineup
The Literary Lions Gala will welcome a dynamic group of 15 distinguished authors from across genres. These Literary Lions will join us for the reception and book signings, giving guests the opportunity to discover new voices and connect with longtime favorites.
Additional authors will be announced shortly. Join the Gala mailing list to receive updates as soon as they are released.
Accessibility & Additional Information
The Bellevue Library is an accessible venue. If you have questions about accommodations, or accessibility needs, please contact our Special Events Manager Priyanka at pparmanand@kcls.org
Sponsorship
Support the Gala and help strengthen library programs across King County by joining us as a sponsor. Customized opportunities are available for businesses and individuals.