Babies, Boats, Beer…and Books? Check Out These Novel Book Clubs!

Does your little one make big noises?

VBPL has a space for you with “BYOB(aby) Book Club” – a judgment-free book club for adults with small children at Bayside Area Library. We’ll talk books while the kids play!

On a recent Tuesday in the storytime room, library staffer Madison Q. led a discussion of “Autopsy of a Boring Wife” by Marie-Renée Lavoie. Moms gathered around while their little ones played with toys on the colorful carpet and a sleepy infant dozed in a stroller.

The discussion bounced from serious to lighthearted as relationship topics from the book were explored. And when a tumbling stack of wooden blocks led to joyful squealing, it wasn’t an interruption – just a quick pause before the conversation started up again. Two moms visiting the library poked their heads in to see what all the fun was about and were invited to join upcoming programs.

Book it to a brewery

Like beer? Like books? You’ll love our “Books on Tap” clubs! Hosted at crafthouses and breweries around the city, these clubs read both fiction and nonfiction, with the selected books available for checkout at specific branches. For information, visit vbpl.librarymarket.com and use the keyword “tap."

Take a little trip

If an out-of-doors experience appeals to your sense of adventure, hit the trail or take to the water with VBPL’s Kayaking Book Clubs and Hiking Book Clubs. You’ll enjoy a leisurely walk or paddle and book discussion led by VBPL staff and in partnership with Virginia Beach Parks & Recreation. Look for upcoming programs at vbpl.librarymarket.com.

With help from Virginia Beach History Museums staff, VBPL’s “History Comes Alive! Book Club” meets at historic homes and museums to bring facets of literature to life. They’ve met under the massive 325-year-old oak tree at the Francis Land House to discuss “A Good Neighborhood.” Herbal remedies were a topic when the group read “The Lost Apothecary” and toured the Lynnhaven House. More events are planned this spring and summer.

Host your own or join us in the library

If you are in a book club or are interested in starting one, our “Community Book Club Kits” have everything you need! Each kit features a popular title, including two large print books, two audiobook CDs, eight or more regular print books and discussion questions. Check the display board at Central Library or our catalog to see what's new in the community.

One of VBPL’s most popular book clubs, “Now Read This,” meets once a month at Kempsville Area Library and is for adults looking to discuss books and enjoy time with fellow readers. Visit vbpl.librarymarket.com and use the keyword “Now Read This” or “Read and Share.”

For fun reading challenges you can complete on your own or sign into Beanstack to register!