The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books 2026, held on April 18–19, 2026 at the University of Southern California campus, once again brought together book lovers, authors, publishers, and creatives for a vibrant celebration of literature. Known as one of the largest literary festivals in the United States, the event featured panel discussions, book signings, live performances, and countless booths filled with stories waiting to be discovered. The atmosphere was lively and inspiring, offering something for every kind of reader.
Citi of Books proudly took part in this year’s festival, connecting with attendees from all walks of life. Their booth became a welcoming space where visitors explored a diverse collection of titles and learned more about the company’s publishing and marketing services. Throughout the two-day event, the team engaged in meaningful conversations with aspiring authors, avid readers, and fellow industry professionals, making the experience both productive and memorable.
The participation of Citi of Books in LATFOB 2026 was a valuable opportunity to showcase their growing catalog and strengthen their presence in the global book community. Being surrounded by passionate storytellers and curious readers allowed the team to gain fresh insights into current literary trends while building new relationships. The energy of the festival reflected the shared love for storytelling, reinforcing Citi of Books’ commitment to helping authors bring their work to a wider audience.
Attending book events like the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books continues to play an important role in connecting stories with readers. It opens doors for collaboration, discovery, and inspiration that go beyond the pages of a book. As Citi of Books carries this momentum forward, readers are invited to explore featured titles in their Book Gallery, including “The Pictorial History of New Haven Missouri Advertising” by Randy Schwentker.
Randy Schwentker grew up in the small town of New Haven Missouri. New Haven is a community steeped in it’s rich German heritage that is nestled in Missouri’s wine country and located along the Missouri River about 60 miles west of St. Louis. When he was young, his parents had a tavern/restau rant just east of town. He was exposed at an early age to people that he was able to grow up with and learn from over the years. They moved into town in 1960 when his father took a job with the Pepsi Cola Bottling Plant and his mother took a job with Kellwood, a manufacture of tents and outdoor recreational equipment. He grew up with his brother in one of the older neighborhoods in this small town that had some history about it. A number of early business owners also lived in that part of town.
Over the years he gleaned information from them that would eventually become the premise of this book. His next door neighbor, who incidently was the town historian and a school teacher didn’t realize she was prepping him to this love of local history. He is a member of the New Haven Preserva tion Society and is interested in the history of the surrounding area and towns. In his spare time he is also an avid collector of rocks, old advertising, old bottles, native american artifacts and fossils. He also likes to paint and create scuptures with petrified wood.
Some of the most valuable pieces of history were once given away for free.
That thought perfectly sets the tone for “The Pictorial History of New Haven Missouri Advertising” by Randy Schwentker, a fascinating book that turns everyday items into windows to the past. During the 2026 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, this unique title found its place in the spotlight at the book gallery, inviting visitors to explore a side of history that often goes unnoticed but is deeply meaningful.
At the Citi of Books display, readers were drawn to how this collection tells the story of New Haven not through dates and events, but through the evolution of advertising. From simple hand-marked crates to vibrant lithographs, each piece reflects how a small town grew, adapted, and connected with its people. It is both nostalgic and eye-opening, showing how something as ordinary as a promotional item can carry generations of stories. The book feels like flipping through a time capsule, one that brings back memories of community life, local businesses, and the charm of early Americana.
What makes this feature even more special is how it resonates with today’s audience. In a time when most things are quickly discarded, this book reminds us of the value of preserving the little things. Festival-goers found themselves not just browsing, but reminiscing and reflecting. “The Pictorial History of New Haven Missouri Advertising” is more than a display piece. It is a celebration of heritage, making it a must-see and a must-read for anyone who appreciates history told in the most unexpected and delightful way.
BOOK FAIR SNAPS
