L.A. Times Festival of Books Moves to USC

This is gonna get that UCLA/USC rivalry pumping: After 15 years at UCLA, the L.A. Times is moving its popular Festival of Books to USC.

The details, via press release:

The Los Angeles Times and the University of Southern California today announced that the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, one of the Southland’s most cherished and engaging weekend celebrations, will kick off its 16th storied year in a brand new home at USC's University Park Campus April 30-May 1, 2011. Angelenos of all ages interested in famous authors, celebrity appearances, speaker panels, superstar chefs and local musicians will have something extra special to look forward as the celebration debuts downtown.

"After 15 years on the Westside, we are very excited to move the Festival of Books to its beautiful new home and have the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with USC to ensure we grow bigger and better in the future," said Times Publisher Eddy Hartenstein. "Attendees and exhibitors can expect more to see, do and experience in addition to great access and a refreshing change of scenery."

Westsiders aren't gonna be thrilled... but for those of us further east, this is good news indeed.

L.A. Times spun the move as good for increased attendance "due to USC’s central location, proximity to public transportation, abundant parking and newly enhanced campus facilities. The Times and the university will work together to best utilize the University Park Campus to expand programming, provide exhibitors and sponsors with the benefit of more usable space for activation and offer sampling, pouring and concession opportunities."

The Festival of Books continues to be a free event. Check out our past coverage of the event here.