The Wayne College Library’s Fireside Readers book discussion group recently marked its 20th anniversary this fall, commemorating two decades of fostering a vibrant literary community. Established in October 2005, Fireside Readers has welcomed area residents alongside Wayne College students, faculty and staff. Through engaging monthly discussions, the group has cultivated a rich tradition of exploring memoirs, biographies, and an array of nonfiction works that encourage thoughtful conversation and personal growth.
Since its inception, the group has been guided by a spirit of inclusivity, inviting both long-standing members and newcomers to share their perspectives. Some participants have been involved since the earliest meetings, while others join when a particular book captures their interest.
The milestone 20th anniversary celebration, held on Wednesday, November 5th, was a testament to the group’s legacy. Maureen Lerch, Wayne College Library Director, curated a display featuring every title read throughout the past twenty years—a remarkable collection exceeding 200 books. Attendees enjoyed reminiscing and discussing past selections, and as part of the festivities, the group voted on their favorites and least favorites, resulting in “Hall of Fame” and “Hall of Lame” booklists. Notably, Elizabeth the Queen and The Arbornaut were unique in earning recognition in both categories.
All previous book selections are available for viewing on the Wayne College Library’s website and each title is housed within the library’s current collection for patrons to explore further. This comprehensive archive reflects the group’s commitment to intellectual curiosity and the sharing of diverse narratives.
The Fireside Readers meet on the fourth Monday of each month, with breaks observed during the summer and winter holidays. Gatherings take place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the community room adjacent to the library, where participants enjoy light refreshments and a welcoming atmosphere. The group’s open-door policy ensures that new members and guests are always encouraged to attend, regardless of whether they’ve read or finished the book of the month.
Between meetings, Fireside Readers maintain connections through their dedicated Facebook group, offering ongoing opportunities for discussion and camaraderie. The group is also listed on Goodreads, providing an additional platform for members to engage with one another and track their reading journeys.
As Wayne College celebrates the enduring impact of Fireside Readers, the group continues to enrich the campus and local community with meaningful dialogue, shared passions and the transformative power of literature. For more information, including meeting dates and access to the complete book list, visit the Wayne College Library website or connect with Fireside Readers on social media.
