The turn of the calendar to a new year has many of us considering what pages we want to turn in our own lives, from learning a new skill, to building (or breaking) a habit. For some, the new year can be a prime time to start on a reading goal, like reading more books, branching out to new kinds of books, or being more intentional about digesting what you read, or joining a book club. That last one can also be a means of reaching other goals, by providing focus, accountability, fun, social time, and a variety of perspectives.

If you want to read more but don’t know where to start, it can help to find a club that reads the kind of books you’re interested in. Book clubs often select a reading list for the entire year, which can eliminate the “What do I read next?” anxiety. Having a small group of people who look forward to seeing each other—and you—each month can motivate you to follow through and read the book (or at least show up to talk about it). 

Discussing books adds another dimension to the reading experience. Book club attendees frequently leave meetings with a better understanding or appreciation of the title in question, having heard the thoughts and perspectives of others. And in clubs where the members help choose the books, you might end up reading something you never would have chosen for yourself, which could lead to a new favorite and will, at least, broaden your horizons.

Ready to explore book club options? You can always start one up with friends who have similar reading goals. But if you’d prefer something ready-made or want to meet new people, Chillicothe Public Library offers a number of book groups to choose from. And while food and drink do sweeten the deal for some, these clubs aren’t just about snacking—the focus is always on fostering worthwhile conversations. The eclectic “Books+Tea” reads a little of everything; “Curiosity & Cheesecake” discusses non-fiction over treats from their sponsor, Triple Dipple’s; “Let’s Taco ’bout It” tackles current hot topics in society; “Super Secret Graphic Novel Club” talks about comics and graphic novels; in the “Guilt-Free Book Club,” attendees talk about whatever they’re reading; and new this year, the “Taste of History” culinary book club is presented in partnership with the Culinary Historians of Northern Illinois.

To find out more, visit www.chillipld.org, stop by the library, or call 309-274-2719.