Back for its eighth year, and bigger than ever, Books by the Banks will bring a record 130 authors to Cincinnati Oct. 11 for book signings, meet and greets, panel discussions and more.

Books by the Banks, the region’s largest book festival, attracts thousands of people to downtown Cincinnati for an exciting day dedicated to celebrating the love of reading.

The festival takes place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 11, at the Duke Energy Convention Center, downtown, 525 Elm St.

This year, visitors will meet some of the hottest names in literature, including:

• Emily Giffin, writer of six New York Times best-sellers including “Something Borrowed” that was adapted for the big screen in 2011 as a major romantic comedy starring Kate Hudson. Her latest book is “The One & Only.”

• Hampton Sides, one the most popular names in literary non-fiction. His book “Ghost Stories,” a World War II narrative, sold more than one million copies worldwide and was the basis for the 2005 Miramax film, “The Great Raid.” His latest book is “In the Kingdom of Ice: The Grand and Terrible Polar Voyage of the USS Jeannette.”

• Marc Brown, beloved children’s book writer, creator of the “Arthur Adventure” book series and co-developer of the hit PBS television series. His latest books are “In New York” and “Marc Brown’s Playtime Rhymes: A Treasury for Families to Learn and Play Together.”

• John Scalzi, one of the most-acclaimed science fiction authors of the last decade. His bestsellers include “The Last Colony,” “Fuzz Nation” and “Redshirts.” His latest book is “Lock In.”

• Philip and Erin Stead, the husband and wife team behind the prestigious Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book, “A Sick Day for Amos McGee.” Philip Stead’s latest book is “Sebastian and the Balloon.”

• Plus many more including: Smith Henderson, “Fourth of July Creek;” Grady Hendrix, “Horrorstör;” Katherine Howe, “Conversion;” Tiphanie Yanique, “Land of Love” and “Drowning;” and Dave Zirin, “Brazil’s Dance with the Devil: The World Cup, the Olympics,” and the “Fight for Democracy.”

“This festival is a great example of a community coming together,” said Greg Edwards, Books by the Banks board president. “With the combined support of local libraries, businesses and community organizations, year after year, we’re able to provide the best event around for anyone who loves books and reading.”

In addition to the Author Pavilion, where fans can buy books and meet their favorite writers, there are many more activities during the festival. The popular Kids’ Corner, showcasing top-notch performers and day-long activities, has been expanded this year to make even more room for free balloon sculptures, face painting, acts such as Joel Caithamer, the Singing Librarian and more.

For the first time ever, the festival has added a Teen Area.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.booksbythebanks.org.