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Books, Bites, and Big Ideas

LitLUNCH! 2026 pairs conversation with Zibby Owens and a stylish afternoon in support of local literacy
| Jessica Graves
Three women stand outdoors, smiling and holding copies of the book "Rulebreaker" at a Big Ideas event. They are dressed in colorful, patterned dresses, with greenery and a modern building in the background. Lifestyle

The Broward Public Library Foundation will celebrate its 16th annual LitLUNCH! on Friday, February 20, 2026, welcoming literary tastemakers and community leaders for an afternoon devoted to books, ideas, and the enduring pleasure of reading.

This year’s featured speaker is bestselling author, publisher, entrepreneur, podcast host, and independent bookstore owner Zibby Owens. Known for championing authors and building one of the most influential literary platforms in the country, Owens will share insights from her latest novel Blank: A Novel, as well as her memoir Bookends: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Literature and her children’s book
Princess Charming.

LitLUNCH! 2026 takes place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Aviva Ballroom at Pier Sixty-Six, 2301 SE 17th Street in Fort Lauderdale. The afternoon includes a multi-course luncheon with complimentary wine, a signed copy of Blank, book sales and signings, raffle drawings, and valet parking.

The event serves as the official kickoff to the Foundation’s Literary Feast fundraising season, which continues with LitLIVE! on Friday, April 17, and culminates with A Night of Literary Feasts on Saturday, April 18—both featuring acclaimed and bestselling authors. Proceeds from the series support Broward County Library literacy programs and services funded by the Broward Public Library Foundation.

Tickets for LitLUNCH! begin at $150, with premium tables and sponsorship opportunities available. Event co-chairs Laurie M. Ernest-Jones and Marianna Seiler DeJager return to lead the 2026 celebration.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit bplfoundation.org/litlunch or call 954-357-7382.

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