Book Club
Tue, 10/07/2025 - 6:10pm
admin
A Literary Haven for Friendship & Discussion
By:
Rachel Riley - TPD Editor
As Joyce Becker beautifully stated, “If you love to read, you’ll feel right at home.”
CRESCO - At the Cresco Public Library, a unique gathering of book lovers comes together monthly to explore new literary worlds and nurture lasting friendships. The Cresco Book Club, started in 2010 by Linda Labosky, began with just five members and has since blossomed into a community of about ten enthusiastic readers. Linda sought to connect with her new neighbors after moving from out of town, and with a simple inquiry to the library, she helped launch what is now a cherished local tradition.
Current members take turns selecting the monthly reads, ensuring a diverse range of genres that sparks engaging conversations. This month's selection, Simon the Fiddler by Paulette Jiles, promises an exciting historical narrative that has everyone eager to delve in. As Kathleen Koudelka noted, “We never know what our next book will be. This particular book I picked is because it is both historical and has a story line.”
The book club prides itself on avoiding certain topics to maintain harmony; while political books can be thought-provoking, they prefer to steer clear of them. “What I enjoy most is the discussion and being exposed to things I normally wouldn’t read,” shared Janis Rockabrand, reflecting the club's intent to explore a variety of themes and topics without friction.
With a limit of around 15 total members due to the library’s capacity for obtaining books, the club benefits significantly from the interlibrary loan program. This system allows readers to access a wider selection of titles and ensures that every book chosen has enough copies for all participants. The library has been integral in helping them obtain and choose the books, as well as providing a meeting place for them each month.
Members often encourage newcomers from the community to join, welcoming anyone who shares a love for reading. “All of these ladies are lovely,” said Janna Vaalemoen, capturing the warm fellowship that defines their meetings. Even after the book club is over, members often go enjoy lunch together at a local restaurant, it is a meeting place of the minds that need to be fed.
From this story’s writer’s perspective, the group was lovely and welcoming. As I walked into the meeting room at the Cresco Library, they were animatedly discussing their previous book selection, Have You Seen Luis Velez? by Catherine Ryan Hyde, chosen by Joyce Becker. The lively exchange revealed how much everyone enjoyed it, a testament to the book club's ability to foster meaningful dialogue.
As the discussions unfold, friendships continue to deepen, creating a cozy sanctuary for book lovers in Cresco. Whether you’re a seasoned bibliophile or just looking to explore new stories, the Cresco Public Library Book Club is a warm and inviting place to call home. As Joyce Becker beautifully stated, “If you love to read, you’ll feel right at home.” So why not join in and add your voice to their next captivating conversation?
Read on ladies!
