Here’s the Conference program and registration materials for the upcoming First Biennial John Updike Society Conference at Alvernia University, October 1-3. It promises to be a memorable event, though registration closes on September 12 and to get the conference rate at Homewood Suites you’ll need to book your room by September 2.

Conference updates:  Lincoln Perry, who will deliver the keynote address with his wife, writer Ann Beattie, will be bringing the actual artwork from his series of paintings inspired by Updike’s Rabbit novels. The artwork will be on display in the room where Beattie and Perry will deliver their remarks. Also, Steve Soboroff, the collector who purchased the Updike typewriter that was recently auctioned by Christie’s, has generously agreed to display the typewriter at the conference. Not only that, but attendees will have the chance to type on it!

Ninety-four members have registered to attend the conference, with 43 opting to attend the closing dinner at the Peanut Bar, which will serve as a nice closure for our first conference.

Site director Dave Silcox, program director Jack De Bellis, teacher’s seminar directors Richard Androne and Joseph Yarworth, and the people at Alvernia University have been working hard to make the conference a memorable one. We’ll look forward to seeing you all in Updike territory in just a little over a month. Please remember to use the Updike Society Facebook page if you want to solicit rides or riders from the Philadelphia International Airport. Note too that there’s a regional van service from Philly International to Reading.

Pictured are the Reading Public Library, where Saturday’s social event will be held, and the Peanut Bar, site of the final dinner.