Southington Reads 2026: Get Here Early, Library Says: UPDATE

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Residents hoping to attend the Southington Reads 2026 program featuring novelist Amity Gaige still need to wait for an opening, as the event at the Southington Public Library has reached full capacity and its waitlist is also filled.

The community reading event is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, March 26, has generated strong interest among local readers.

This week, the library released some information regarding event protocols, which include arriving early and checking your e-mail if you're on the waiting list.

"To ensure you have plenty of time to find a seat before we begin, we suggest you arrive early—explore our new building, check out some items, or kick back with a magazine in one of our 'egg' chairs," wrote the library on Tuesday.

"Be aware that, while library parking is available at the library, it will likely fill up quickly. However, additional parking is conveniently located directly across the street at Derynoski Elementary School."

The library also said folks still hoping to get in should check their e-mail.

"If you're on the waitlist for this event, please keep a careful eye on your email over the next 72 hours as you may find you have moved from the waitlist to the attending list," wrote the library.

Organizers are asking anyone who registered but can no longer attend to cancel their reservation so people on the waitlist can take their place.

Registrants can cancel through the link in their confirmation email or by contacting the library’s Reference Desk.

Gaige, a West Hartford resident and faculty member at Yale University, is the national bestselling author of five novels.

Her latest book, Heartwood, was selected for the Read with Jenna book club and has drawn national attention.

The novel was called “the best thriller of the year” by The Boston Globe and “genius” by The Washington Post.

Her previous novels include Schroder and Sea Wife.

Library officials said Gaige’s appearance gives Southington residents a chance to engage with a nationally recognized author whose work has drawn praise from writers including Jennifer Egan and Elin Hilderbrand.

Copies of Gaige’s books are available for checkout at the library’s circulation desk.

Organizers said they look forward to welcoming registered attendees to the March 26 event.