WASHINGTON, DC.- The Library of Congress unveiled the 2026 Library of Congress National Book Festival poster, designed by acclaimed illustrator and designer Andrew Bannecker, best known for his vibrant, highly stylized illustrations that combine bold colors, intricate patterns and emotional storytelling.
From his work with global brands and major media outlets to cultural institutions and even the British Royal Mail, the Kansas-born illustrator has said his goal isn’t attention but “connection,” and it shows in his award-winning work spanning more than two decades. Bannecker’s poster celebrates the transformative power of reading through his signature vibrant and richly layered work.
You can download a high-resolution PDF of the festival poster, plus view and download others through the years from our National Book Festival poster gallery. Stay tuned for more information about printed versions of the poster closer to the festival on Aug. 22 at the Washington Convention Center. This year’s festival is part of the Library’s celebration of the nation’s semiquincentennial, America 250: It’s Your Story.
In an interview, Bannecker reflects on his creative process, the inspiration behind this year’s design, and what it means to create the visual identity for one of the nation’s largest literary celebrations. The interview has been edited for clarity and conciseness.
Library: What was your reaction when you learned you had been selected to create the National Book Festival poster? What about that opportunity appealed to you the most?
Bannecker: One of my favorite parts of being an artist is opening an email about a new project. There's always that moment of excitement and curiosity, wondering, "What is it going to be?" When I realized it was an opportunity to create the poster for the National Book Festival, I was genuinely thrilled. It's such a beloved event in Washington, D.C., and one I've always looked forward to attending, so the chance to contribute to it felt especially meaningful.
Library: This year’s festival is part of the Library’s celebration, America 250: It’s Your Story. Was there an “aha” moment when that theme and the concept for the poster came together for you?
Bannecker: Because the festival falls during America's 250th anniversary celebration, it felt important to lean into imagery that feels instantly recognizable. The bright red, white, and blue palette and iconic Washington, D.C., landmarks helped ground the poster in this unique moment while keeping it fun, optimistic, and full of wonder.
Library: The poster is filled with visual references like national landmarks and a quill pen. Can you walk us through some of the imagery and symbolism?
Bannecker: I wanted the poster to immediately feel like a celebration of books in Washington, D.C. The swirling books, diverse readers, and familiar landmarks work together to create an image that's simple, playful, and full of little moments to discover the longer you spend with it.
Library: Several books appear to fly across the artwork, in a nod to celebrating reading, imagination, and engagement. What role did movement play in your design and what does it say about storytelling in general?
Bannecker: The flying books inject a sense of energy and whimsy into an institution often viewed as formal. They celebrate the idea that stories aren't meant to sit on shelves; they're meant to travel, connect us, and inspire new ideas.
Library: Your work is known for its bold patterns, vibrant colors, graphic shapes and a sense of energy. How does this poster reflect your artistic style?
Bannecker: Bright color has always been a big part of my work, and I try to bring a sense of warmth, joy, and charm to everything I create. I hope this poster makes people smile, invites them into the festival, and becomes something they connect with long after they've seen it.
Library: As a visual communicator, what do you hope festivalgoers notice or feel when they see your poster for the first time?
Bannecker: I hope the poster makes people smile. If they do that, I'm happy.
