Our signature “Authors Visiting in Des Moines” (AViD) program brings renowned authors to our community for free arts and cultural programming. The popular spring speaker series features a diverse lineup of acclaimed writers selected to stimulate critical thinking, deepen understanding, and develop a greater appreciation for the written word. 

Six to seven authors are selected each year from a variety of genres and chosen to appeal to a broad audience, increase awareness of current and historical social issues, and create a community dialogue. We’ve seen more than 50,000 attendees since the series inception, with standing-room-only crowds and visitors who make Des Moines a destination.

Iowa Author Awards 

Des Moines Public Library Foundation also recognizes exceptional writers with Iowa ties with the “Iowa Author Award.” Since 2000, the following individuals have received this honor: 

  • 2024: Lyz Lenz, Caleb “The Negro Artist” Rainey, Carol Roh Spaulding
  • 2023: Tracey Garvis Graves, Amy Lee Lillard, Abena Sankofa Imhotep, Denise Williams
  • 2022: Art Cullen, Heather Gudenkauf, Nate Staniforth
  • 2021: Nikole Hannah-Jones 
  • 2019: John Sanford 
  • 2018: Nick Nolte
  • 2017: John Irving 
  • 2016: Patricia T. O’Conner 
  • 2015: Tim Johnston, Dr. Neil Nakadate, Dr. William Friedricks, Claudia McGehee 
  • 2014: Bill Bryson 
  • 2013: Wendy Delsol, Charles A. Murray, Kelly D. Norris
  • 2012: Wini Moranville, Sarah Prineas, Mary Kay Shanley, Jennifer Wilson 
  • 2011: Barry Griswell, Bob Jennings, Elvin McDonald 
  • 2010: Peter Bognanni, Dayton R. Duncan, Elizabeth Evans
  • 2009: Mildred Kalish, Deborah Marquart, John Stauffer
  • 200:8 Stephen Bloom, Robert Dana, Anne Ylvisaker 
  • 2007: Michael Carey, James McPherson, John Shors 
  • 2006: Max Allen Collins, Dorothy Garlock, Mary Swander
  • 2005: Mary Lynn Kotz, Nick Kotz, Marilynne Robinson 
  • 2004: Frank Conroy, Curtis Harnack, Eleanora E. Tate
  • 2003: Douglas Bauer, Donald Harstad, Jane Smiley
  • 2002: Jeanette Eyerly, Robert James Waller
  • 2001: Venise Berry, John Culver, John Hyde, Donald Kaul
  • 2000: James Autry, George S. Mills, Barbara Robinette Moss