The first thing I did after moving to Baltimore was to join my local library. A few years ago when I was going through a particularly difficult time and developed insomnia, I started listening to book CDs to relax and distract my mind from worrisome thoughts. It works for me every time. When it seemed I had listened to all of the CD books in two local libraries in NC, I joined RecordedBooks.com and, for a monthly fee, CDs would be sent to me. A reliable small CD player costs less than $20. I had to search for a CD player with buttons and labels large enough so I could see them at night without putting on my glasses. Small speakers for the CD player can be bought for about $15.
In addition to using books to deal with insomnia, reading books can also be a pathway to meeting others. How often do you read a book and want to share your thoughts about that book with someone else? Most of the libraries in the Baltimore County Public Library (BCPL) system have book discussion groups, also called book clubs. Some are in the morning and some in the early evening. Anyone living anywhere in MD can join the BCPL. The local libraries that have book clubs are:
Arbutus 410-887-1451
Catonsville 410-887-0951
Cockeysville 410-887-7750
North Point 410-887-7255
Parkville 410-887-5353
Perry Hall 410-887-5195
Pikesville 410-887-1234
Randallstown 410-887-0770
Reisterstown 410-887-1165
Rosedale 410-887-0513
Towson 410-887-6166
The BCPL website at http://www.bcpl.info/yolib/yoliprog.html contains more information including times and dates. Other counties in the area may have similar activities. Another possibility is to attend a book club started by individuals. A good website for those is http://bookclub.meetup.com/cities/us/md/baltimore/. One nice thing about those set up by individuals is that they may have another activity like having dinner out or even a night at the movies. Churches also often have book clubs.
One does not have to read the entire book to attend these discussions (however, it may be wise to limit your opinions for content that you have not read). From my personal experience, I know the first step is just going to see what is like. You do not have to make a long time commitment. If you find you are not comfortable with that particular group, you can always try another group to find a better fit.
Comments
Several of the Baltimore area library book groups invite authors to join their discussions --I know because I have been that author! That's a great way to enrich your experience of the book.
Kelly Simmons, author of STANDING STILL
bykellysimmons.com
This is a great idea for seniors, or anyone who wants to meet more people. I belonged to a book group when I had small children, and formed good relationships. Thanks for your reminder!
Kelly, thank you so much for your comment. being able to ask questions of actual authors about their work is a great opportunity.
You are so right. I regularly use my library -- it doesn't cost anything! -- and belong to two book groups.
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