Dive into Summer Reading: Book Clubs!
Summer is finally here, bringing longer days, sunshine, and the perfect opportunity to dive into a great book. It's also the ideal time to check out Summer with the Milwaukee Public Library. Our Summer Reading program has officially begun, and joining a book club might be just what you need to stay on top of your 
reading goals this season. While a good book can transport you anywhere, sharing the experience makes it even better.
There's something truly special about discussing a story with others. It's not just about what you read, but how different perspectives can illuminate new facets of the narrative. You might enjoy discovering hidden meanings, challenging your own interpretations, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow book lovers. A book club offers a fantastic way to engage with literature and connect with your community.
MPL offers a variety of book clubs, catering to different genres and interests. Whether you're interested in reading novels, seeking a thrilling mystery, a history buff, a romance enthusiast, hoping to learn about a new cultural experience, or something else, there’s likely a club for you. It is also a wonderful chance to step outside your usual reading habits and explore new authors and genres you might not have picked up on your own. Plus, the discussions are led by our wonderful librarians, adding an extra layer of insight to your reading experience.
Beyond the literary benefits, joining a book club is a great way to meet new people and expand your social circle. In an increasingly digital world, these in-person connections are more valuable than ever. Imagine lively conversations, shared laughter, and the joy of discovering common ground with new friends, all centered around a shared love of books.
So, how do you get started? It's simple! Head over to MPL’s Events Calendar or, even better, pop in and ask a librarian. There, you will learn about our current book club offerings, meeting schedules, and how to sign up. Genres and clubs may vary slightly by location, so keep looking until you find what fits you best.
Looking to Start Your Own Book Club? We Can Help!
Perhaps you have a specific group of friends in mind, or maybe you're interested in a book or genre that isn't currently offered by our existing clubs. The good news is, MPL can still be a huge asset in starting your own book club!
A valuable library resource available for all you aspiring book club organizers is book club kits. These kits are a game-changer! Not only do we offer Adult Book Club Kits, we also have Teen Book Club Kits and Children's Book Club Kits. You can search for all kits in the CountyCat system just by entering "book club kits" in the search engine. Here's what you will find in a typical library book club kit:
- Multiple copies of the book: This is the core of the kit, ensuring everyone has access to the chosen title.
- Discussion questions: Pre-written questions designed to spark engaging conversations and help you delve deeper into the themes and characters. This is a huge time-saver for any book club leader!
How to start your own book club using a book club kit:
- Gather your members: Talk to friends, family, or colleagues who are interested in reading and discussing books.
- Choose a title: Browse our catalog of book club kits. This is a great way to discover new books and it ensures everyone gets a copy.
- Reserve the kit: Once you've chosen a book, reserve the kit. Enjoy an extended check out period to allow ample time for everyone to read the book and for your club to meet.
- Set a meeting date and location: Decide when and where your club will meet. This could be at a member's home, a local coffee shop, or book a quiet spot in one of our study/conference rooms.
- Facilitate the discussion: Use the discussion questions provided in the kit to guide your conversation. Encourage everyone to share their thoughts and opinions.
Whether you join an existing club or start your own, leveraging the resources MPL offers is a fantastic way to enrich your summer and connect with the wonderful world of books and the people who love them. Happy reading!
