Lee Child, author of the bestselling “Jack Reacher” series, is the featured speaker for this year’s H. Louise & H. E. "Ed" Cobb Speaker Series presented by the Friends of the OSU Library.

The dinner, keynote and book signing will take place from 6 to 9 p.m, Nov. 9, at the ConocoPhillips OSU Alumni Center in Stillwater.

Debbie Clemons, coordinator of stewardship and external relations for the OSU Library, said Child was chosen to headline the event thanks to the broad appeal of his work. His "Jack Reacher" series spans more than 20 novels, has sold nearly 100 million copies, and is the basis of the films starring Tom Cruise.

“For book lovers, this event is a rare opportunity to hear firsthand stories from successful authors,” Clemons said. “So many of our board members and donors have told me they are excited to hear the stories behind their favorite 'Jack Reacher' novels.”

Tickets for the event are limited. Individual admission is $100, and half the cost is a tax-deductible gift to the Friends of the OSU Library. Tables and sponsorships are also available. To purchase tickets, visit the website or call 405-744-7273.

The Friends of the OSU Library help provide students with the books, materials and equipment they need to be successful in their studies. Proceeds from the series allow the Library to improve physical spaces, inspire with special programs and museum-quality exhibits, and launch new services, such as technology checkout programs and extended hours of operation.

The Cobb Series is entering its 28th year. Past authors have included James Patterson, Nicholas Sparks, Neil deGrasse Tyson, Ken Burns, S.E. Hinton, Doris Kearns Goodwin and Kurt Vonnegut.

The event is made possible each year through an endowment created and supported by the Cobb family. For more information about the event, visit the website or contact Debbie Clemons at debbie.clemons@okstate.edu.