Lit Circle: New Platform Tracks Author Events Nationwide

Rebecca George, former co-owner of Volumes Bookcafe in Chicago, has launched Lit Circle, a digital platform designed to connect readers with bookstores hosting author events. The platform, built with technology consultant Patrick DiMichele, aggregates listings for author readings, signings, book clubs, and literary festivals across the U.S., sending alerts to users based on their location. After beta testing in the Chicago area this summer, Lit Circle is expanding to Philadelphia on August 22, with plans to roll out nationwide in the coming weeks. George envisions the platform as the book world's equivalent of BandsInTown, aiming to boost attendance at literary events and support independent bookstores. The platform is free for users, and indie booksellers can link their events to their own sites or to Bookshop.org and Libro.fm affiliates. Lit Circle will not include events at corporate-owned chains like Barnes & Noble or BAM, as George believes those stores already have robust customer communication systems. Future features include a mobile app, a reader passport for tracking visits and tickets, and e-blasts promoting author tours. The platform will also host articles and book reviews. George emphasizes that the goal is to get 'butts in seats' and help readers discover new bookstores, especially as traditional media coverage of literary events declines and social media algorithms limit reach.