Young readers enjoying new book clubs in Steinbach

The Jake Epp Library in Steinbach has expanded the number of book clubs it offers, and the response has been encouraging. 

Program director Steph McLean says they now have book clubs for people of all ages, and the children seem to be excited about this. 

“Some of them are really avid book lovers, so they’ll read anything,” she says. “And some of them come for the social aspect.” 

Children enjoy the relaxing and fun atmosphere of book clubs at the Jake Epp Library in Steinbach. (Photo submitted)

Mclean says these book clubs provide readers with a fun place to enjoy books and to share with others. 

“It’s neat to have this spot where it’s outside of academics. They’re not being graded on their ability to read. They’re not being graded on their response to the book.” 

She says many of the young book club members are not involved in extracurricular activities at school, so it’s extra special for them to have a book club in the community where they can share their love of books with others in their age group. 

Mclean says they have offered adult book clubs for many years but now, they have been able to expand this programming for readers of all ages, thanks to a Literacy for Life grant through the Winnipeg Foundation. 

This grant provides funding for three years with the expectation that the start-up funds will be sufficient to help sustain these programs after the funding ends. 

-With files from Carly Koop.