Books change lives
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Please help yourself
“I went to a bookstore and asked the saleswoman, ‘Where’s the self-help section?’ She said if she told me, it would defeat the purpose.” ~ George Carlin I’m excited to introduce the Self-Help Book Club, a new fall program I’ve created for the Blair Memorial Library in Clawson. This unique book club is designed to help lift our spirits and broaden our perspective while providing practical tools to help us manage the challenges of daily life. Each discussion will focus on the key takeaways of a pre-selected (and highly rated) self-help book. Enrollment in the Self-Help Book Club is limited to 12 attendees per meeting, and advance registration is required for each…
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Good company
“Books are always good company if you have the right sort.” ~Louisa May Alcott Have you tried bibliotherapy? Yes, it’s a real thing. According to Psychology Today, bibliotherapy is defined as “a therapeutic approach employing books and other forms of literature, typically alongside more traditional therapy modalities, to support a patient’s mental health.” Though I’ve never had a guided session, I’ve practiced bibliotherapy at home for years. Whenever I need comfort or inspiration, I reread a few favorite authors who lift my spirits, ease my anxieties, or help me stay grounded. Lately I find myself turning to their books more often, like trusted friends. Some are works of fiction; a…
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The joys of reading
“The best moments in reading are when you come across something – a thought, a feeling, a way of looking at things – which you had thought special and particular to you. Now here it is, set down by someone else, a person you have never met, someone even who is long dead. And it is as if a hand has come out and taken yours.” ~Alan Bennett, The History Boys I’m a lucky reader with an active book club in my own neighborhood. Once a month, I get to walk down the street or around the corner to a friend’s home to discuss a novel or memoir that I might…
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Celebrating freedom
“Lock up your libraries if you like; but there is no gate, no lock, no bolt, that you can set upon the freedom of my mind.” ~Virginia Woolf, A Room of One’s Own Wishing you a safe and happy Independence Day with time to reflect on all the rights, privileges, and freedoms you cherish and never take for granted. What freedoms do you value most? ~CL
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Reading
“Reading is a discount ticket to everywhere.” ~Mary Schmich, journalist Today’s quote reminds us that anyone who loves to read is a fellow traveler. Reading opens us to new worlds and ideas — just as touring a foreign country introduces us to different scenery and culture. Likewise, reading a good novel, biography or memoir can coax us out of self-absorption or loneliness — and away from our worries. If you’re stuck in a waiting room, for instance, a good book or magazine will help you pass the time. And as any book club member will agree, books are wonderful conversation starters. Why not visit your local library or book store…
