The annual book convention, Readers Take Denver, which drew thousands of literature enthusiasts and writers to the Gaylord Rockies convention center in Denver, Colorado, from April 14 to 17, has found itself embroiled in controversy due to the mismanagement of its 2024 event.
Attendees and authors alike expressed disappointment and frustration with the event’s organization, sparking outcry and vows from many to boycott the 2025 installment, despite tickets for the next event already being made available.
Criticism mounted as reports surfaced of lengthy registration queues, with some guests enduring waits of up to three hours due to insufficient staffing. Shortages of essential items such as lanyards, swag bags, and even bottled water, further exacerbated by an oversold event, left attendees feeling underserved and disenchanted.
Allegations of theft, confrontational behavior from volunteers, including instances of verbal abuse and physical aggression towards authors and attendees, marred the convention’s atmosphere, tarnishing its reputation.
Renowned author Rebecca Yarros shared her disillusionment in a Facebook post, recounting her experiences and highlighting the event’s failure to accommodate the influx of attendees. Despite her efforts to extend signing times, limited slots and an inadequate allocation of resources left many readers disappointed and unable to engage with their favorite authors.
Furthermore, reports emerged of security breaches, with individuals from another convention gaining unauthorized access to Readers Take Denver events, leading to instances of sexual assault and compromising attendee safety.
Authors also voiced concerns over overcrowding and insufficient resources, with some forced to conduct signings from the floor due to a shortage of tables, undermining their professional experience and limiting interactions with fans.
The convention’s strict no-refund policy left dissatisfied attendees with no recourse for recouping their investment, exacerbating their sense of disillusionment.
Adding to the grievances were exorbitant drink prices and inadequate bar staffing, with attendees facing long waits and limited options at social events, further diminishing their overall experience.
Despite the widespread backlash, Readers Take Denver remains steadfast in its plans to host another convention in 2025, scheduled for February 6 to 9, although tickets have yet to go on sale. The organizers face a daunting task of regaining trust and rectifying past shortcomings to restore the convention’s standing within the literary community.
