Reading is generally a solitary activity, but it doesn’t have to be. Through book clubs you can enjoy the introverted aspects of reading while connecting with others over literature. Not only is it a great way to become more involved in the community, but you’ll also meet new people who share at least one thing in common with you: a love of reading.
One of my favorite things about book clubs is that they expose me to new genres and styles. Some of my favorite books have come from book discussions which I otherwise would not have read. And I always look forward to the discussions where my eyes are opened to new insights, perspectives, and takeaways.
The Library offers several book discussions for adults. Maybe one below catches your eye? If so, we’d love to have you join!
“Books on Tap” is an adult-only (ages 21+) twist to a traditional book club. Participants discuss a book while enjoying the laid-back environment at Backwards Distilling Company, Frontier Brewing Company and Taproom, and The Gaslight Social. Our newest book club, selections tend toward a more literary bent and have included “Exit West” and “Lincoln in the Bardo.” Some nonfiction and even graphic novels are included such as “Born a Crime” and “The Best We Could Do.”
The “Never Too Old” book club discusses young adult literature with adult appeal and is open to both teens and adults, with parent-teen pairs especially encouraged. Like the “Books on Tap” group, it also meets outside the Library at the Crescent Moon Coffee Stop in Downtown Casper where members can enjoy a cup of coffee, courtesy of the Friends of the Natrona County Library.
If you love history, especially Western History, the “Reading the West” book club might be for you. This book discussion is a partnership between Fort Caspar Museum and the Natrona County Library, and meeting locations rotate between the Library and the Fort. We celebrate all things western in this group, reading both fiction and nonfiction.
We’re partnering with the Science Zone to offer a new science fiction book club called “Area 307.” Kicking off in September, selections will include “Fahrenheit 451,” “Station Eleven,” “Burning Chrome,” and “Ender’s Game.” If you have an interest in science fiction, please check back with us in August to register.
Every summer the Library offers a series of book discussions that align with the summer reading program. This year’s theme, “Libraries Rock,” inspired our “Reading Between the Notes” book club. Selections include “High Fidelity” and “Bel Canto” and will take us to Sonic Rainbow CDs and the Casper College Music Building for some lively discussions.
All of the Library’s book clubs are free and open to new members. For more information or to sign up for any of the adult book clubs, visit us at the second floor reference desk.
Betsy O’Neil is the adult services manager at the library.