Once again Julie Dawson of Bards and Sages publishing is sponsoring the eFestival of Words, featuring the 2014 eFestival Best of the Independent eBook Awards. The eFestival offers much more than that, of course, and this year it will all take place from August 23 through August 25.

The eFestival of Words is a free, virtual book fair designed to connect readers with authors and publishers of digital books. For fans of ebooks, this is an opportunity to scout out hidden treasures and interact with authors. For those readers new to digital books, this is a chance to learn more about the format and what it can offer.

The festival features all of the things you would expect from a book fair: lively panel discussions, informative workshops, exciting guest speakers, prizes, games, and more. The only difference is that you can experience everything from the comfort of your own computer! No traveling to obscure locations or overcrowded convention centers. No high tolls and parking fees. No overpriced meals at the hotel because there are no affordable restaurants nearby. Just log in from your computer!

If you have a favorite independent eBook that you’d like to nominate, first read the award info and guidelines. You can view the list of 2013 winners at the eFestival site.

Nominations have already opened, and voting goes on until April 10. Nominees will be announced on May 5.

The awards provide an important peer-review process to find and publicize some of the best eBooks published by indendent authors and small press houses. But whether you take part in the awards process or not, mark your calendar for the eFestival itself. It looks sure to be a lot of fun with some of the most interesting readers and writers around.