Washington library hosting ‘book club of letters’

The Washington Public Library has started a 'book club of letters,” where patrons will read a book and then jot down their thoughts about the book for the next reader to view.

'The purpose of this book club of letters is to connect us in the old-fashioned way, by writing letters,” said adult services librarian Tammy Valentine. 'I want us to share our thoughts with each other in a way that allows each of us to be honest. You may sign your name or not, it is up to you. I will keep all letters written with the books, so each patron can read what the previous patrons wrote.”

The rules for the club are as follows:

1) Read the discussion questions.

2) Read the book.

3) Write a letter to the next patron who reads this book. You may answer the discussion questions or write your own thoughts.

4) Return the envelope with all the letters, including yours, when you return the book in the book drop.

Books to read:

'No Time Like the Future: An Optimist Considers Mortality” by Michael J. Fox (memoir)

'Fear is Fuel” by Patrick J. Sweeney (non-fiction/self-improvement)

'The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane” by Lisa Lee (fiction)

'Librarian Tales: Funny, Strange, and Inspiring Dispatches From the Stacks,” by William Ottens (non-fiction)

To sign up for the club, call Valentine at 319-653-2726 or email her at tammy.valentine@washington.ib.ia.us.