National Authors Day is observed every year on November 1st. in 1949. Its purpose is to promote writing, encourage people to become authors, and foster a love for reading.

National Authors Day was thought up in 1928 by Nellie McPherson, a teacher (and avid reader) in the small town of Bement, Illinois. She submitted her idea to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in the United States, who endorsed it in May of 1929.  Then, in 1949, the U.S. Department of Commerce officially recognized November 1st as National Authors Day. It has been celebrated ever since!