As Online Book Club Shutters, Try These Other Opportunities for Great Reads
Posted on December 5, 2024 at 11:30 am
By Gwendolyn Haley
Since 2020, Spokane County Library District has brought readers together virtually with the SCLD Online Book Club, offering a space to discuss five selected books each year.
This initiative emerged during the pandemic, a time when gathering in person wasn’t an option. It offered a much-needed social connection for local readers, drawing in participants for discussions on an array of titles.
However, after four years, SCLD has decided to discontinue this program due to a steady decline in participation over the past two years—signaling that the demand for a virtual book club experience has faded as in-person options have returned.
Though the online book club has come to an end, SCLD still provides a variety of interactive and exciting ways for book lovers to connect and find new reads. Here are some great alternatives for those who enjoyed the online book club experience.
SCLD Online Author Series
Readers can attend live, online talks with popular authors through the SCLD Online Author Series.
This series is an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy diving deeper into a book by hearing directly from the author. It offers an interactive experience where you can ask questions and gain insights into the writing process, plot, and themes of featured works.
And if you are stumped for your next read, you can look ahead to see which upcoming authors will be part of the series or search past speakers to find an author and book that sounds interesting.
Book Clubs at Local Libraries
For those who prefer face-to-face discussions, some local libraries host in-person book clubs. Check SCLD’s event calendar to join a book discussion group near you.
Or you could even start your own book club at the library. Library staff can assist you with reserving space and resources, to create a personalized club experience in a welcoming setting.
Book Discussion To-Go Bags
Host your own discussion group at home with SCLD’s Book Discussion To-Go bags.
These bags are complete with multiple copies of a book and discussion questions, providing everything you need to start a meaningful conversation with friends or family.
Find Your Next Read
SCLD offers several resources and services for readers searching for book suggestions:
- Digital Resources: Online tools like NoveList Plus and SelectReads provide tailored book suggestions based on your interests.
- Curated Booklists: Our collection development librarians create wonderful booklists that you can find in our catalog and on OverDrive and in the Libby app. You’ll find lists for kids, teens, and adults on a variety of topics, including seasonal holidays, genre favorites, informative nonfiction, and popular, intriguing subjects.
- Book Butler: This personalized service is provided by our library staff, who help you find books curated just for you, based on what you’d like to read.
- Online Reading Challenges: Through the Beanstack website and mobile app, you can sign up for reading challenges that encourage exploring new genres and tracking your reading.
- In-Person Book Suggestions: With so many books on the shelves, the choices can be overwhelming. You can talk to library staff and let them know the type of book you are looking for. Staff are always ready to provide reader advisory services.
SCLD continues to support readers through innovative programs and resources, ensuring everyone can find their next great book or take part in an engaging literary discussion. We’re here to help find your next great read and all the rest after that!
Gwendolyn Haley is a Public Services Manager with Spokane County Library District. It’s a big job that on any given day might include robots, concerts, new gadgets and things, special events, and everything in between. She has a passion for learning new things and loves to help people ignite their curiosity and discover new passions.
Tags: adults, book butler, book club, book suggestions, booklists, books, community, digital resources, reading
