National Day
National Authors Day
Celebrated on 11/01/2026
Quick Fact
National Authors Day, observed on November 1, was established by the United States in 1929 to honor American authors. It encourages readers to write letters of appreciation to their favorite authors, acknowledging the contributions of writers to society.
Origins and Establishment of National Authors Day
National Authors Day was first conceived in 1928 by Nellie Verne Burt McPherson, a teacher and president of the Bement, Illinois Women's Club. She proposed the idea to the General Federation of Women's Clubs, which adopted it. The first observance took place in 1929, and in 1949, the U.S. Department of Commerce officially recognized November 1 as National Authors Day. The day was created to honor American authors and encourage reading and writing.
Evolution and Modern Commemoration
Over the years, National Authors Day has grown from local club activities to a nationwide celebration. Today, it is marked by book signings, author readings, and writing workshops. Libraries and schools often host events, and social media campaigns encourage readers to thank their favorite authors. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of intellectual property and copyright protection.
Facts & General Observations
- According to a 2020 survey, 27% of U.S. adults reported not having read a book in the past year, highlighting the need for days like National Authors Day to promote reading.
- The first National Authors Day was celebrated with a radio broadcast featuring authors like Willa Cather and Robert Frost.
- National Authors Day is part of National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), which begins on November 1, encouraging writers to complete a 50,000-word novel in a month.