Hidden World Anthology launches Mar. 13

The release of “Hidden World: A Lower Columbia County Writers Anthology” coincides with the debut of Stories by the River Festival, a month-long celebration of Columbia County writers at St. Helens Public Library.

“The library’s enthusiasm has been incredible,” says Anthology Project Coordinator Ellen Jacobson. “The fact they want to build an annual event that celebrates local authors is an unexpected windfall.”

Jacobson and fellow anthology organizers Mike Exinger, Sharon Hughson, and Jana Mann have formed the Columbia County Authors Alliance (CCAA). This entity is partnering with the local library to present writer-focused workshops, as well as many reader-focused events. The festival runs Saturday, Feb. 14, through Saturday, March 14, 2026.

To wrap up the festival on March 14, CCAA invites the community to the Columbia Center auditorium to celebrate the anthology’s release at 12:30 p.m. Contributing authors will be on hand to talk about the inspiration behind their stories. Refreshments will be served.

Prior to the celebration, a book sale featuring titles from local authors —including “Hidden World” —runs from 10 a.m. to noon in the hallway outside the auditorium.

“Hidden World” releases on March 13, 2026, in paperback and ebook formats. For information regarding pre-orders, follow Columbia County Authors on Facebook or visit their website at columbiacountyauthors.com. For additional information or interviews, contact Project Coordinator Ellen Jacobson by emailing her at lowercolcoantho@gmail.com.

Workshops and events featuring local authors begin with a panel on the publishing industry Thursday, February 19, at the Stories by the River Festival. A full list of events can be found on the Columbia County Authors Alliance website or by picking up a brochure at the St. Helens Library.