Book lovers, aspiring writers and community members will have the opportunity to meet local authors and celebrate the literary arts during Saturday’s second annual Gloucester Arts Festival Book Fair.

The event will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester, located at 6894 Main Street, Main Street Center. It is free to the public, and will feature approximately 25 local and regional authors representing a variety of genres and writing styles.

The fair is designed to showcase the vibrant literary community found throughout Gloucester and the surrounding region while providing readers with a unique opportunity to connect directly with authors.

Among the featured authors will be William E. Johnson, a local attorney and award-winning author of “A Silent Tide,” and Mary Bush Shipko, who is recognized as a living honoree on Gloucester’s “Iconic Women of Gloucester” mural on Main Street.

In addition to book signings, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in author readings, presentations and question-and-answer sessions throughout the afternoon. Authors will discuss their work, share insights into their creative processes and interact with readers in an informal setting.

Visitors will have an opportunity to discover new authors, learn about different genres and purchase signed copies of books directly from the writers themselves.

The featured lineup includes authors Pamela Cappetta, Michelle Caprio, Lor-alee Clark, Drema Deòraich, S.K. Ehra, Melissa Face, Cindy L. Freeman, Mark A. Gagnon, Michael Gryboski, Thomas Guay, Ashley Hall, Bradley Harper, Sonny Hudson, Johnson and numerous additional writers from across the region.

Attendees can also enjoy giveaways, coupons and door prizes throughout the day. Food truck Mike’s Smash Burgers will be available on-site, offering refreshments and meals for purchase.