Next Chapter Book Club (NCBC) , which was awarded the “Innovations in Reading Prize” by the National Book Foundation in 2016, has clubs throughout North America and in other parts of the world. The clubs are designed for teens, young adults, and adults with developmental disabilities. They meet in third places, like libraries, cafes, and book stores and are comprised of four to eight members with two volunteer facilitators who are trained to engage people of all abilities, including emerging readers. Although the reading skills of NCBC members often improve, the program is more about reading to learn, rather than learning to read. The primary focus is on having fun with friends by reading a book together.
At the Glen Ellyn Public Library, there is something for everyone. Youth of all abilities can enjoy Sensory Storytime. Connection of Friends visits the library twice a month, Western DuPage Special Recreation Association (WDSRA) hosts their private book club here, Tales and Travels is presented at our senior residences, and the NCBC is open to all teens and young adults. NCBC is social, casual, and most importantly, empowering to its members, who make choices about how their club will run. NCBC’s ethos of inclusivity and meaningful community align with the outreach and community engagement culture at GEPL.
NCBC is an hour-long meeting twice a month in the lounge on the 2nd floor. We do all our reading together during the club and talk about it as we go. Remember to get here early and grab a beverage or snack from our new cafe to enjoy while we meet! If you would like to sign up, please contact Sarah Kleiva by email at skleiva followed by @gepl.org or 630-790-6745.
Our spring meeting dates are on Wednesdays: March 20, April 3, April 17, May 1, and May 15 from 6:30-7:30 pm.