Celebrating 50 Years of Publishers Group West

FREE, $10–15 suggested donation

Sponsored by Publishers Group West

From a shoestring investment of $500 in 1976, Berkeley-based Publishers Group West grew, by the turn of the century, into the US’s largest distributor of independent presses. Since then, it’s maintained its focus on resilience, innovation, and a passion for independent publishing—not to mention the value of throwing a really great party. We’ll toast to a half-century of PGW, which continues to distribute books for 150 publisher clients, including some beloved local presses. How does PGW’s history reflect the larger story of Bay Area publishing? And how can lessons learned over the past fifty years inform its future? Join PGW founder Charlie Winton, executive VP Sean Shoemaker, VP of field sales Elise Cannon, and Litquake co-founder Jack Boulware for a walk down memory lane—and stick around to buy a beverage or two from Clio’s on-site bar. Doors at 6:30pm.