Bailey’s Book Signing Draws Record Crowd at Antwerp Library
Community members filled the Antwerp Branch Library Thursday evening to celebrate the release of The Rings of Saturn: A Game Warden’s View of the Universe, the first book by retired Ohio Wildlife Officer Duane A. Bailey.
The event attracted one of the largest crowds ever for an author program at the library. Library Director Cory Walker attended the signing himself after hearing about the outstanding attendance at previous author events and wanted to see the community response firsthand. He was delighted by the turnout as readers, family, friends, former colleagues, outdoor enthusiasts, and members of the community gathered throughout the evening. Visitors continued to arrive during the event as Bailey shared stories from his more than 32-year career with the Ohio Division of Wildlife, answered questions from the audience, and signed books.
Among those in attendance were Bailey’s wife, Sharon, along with his children, and grandchildren, who came to celebrate the publication of his first book. Their support added a special family atmosphere to an evening that marked the realization of a lifelong dream. Following Bailey’s presentation, guests visited with the author, shared stories of their own, and lined up to have books personally signed.
Published by West Bend Printing & Publishing, The Rings of Saturn is a collection of true stories spanning Bailey’s career in conservation law enforcement. Filled with humor, adventure, and thoughtful reflections, the book offers readers an authentic look at life as a game warden and the many memorable people and situations Bailey encountered while serving northwest Ohio.
The evening also became a celebration of local authorship. Fellow West Bend Printing & Publishing author George Forrest attended the signing, along with several aspiring authors interested in publishing their own books. Guests visited about writing, publishing, and preserving local history and personal experiences, highlighting the growing interest in books written by local authors.
By the end of the evening, nearly all of the books brought for the signing had been sold, making a second printing likely in the near future. Bailey expressed his appreciation to everyone who attended and supported the project, while many visitors remarked how much they enjoyed hearing the stories behind the book.
West Bend Printing & Publishing extends its appreciation to Cory Walker and the staff of the Antwerp Branch Library for hosting another outstanding author event. The record-setting attendance and enthusiastic community support demonstrated that locally written books continue to resonate with readers and highlighted the growing success of West Bend Printing & Publishing’s mission to bring the stories of local authors to life
