Cataldi
How do you find new books to read
Do you peruse what’s available at your local bookstores or libraries? Do you look at the New York Times Book List or see what the celebrity book clubs are reading? Do you rely solely on recommendations from friends and family? Or are you like me and are always swayed by the latest titles highlighted on BookTok?
There is no right or wrong way to find a good book to read, but if you need help in that department, the Johnson County Public Library would love to help you out.
If you come to any of our four locations in person, we have great book displays that are changed monthly. Display themes can range from cozy mysteries to inspirational to heart-pounding thrillers to “romantasy” — they are always changing and eye-catching!
We also have Book Page magazine, which is free to take home, highlights upcoming books and has great interviews with authors and illustrators. There are also staff picks, so you can see what we’re reading (spoiler: I’m always reading the weird stuff — it’s my downfall), and we love it when you come to the front desk and ask for help finding a book to read. We will gladly give you lots of options and ideas.
If you don’t like to leave the comfort of your house, we have some options for you. Our website, PageAfterPage.org, has some great curated book lists created by staff members that you can peruse. You can also sign up for our newsletter and get new reading recommendations directly in your inbox every couple of weeks.
If you want something a little more personalized, you can fill out a “Find Your Next Book” form and let a team of librarians find the perfect book to match your likes, dislikes and mood. Trust me — we have as much fun finding the perfect book for you based on your interests as you will when you read the selections we’ve curated for you!
It’s not just for adults, either. We can assemble book bundles for kids. Going on a road trip or wanting to learn about something for school? We’ve got you covered. We can put together some great resources for you.
For teens, we have a monthly subscription service called Lit Loot. Lit Loot is a service that is included at no charge with your library card and is available to teens. Lit Loot bags contain a mix of library items, crafts or swag, and a book you can keep (for the first 50 teens), selected just for you, based on your favorite literary genres and other interests.
So what are you waiting for? Find your next great read at the Johnson County Public Library. We’ve got something for everyone!
Erin Cataldi is the Adult and Teen Services Librarian at the Clark Pleasant Branch of Johnson County Public Library. JCPL staff members share in writing this twice-monthly column for the Daily Journal. Send comments to [email protected].
