Walkden Reading Group: A Community Beyond Books

Reading groups offer more than just a chance to discuss books. They are a space for conversation, connection, and community. At Walkden Library, the monthly reading group has been a welcoming hub for readers; bringing people together through a shared love of reading and lively discussion. We spoke to members of the group to discover why reading groups and libraries more broadly, are such a valued part of their life.

How did you hear about Walkden Reading Group?

A lot of us were actively looking for a group to join when we found this one. We’ve all found it through various different channels. Some of us found it online, whereas other members found out through word of mouth, or from coming to the Knit and Natter group that meets just before the reading group.

What do you enjoy most about coming to the group?

We love that we get to read books that we might not typically choose ourselves. Then, having that opportunity to discus and share an opinion about the book is great too. It motivates us to finish the book; even those that, like we said, weren’t something we would ordinarily have picked out. It’s interesting because through these discussions we get to see a different side to the story, or notice something that we might not have considered. It’s a chance to learn from others as you broaden your reading.

There’s also the social side to the group. It’s a fun chance to get out of the house and have a chat with fellow readers. The conversations are never ending and flows so naturally. It’s a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable to share their thoughts.

What’s been the most surprising thing about the reading group?

Honestly? How bad some of the books are, especially ones you expected to blow you away. That’s the fun of the group though, no matter how good or bad the book is, there’s always something to talk about.

The reverse of that is also true though. Some of the books that we read, Lessons in Chemistry being one for me, have been pleasantly surprising. I thought it had such an interesting concept and we all really enjoyed it. It’s those types of books that unexpectedly stick with you.

It’s also nice to not have to think about what book you’re going to read next, because it’s already waiting for you. Anne, the duty manager here at Walkden library, also does a fantastic job at tailoring the list to make sure we get a little bit of everything.

How important are libraries to the community?

Libraries are vital. They offer such a broad range of services. Walkden library itself is so well used. It’s in a central location for a lot of people in the community so it’s easy to get to. The staff here are always so welcoming and friendly too and always go above and beyond to help.

For us, the reading group gives us a solid time and purpose to come to the library. Some of us weren’t regular users before joining the group, but now a lot of us are. It has shown us just how diverse the services offered here are. There is something for everyone at the library.

What has been the best reading group book?

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus – Historical fiction (set in the early 1960s)/Literary Fiction

The Second Sight of Zachary Cloudesley by Sean Lusk – Historical fiction (set in 18th-century London and Constantinople)/Magical Realism/Adventure

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver – Contemporary Fiction (The novel reimagines Dickens’s David Copperfield in modern-day rural Appalachia, with the story focusing on poverty, addiction, and resilience.)