Library book clubs have something for everyone

We often remark that there’s something for everyone at the library, and as I’m working on our fall calendar of events now, it occurs to me that the library’s book clubs are a great example of the diversity of offerings.

The Philosophy Reading Group truly “dives into the deep end.” The group meets weekly at the Picton Branch Library and engages in a very close reading of a philosophy text. The next series will begin on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 5 p.m. as the group digs into Existentialism from Dostoevsky to Sartre, edited by Walter Kaufmann.

The book is considered one of the foremost resources on existentialism and is described as a “must-read” for philosophers – both armchair and professional. New members are welcome.

On perhaps the other side of the scale, the “Not Your Average Book Club”, meeting at the Bloomfield Branch monthly, takes a very light and friendly approach.

Each month, the group chooses a genre, topic, or theme, and each participant picks their own book to read. Library staff are happy to help you find the right book that fits the theme – previous examples have included romance, Irish books, books with mothers and more. The group picks up again after a summer break on Tuesday, Sept. 15 at 2 p.m. and will be discussing favourite summer reads. You get to hear a little about a lot of books and leave with some recommended reads.

The Reconciliation Reading Group, offered in partnership with the Prince Edward County museums and with Jane Macdonald, is a great way to engage with books around the topic of reconciliation. The next meeting of the group is to be Saturday, Sept. 26 at 1:30 pm, with facilitators Macdonald and Jessica Chase leading the conversation around the book “Everyday Reconciliation.”

We were thrilled to host authors Derek Aronhie:nens Montour and Elin Sandberg Miller earlier this spring as they talked through their book which provides both an Indigenous and Settler perspective on Canada’s relations with First Nations.

These are just a few of the book clubs that meet at the library – there are many more. If you are interested in getting involved there is sure to be a group that interest you – and if there isn’t, why not start one? You can reach out to me by email liz@peclibrary.org or (613) 393-3400 and I’ll help you get started.

Also, click here to check out the library website for more fall programs.

Mark your calendars for the 2026 Milford Fall Fair, Sept. 19, where the Friends of the Milford Branch will have their annual book sale and children’s activities.