Three American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters have volunteered to translate the two author presentations and the children’s story time session at the Arizona Author Book Festival in downtown Phoenix on May 3, 2026. This aligns with our festival goals for inclusivity, and we’re grateful for our volunteers.

Heather Novak, a current intern with the Phoenix College Interpreter Preparation Program, was the first to answer our call for volunteers. She is set to graduate in May 2026 and is looking forward to providing communication access for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Hearing people throughout the community. As an avid reader from a young age, Novak can often be found with her nose in a book and a massive stack of to-be-read (TBR) books beside her. 

“I’m looking forward to combining my passions for ASL and books together,” Novak said. “And I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to volunteer for this exciting festival.”

She will be joined at the festival by fellow student interpreters Kristina Schrader and Savannah Diaz. We appreciate their service to the community. We’re also grateful for Joni Horn at Arizona Freelance Interpreting Services and Mallory Watts for helping us locate interpreters willing to donate their time and energy to make the festival as inclusive as possible.

Learn more about our free community festival at www.azauthorbookfestival.com.