While many were excited for a white Christmas this year, plenty others are dreading the “winter blues” that could follow. Anyone who’s braved a Wisconsin winter knows that the chilling temps and snowy weather, while sometimes providing a lovely snow globe landscape, can often lead to decreased socialization, less activity and trips outside the house, and for some folks, even seasonal depression.
But there is one social activity that keeps the brain active and is perfectly suited for cozy winter days: curling up with a good novel and discussing it with a local book club.
According to Eventbrite, book club events grew by 31% in 2024 compared to 2023, leading some to speculate that the book club boom is a reaction to the increasing sense of isolation caused by social media. According to Psychology Today, book clubs increase social connection, which combats loneliness. What’s more, sharing thoughts and opinions can improve social skills, build confidence and improve self-esteem. Book clubs also offer a space to explore other perspectives, which can enhance personal growth.
“Reading becomes so much more when it’s experienced with others,” said Haley Bunkelman, library specialist at Marathon County Public Library. “When people join a book club, every club member’s understanding of that book is transformed as they put their reading into their own words and listen as others do the same. Books don’t stop when we close them; in fact, when someone joins a book club, the benefits of reading are just beginning.”
Marathon County Public Library hosts book clubs every month at most branches. Book club meetings consist of one hour-long meeting to discuss that month’s book. No registration is required.
“We also want people who are thinking about joining a book club at the Marathon County Public Library to know that they don’t have to attend every monthly meetup or read every book,” Bunkelman said. “Our book clubs are no-pressure get-togethers where folks can come for a good time and a positive dialogue. Nearly everyone is thinking about reading more in the new year, and our clubs are a great tool for helping people reach their goals or maybe just get excited about reading again.”
Nearby MCPL book club meetups for January 2026 include:
For more information on upcoming MCPL book club meetups, visit mcpl.us/series/book-club. Additional book clubs may be found on Eventbrite or Facebook events. A list of local book clubs can be found on the Janke Book Store website at jankebookstore.com/page/book-clubs-in-wausau.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here