EXCHANGE: Librarian challenges readers to expand interests

MENDOTA, Ill. (AP) - A quiet little program at Graves-Hume Public Library in Mendota continues to grow according to director Emily Kofoid.

Kofoid took over as director last summer and has started adding different programs to support her goal of increasing the library's role as a community resource.

The adult book club is just one of those efforts. Kofoid started it in the fall and it's taken on a life of its own.

"We've read everything from historical fiction to modern love stories," Kofoid said. "I'm making most of the (members) read outside their comfort zone.

The most recent selection, "Station Eleven" by Emily St. John Mandel proved her point.

"I cannot tell you how many times I put that book down and said I wasn't going to read it," said Tish Eddy. "But I'm glad; I'm glad I finished it."

Another member, Janice Siemers did not finish the book. It was just too confusing.

"Now, do I have to read it or are you going to tell me?" she asked.

The science fiction novel was filled with symbolism that often had the members debating the method used to reveal the prophet or what the light at the end meant. Those are the sorts of discussions Kofoid hoped to have.

"I do have questions prepared, but everyone talks," she said. "Everyone speaks and we have a good time."

The club originally met at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month. Kofoid has since started an afternoon session for those who don't want to drive at night. That session meets at 1 p.m. and had more than a dozen members attend.

Each of them was eager to discuss the book, even if they weren't sure they liked the story. They still found parallels with the stories of westward expansion and Biblical tribulations.

Kofoid chooses books based on reviews from other sources and she also tries to mix up the genres for members.

She then reads the book along with the club. So far, she's found something to like in all the selections.

Next month members will discuss "The Snow Child," a novel by Eowyn Ivey. Kofoid said she hopes the title isn't self-fulfilling.

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Source: The (LaSalle) News-Tribune, https://bit.ly/2AGYrQB

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Information from: News-Tribune, http://www.newstrib.com