Remember as a kid when the ordering and receiving of books was one of the highlights of your life? Whether you ordered a book and a kitten poster from a paper form or were lucky enough to have a school that hosted a book fair, books and "Book Day" were a cause for excitement and celebration.

Well good news – this nostalgic feeling of joy is available this weekend when Awkward Nerd Events host a 90s-themed book fair for adults. 

The 3rd Annual Awkward Nerd Book Fair takes place on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the Tripoli Shrine Center, 3000 W. Wisconsin Ave. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This reimagined, grown-up take on the nostalgic 90s book fair will be the largest yet, thanks to the spacious new venue. 

In addition to more vendors, more activities and more space, this year’s event will feature special guest Mychal Threets, 2024 "I Love My Librarian" award recipient and one of TIME Magazine’s 2024 Next Generation Leaders. His inspiring journey from a childhood spent in his local library to becoming Supervising Librarian and a national literary ambassador makes him a highlight of this year’s book fair.

“We are honored to welcome Mychal Threets to the Awkward Nerd Book Fair this year,” said Lisa Romella, organizer and owner of Awkward Nerd Events. “His work as a librarian and mental health advocate truly aligns with our mission of creating a space where everyone feels welcome and empowered through books.”

In addition to hosting Threets, the Awkward Nerd Book Fair will feature author talks, panels and an expanded vendor area with books, comics and games. Attendees can also enjoy nostalgic crafts like friendship bracelets and loom potholders in the 90s Craft Area.

The fun also includes themed cocktails and mocktails, a photobooth, a fortune-telling machine (bring quarters!) and a special visit from a Red Dog.

"We've taken all the fun, memorable aspects of the classic book fair and compiled it into a day of fun and nostalgia for adults," says Romella.

Get tickets to the Awkward Nerd Book Fair here.