
You are invited to the CCPL Books, Bites, and Beats Fest at the Waldorf West branch on Saturday, April 5, 2025, from 11 AM to 3 PM!
The CCPL Books, Bites, and Beats Fest celebrates literature, music, and family fun to raise funds for your Charles County Public Library! This exciting festival offers something for everyone, featuring author talks, book signings, activities for the whole family, local artisans and food trucks, and the first-ever Citizens for the Charles County Public Library Pop-Up Book Sale tent!
All proceeds from this event will help us offer our community more free programs, services, and resources. Learn more about how you can help support the mission or become a donor here.

There are several ways to join the celebration! Below are the details on the ticket options. You can purchase tickets for one or all of the events, but hurry before tickets sell out! For any questions about tickets, please contact fundraising [at] ccplonline.org.

VIP Author Brunch
Join us for an engaging conversation with New York Times bestselling author Dolen Perkins-Valdez as she discusses her new book, HAPPY LAND, with DMV lifestyle and book influencer Talia Cadet. Every VIP Author Brunch ticket includes a signed copy of HAPPY LAND. Copies of HAPPY LAND purchased from MahoganyBooks.
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 12 PM
🏨 Location: Hilton Garden Inn (10385 O’Donnell Pl, Waldorf, MD 20603)
💵 Ticket Price: $125/person
About Talia Cadet: Talia Cadet is a DC-based lifestyle & book influencer with 160K+ followers across TikTok, Instagram, & Substack. Known for her engaging book lists, travel guides, & lifestyle content, Talia’s content empowers, educates, & entertains her online community.
Wine Tasting & Live Music
Enjoy a selection of local and international wines and learn about their key attributes, origins, and foods that pair well with them. It’s a great way to explore and become educated on the world of wine!
While you savor the vineyard’s finest offerings, let Desiree Jordan’s soulful and dynamic voice set the tone. A genre-crossing vocal artist with a sound described as ‘anointed’ and ‘timeless,’ Desiree has graced stages from the Kennedy Center to international venues. Known for her unique blend of Jazz, R&B, Gospel, and more, she brings unparalleled energy and passion to every performance. We are thrilled to welcome her back to CCPL for an unforgettable musical journey!
🕐 Time: 1 PM – 3 PM
🏢 Location: Waldorf West Branch Meeting Rooms (10405 O’Donnell Pl, Waldorf, MD 20603)
💵 Ticket Price: $75/person

Explore our themed villages while enjoying live music by DJ Hefbeats! Find your next great read at the Book Village, discover new items in the Vendor Village, enjoy crafts and face painting in the Kids Village, and swing by the Food Village to satisfy your cravings with tasty treats!
🕚 Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
🏢 Location: Waldorf West Branch (10401 O’Donnell Pl, Waldorf, MD 20603)
💵 Ticket Price: Free!

Book Village: Featuring local authors and book signings, shop new and used books at The Citizens for the Charles County Public Library Pop-Up Book sale tent.

Vendor Village: Discover new items from local artisans and business owners.

Kids Village: Enjoy crafts, face painting, and fun activities for the whole family! Be sure to stop by the CCPL Discovery Lab to check out the library’s newest outreach vehicle.

Food Village: Savor delicious bites and treats from a variety of local food trucks–A full list coming soon!

What is CCPL raising money for?
We are raising money to support CCPL programs, services, and resources, such as STEM Club, the Charles County Detention Center Library, the Mobile Library, the Discovery Lab, and programming for all ages.
Why is there a cost for the VIP events at CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest when other library events are free?
The CCPL Books, Bites, and Beats Fest is not just a celebration—it’s also a fundraiser! Proceeds help cover event costs and support library programs that make a difference in the Charles County community. While the outdoor festival is completely free to attend, our VIP experiences (Author Brunch and Wine Tasting + Live Music) are ticketed to help raise funds that expand our impact.
What about parking?
Free parking is available on-site at the Waldorf West Branch. Free parking is available at the Hilton Garden Inn for those attending the VIP Author Brunch. Accessible parking spaces are located near the event entrances.
What happens if it rains?
The CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest will proceed rain or shine! Weather-related updates will be posted on our website and social media.
Do I need to register for the free activities?
Yes! While the outdoor festival is free to attend, we kindly ask that you register in advance. This helps us plan for the best experience and ensure we have enough space, materials, and activities for everyone to enjoy.
What if I need special accommodations?
Charles County Public Library events are accessible to all. If you have an accessibility request, please contact fundraising [at] ccplonline [dot] org five business days prior to the event.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, outside food and drinks are permitted at the Festival. Additional options will be available for purchase from food vendors.
Can I access the Waldorf West branch during the event?
Yes! Except for the meeting rooms where CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest events are being held, you can access the Waldorf West branch, public computers, and check-out materials.
I donated to CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest fundraiser. How do I pick up my tote bag?
Thank you so much for your donation! You can stop by the General Information table located under the black CCPL tent.
How do I sign up as a vendor or an author at the CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest?
Thank you so much for your interest in participating in our celebration! Please see the section below for more information about signing up!
How can I be a sponsor for this event?
Please email sponsorship inquiries to Shannon Bland, Development Manager, at sbland [at] ccplonline [dot] org.
Who should I contact if I have any questions or concerns?
For any questions about the CCPL Books, Bites, & Beats Fest, please contact fundraising [at] ccplonline [dot] org.

Calling all local authors and vendors! Showcase your talents at the CCPL Books, Bites, and Beats Fest on April 5, 2025. This exciting event is an excellent opportunity to connect with the community, sell your books or merchandise, and celebrate literature and fun. Spots are limited, so don’t wait—click on the links below to learn more and submit your application for the event today!