Book clubs or groups have become increasingly popular with the COVID pandemic. “Book Riot” reports in an article published in 2020 that approximately five million people in the United States belong to book clubs both in person and virtual.
Whether you meet at the library, at a public location, in someone’s home, or an online forum to discuss a book, you are part of a movement that builds community, sparks thoughtful conversation and exposes members to differing perspectives.
The Washington County Public Library started an initiative in 2018 to provide book discussion kits to local book groups. The book kits consist of nine or 10 print copies of a book, an audio book (when available), and a list of suggested discussion questions. Additionally, most titles are available as an e-book and downloadable audio. The kits can be checked out for one month by a Washington County library-card holder who is a member of the discussion group—then the entire kit must be returned with all items intact.
The variety of kits which are available include titles for adults in fiction, nonfiction, and inspirational. At this time, the library has approximately 60 book kits just waiting for a book group.
To reserve a book kit, contact Sally Jones, public services librarian at sjones@wcpl.net or call her at 276-676-6391.
