05/29/2026
Three years ago, our Youth Services Librarian decided to try something new: a high school book club unlike any other she had run before. The goal was simple — to create something teens actually wanted to come to.
It became her “Secret Book Club.” Each month had a new invitation and a changing password. Teens would arrive with a book in hand, knock three times on the Mill Room door, and whisper the password to enter.
Inside, the room was transformed into a cozy outdoor scene — a glowing fake campfire, stars projected across the ceiling, cricket sounds playing softly, and blankets spread across the floor. Everyone would take turns using a flashlight to share what they were reading while enjoying snacks (generously provided by the Friends of the Library). Every meeting ended with a game and a prize box.
Over the years, the group grew through friends inviting friends. At one point, there were 14 teens attending regularly, and we even formed a second group for teen boys who earned volunteer hours while participating. As the years passed, many members graduated, moved away, or left for university. Some would still join in the summer or even FaceTime into meetings from school.
Today, there were just four teens (plus one facetime!) at book club, and as more of them prepare to leave for university, it is time for this chapter to come to an end.
But what a wonderful chapter it has been.
These teens didn’t just talk about books. We talked about life — struggles, achievements, and everything in between. Watching them grow into the people they are becoming has been amazing, and the small, magical community we created together is something to remember and be grateful for.
