Celebrating Literature and Community

The Friends Foundation welcomes Anna Quindlen to Ridgewood this spring. Why is this year’s Author Luncheon especially exciting?

We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Anna Quindlen, a New York Times bestselling author and Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist, to our 36th Annual Author Luncheon. She’s a writer whose work resonates deeply with readers, and her newest novel, “More than Enough,” is both timely and emotionally powerful.

The fact that this appearance is part of her national book tour makes it even more special for our community. Tickets are on sale now, but they are selling extremely fast, and we expect a sellout.

For readers who may be new to the event, what is the Author Luncheon, and why has it endured for more than three decades?

For over 30 years, the Author Luncheon has been one of Ridgewood’s most beloved literary traditions. Each year, it brings together nationally recognized authors and local residents for an afternoon celebrating books, ideas, and conversation.

Past speakers have included literary icons like Mary Higgins Clark, Khaled Hosseini, Elizabeth Strout, Min Jin Lee, Jeannette Walls, and Ridgewood’s own Harlan Coben. The event consistently draws more than 400 attendees—a testament to Ridgewood’s strong literary culture and commitment to its public library.

Can you tell us about More than Enough and why readers are responding to it?

“More than Enough” explores what happens when the unexpected results of an ancestry test upend a woman’s life. It’s a story about identity, family, and the friendships that sustain us when long-held assumptions are challenged. Anna Quindlen brings her signature insight, wit, and emotional depth to the novel, and readers across the country have really connected with its themes.

What can attendees expect at this year’s luncheon?

The event is a full, thoughtfully curated experience. Guests will enjoy a cocktail hour with a cash bar, a seated three-course lunch, a meet-and-greet and book signing with Anna Quindlen, an extensive silent auction, a 50/50 raffle, and a moderated conversation followed by an audience Q&A. It’s elegant, engaging, and very much about connecting people through literature.

How does the Author Luncheon support the Ridgewood Public Library?

The luncheon is one of our most important fundraisers. Proceeds directly support the library’s programs, services, and facilities—from free museum passes and ESL resources to educational programming and major capital improvements. Thanks to our donors, the Friends Foundation contributed more than $500,000 to the library last year alone.

What does the Friends Foundation hope the community takes away from this event?

We hope people leave inspired—by Anna Quindlen’s words, by meaningful social interaction, and by knowing that their participation helps ensure the Ridgewood Public Library remains a welcoming, vibrant place for generations to come.

Event Tickets & Book Info

When: Thursday, April 9, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Where: The Terrace, 299 Paramus Rd., Paramus, New Jersey

Tickets are $100 to $250

For more information, visit
supportridgewoodlibrary.org/author-luncheon.