For some, joining a book club hosted by Westerville Public Library has brought some surprising benefits. Recent survey results show how book clubs help combat loneliness and expand people's reading experiences.
Many book club members agree that the camaraderie and lively discussions has become a highlight of their month. As one book club member described, "Our group of random people has become a group of friends."
"I don't get out often. The friendship, information, and laughs are a boost! It's incredibly special," shared another member.
Another benefit that members have highlighted is the exposure to books that they wouldn't have selected otherwise. "It's clear that my reading selections would dwindle without benefit of our (usually lively!) discussions." And they may even change their mind about a book after hearing what other members thought about it. "If I like a book or not, the opinions of others may lead me to take the book a second time and try again."
Even the library's cookbook club has similar benefits. "The variety of recipes and cheerfulness of the crowd was much fun. Being a scratch cook has not made me more creative, but perhaps a bit too 'stuck in her ways,' but it would be fun to ask friends over with something more creative than 'family favorites,' applesauce loaf and barley soup!!"
Many members also described the welcoming nature and kindness of staff and fellow readers. "Our librarian and the members of our group make you feel like family. They are very well read and knowledgeable. I wouldn’t trade them for anything."
One book club member summed it up well by saying, "We enjoy one another's company so much that we now meet for lunch before each book club meeting...The thought-provoking conversations that our group has during our meetings are life-affirming, and leave me with renewed faith in humankind."
Interested in joining a book club? For a full schedule, view the events calendar.
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