Siouxland Libraries Announces Craig Johnson Visit, October Events

Siouxland Libraries will host New York Times bestselling author Craig Johnson on Oct. 19 and offer adults a monthlong series of programs on horror writing, books and podcasts, including a live murder mystery.

Johnson will discuss his popular "Longmire" mystery series, which follows Wyoming Sheriff Walt Longmire. The books inspired the Netflix series "Longmire." The author talk will take place Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. at the Downtown Library, 200 N. Dakota Ave.

"Craig Johnson's stories have connected with readers because they bring together memorable characters, a strong sense of place and a compelling mystery," said Stephanie Bents, supervising librarian for Siouxland Libraries. "We're excited to welcome him to Sioux Falls and give community members an opportunity to hear directly from him about his work and the stories behind the 'Longmire' series."

Because the library expects high interest in the event, attendees will be selected through a lottery. Community members can enter through 11:59 p.m. Oct. 4. Entering the lottery does not guarantee admission. The drawing will take place Oct. 5, and selected attendees will receive an email notification that day. The event is free to attendees.

To enter the lottery and learn more about Johnson's author talk, visit siouxlandlib.org/author-visit.

Books and merchandise will be available for purchase at the event.

Johnson has received two Western Writers of America Spur Awards for fiction and multiple Will Rogers Medallion Awards. His novella "Spirit of Steamboat" was the first selection for One Book Wyoming. In 2025, Johnson received the Owen Wister Award for Lifetime Contributions to Western Literature.

Siouxland Libraries Presents Scary on The Prairie

Separate from the Craig Johnson author visit, Siouxland Libraries will offer "Scary on the Prairie," a series of adult programs throughout October focused on horror and suspense.

"Scary on the Prairie gives adults a chance to explore different sides of horror, whether they enjoy reading it, writing it, listening to podcasts or solving a mystery," said Kim Koblank, supervising librarian for Siouxland Libraries. "We wanted to offer a variety of programs throughout October so people can discover something new, share their interests with others and have a little fun with the spooky season."

The lineup includes:

Adult Horror Writing Contest | Oct. 1-31

Siouxland Libraries will accept entries throughout October for its Adult Horror Writing Contest. Contest rules and the entry form will be available at siouxlandlib.org beginning Oct. 1.

Horror Writing Workshop | Oct. 3, 1 p.m. | Downtown Library

Dr. Duncan Barlow, an English professor at the University of South Dakota, will lead a workshop on writing about haunted places. Participants will learn techniques for creating atmosphere and tension and use writing prompts to develop short works of fiction.

Horror Book Discussion: "How to Sell a Haunted House" | Oct. 13, 6:30 p.m. | Downtown Library

Participants will discuss Grady Hendrix's "How to Sell a Haunted House." Attendees should read the book before the program and bring their thoughts and questions. Registration is required.

The book contains adult themes. Reader discretion is advised.

Noxhelm Murder Mystery | Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m. | Prairie West Branch

Participants will experience a live murder mystery set in the fictional world of Misty Oaks at Ripper House. They will examine clues, witness accounts and evidence to uncover the house's history and identify the person responsible.

Participants will connect motives, timelines and clues as they investigate the mystery.

Screams From the Basement Live Podcast | Oct. 21, 6:30 p.m. | Downtown Library

Horror podcast hosts Casey Kelderman and Sam Lenz will join Koblank for a discussion about horror books, films and podcasting. The discussion will cover horror themes and tropes, followed by recommendations and a question-and-answer session about horror and podcasting. Registration is required.

For more information about "Scary on the Prairie," including contest details and registration requirements, visit siouxlandlib.org/horror.