Alternative Book Club Brings Library Discussions to MB&G

The Mahwah Public Library is teaming up with a local restaurant to offer readers an alternative-style book club.

The library announced in a recent release that its new book club, Books & Buds, will start October. It works sort of like a traditional book club, except its meetings aren’t at the library. They’re at Mahwah Bar & Grill. So, book discussions happen over food and drink.

And, members don’t get an assigned book to read. They will get a general theme each month, then be asked to read a book of their choice that reflects the theme. They’ll also get a list of recommended choices, to make the selection process easier.

On the first Monday of each month, they will gather to discuss the different books.

“The goal of the program is to make it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible,” Allison Moonitz, the Supervising Librarian at the library who will moderate the book club discussions, said. 

“We’re purposely trying to do something fresh and different - by not having a mandatory title for each month’s meeting, you don’t have to worry about making some kind of deadline or being assigned to slog through something you have no desire to read.”

Moonitz also said she hopes the alternative location and more relaxed atmosphere will help attract “fresh faces” to the club.

Themes will be different, too, the library said.

October’s theme is “Getting to Know You,” where participants are invited to bring along some of their favorite titles to share and discuss with the group. Future discussion topics will include “Holidays from Hell” (books that focus on dysfunctional families) and “Love Stinks” (anti-romantic selections).

Books & Buds will meet at 7 p.m. on the first Monday of each month, starting October 7.

The library will also continue to run its traditional book club at 10:30 a.m. on the third Monday of every month.

Get more information or sign up for the club at www.mahwahlibrary.org or 201-529-7323 ext. 225.