BRINGING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER

The BIG IDEA is TLCPL’s action plan to build, improve and grow in inclusion, diversity, equity, and access. An essential part of this work is providing our community with resources and materials that inform, challenge, and inspire people to learn more about our shared human experience.

Women’s History Month, celebrated throughout March, commemorates and recognizes the indelible contributions and diverse experiences of women. This designated month provides a platform to honor the achievements of women across various fields and backgrounds, emphasizing their integral roles in shaping history. Learn about Toledo’s suffragettes in our Digital Collections. Visit the Kent gallery to see the works of Mariah Maddox and Carla Thomas as well as at the Maumee gallery which will feature Angela Fowler.
 
At Main Library, the Toledo Area Weavers Guild’s “Threadware — Fiber meets Pottery” is on exhibit in the gallery and “We Are SUA” created by St. Ursula students is on display in the Teen department.


Find the full list of programs and other BIG IDEA initiatives below.

 

Birmingham Book Club

Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini

(Tu) March 19 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Books on Tap

The Lager Queen of Minnesota by J. Ryan Stradal

(W) March 20 | 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Library in the Community

Talk books, socialize, and relax with a cold one at Patron Saints Brewery, located at 4730 W Bancroft St #8, Toledo, OH 43615. 21 and over only.

Register

Her Voice, Her Run

(Th) March 21 | 5:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Main Library

Running for public office can feel like a daunting task. Especially as a woman, where female representation in government spaces is underrepresented. Where do you start? Who can you ask for help?

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Roots and Flowers: The Life of Marta Terry González

Author Discussion with Dr. Abdul Alkalimat

(Th) March 21 | 6:15 — 7:15 p.m. | Kent

Dive into Black Studies with former UT Africana Studies chair Dr. Abdul Alkalimat as he discusses his book on Afro-Cuban librarian Marta Terry González. Traditional Cuban fare will be served.

Register

Edible DNA

(F) March 22 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange

Learn all about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin.

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Edible DNA for Women's History Month

(M) March 25 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Mott

Learn about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin. Enjoy building a DNA model you can eat!

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A Steinem Celebration: 90 Years of Gloria

(M) March 25 | 6 — 8 p.m. | Main Library

Celebrate Gloria Steinem's 90th birthday and the Steinem Sisters Collection's 10th anniversary. Join us for a discussion on libraries as feminist spaces and refreshments!

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BIG IDEA Book Club

How To Say Babylon by Safiya Sinclair

(Tu) March 26 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs

A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.

Register

Edible DNA for Women's History Month

(W) March 27 | 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. | Kent

Learn about DNA- what it looks like and the nearly erased history of scientist Rosalind Franklin. Enjoy building a DNA model you can eat!

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Navigating Transgender Healthcare Legislation

(W) March 27 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Main Library

Join Equality Toledo and a panel of experts for an interactive event to empower parents and allies by creating a greater understanding of the state of transgender healthcare in Ohio.

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Online Romance Book Club

Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

(W) March 27 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!

Register

Women's History Month Music Challenge

(F) March 29 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange

Are you a music aficionado? Put your skills to the test with our music challenge- guess the artist correctly and score points for your team.

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Sanger Teens Book Group

(M) April 1 | 12 a.m. — 11:59 p.m. | Sanger

A read and complete at your own pace program, featuring a different book title each month chosen specifically for 9-12 grade level readers. Continues all month long.

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Music and Movement Playdate

(M) April 1 | 11 a.m. — noon | King Road

A playdate complete with dance, music and stories! This mixed-ability playtime, for children ages 2-5, is offered in partnership with Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Register

Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

(M) April 1 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Washington Book Club

Switchboard Soldiers by Jennifer Chiaverini

(Tu) April 2 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Washington

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Waterville Book Club

The Dressmakers of Auschwitz by Lucy Adlington

(Tu) April 2 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Waterville

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book group is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Local History Book Club

We are the Troopers by Stephen Guinan

(W) April 3 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Main Library

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Inclusive Storytime

(Th) April 4 | 10 — 11 a.m. | King Road

In partnership with the Ability Center, parents and children are invited to talk, sing, read, write and play as we share stories, music and movement. Parent discussion and play will follow storytime.

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West Toledo Book Club

Dial A for Aunties by Jesse Q. Sutanto

(Th) April 4 | 2 — 3 p.m. | West Toledo

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book group is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

Register

Better Toledo | Redlining in Toledo, The Fair Housing Center

(Th) April 4 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library

The Fair Housing Center discussing the community impact of redlining in Toledo

Register

Oregon Evening Book Club

The Mothers by Brit Bennett

(Th) April 4 | 6 — 7 p.m. | Oregon

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Sylvania Book Club

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus

(Th) April 4 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.

Register

Online Wellness Book Group

The Courage to be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi

(W) April 10 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Join us for a virtual book discussion devoted to self-discovery and fulfillment.

Register

Waterville Daytime Book Club

The Churchill Sisters by Rachel Trethewey

(Th) April 11 | noon — 1 p.m. | Waterville

Good conversation, friendly faces, and great books—that’s what book club is all about. We’re looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Point Place Book Club

The Last Flight by Julie Clark

(Th) April 11 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Point Place

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Sylvania Book Club

Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

(Th) April 11 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.

Register

Savory Tarts with Sur le Pouce

(M) April 15 | 6 — 7:30 p.m. | Washington

Create your own savory tart in this fun French cooking class.

Register

Birmingham Book Club

Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt

(Tu) April 16 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Oregon Book Club

Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston

(Tu) April 16 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Oregon

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Books on Tap

Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton

(W) April 17 | 7:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Library in the Community

Talk books, socialize, and relax with a cold one at Patron Saints Brewery, located at 4730 W Bancroft St #8, Toledo, OH 43615. 21 and over only.

Register

Online Comic Book Group

Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satrapi

(Th) April 18 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Do you love comics and graphic novels (or looking to get into them)? Join us as we discuss some of the most thought-provoking and artistically striking comics from across a variety of genres.

Register

BIG IDEA Book Club

Carry: A Memoir of Survival on Stolen Land

(Tu) April 23 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs

A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.

Register

Maumee Book Club

Horse by Geraldine Brooks

(W) April 24 | 10 — 11 a.m. | Maumee

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Online Romance Book Club

Forget Me Not featuring Author Julie Soto

(W) April 24 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!

Register

Celebrating Arab American Heritage in Northwest Ohio

(F) April 26 | 2 — 4 p.m. | Sanger

Celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of the Arab community, while becoming aware of current challenges.

Register

Rice around the World

(F) April 26 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange

Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.

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Human Library

(Sa) April 27 | noon — 3 p.m. | Main Library

A Human Library is where "books" are real people that "readers" check out to discuss shared experiences, differing perspectives, challenge bias, stereotype and prejudice through personal conversation.

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Kimono Culture

(Tu) April 30 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Toledo Heights

This informative overview will cover yukata basics, kimono accessories, tools to help you get dressed, seasonality and other tips for wearing kimono.

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Music and Movement Playdate

(M) May 6 | 11 a.m. — noon | King Road

A playdate complete with dance, music and stories! This mixed-ability playtime, for children ages 2-5, is offered in partnership with Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Register

Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki

(M) May 6 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Maumee

Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.

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Sound Bath with Singing Bowls

(M) May 6 | 4:30 — 5:30 p.m. | Point Place

Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!

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Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

The Leavers by Lisa Ko

(M) May 6 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki

(Tu) May 7 | 3:30 — 4:30 p.m. | Sanger

Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.

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Sound Bath with Singing Bowls

(Tu) May 7 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Sylvania

Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!

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Sound Bath with Singing Bowls

(M) May 13 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Oregon

Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!

Read More

Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki

(Sa) May 18 | 10 — 11 a.m. | King Road

Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.

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Meet Children's Author Angela Shinozaki

(Sa) May 18 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Heatherdowns

Celebrate Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month with a reading of Yasuko and the Dream Eater by local author, Angela Shinozaki including special activities after the reading.

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Sound Bath with Singing Bowls

(M) May 20 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Waterville

Relax to the sounds of a singing bowl sound bath performance by local artist Jennifer Bak. We invite you to bring your own yoga mat, wear comfortable clothes, and meditate with us at your library!

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Small Town PRIDE!

Southernmost by Silas House

(M) May 20 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Holland

A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.

Register

BIG IDEA Book Club

Biting the Hand: Growing Up Asian in Black and White America

(Tu) May 28 | 5:30 — 6:30 p.m. | Online Programs

A discussion group dedicated to diverse voices, perspectives, and authors. We'll aim to construct a meaningful conversation about anti-racism and embrace the diversity of our community.

Register

Rice around the World

(F) May 31 | 4 — 5 p.m. | Lagrange

Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.

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Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

Remembrance by Rita Woods

(M) June 3 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Better Toledo | Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities

(Th) June 6 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library

Learn about disability etiquette, language usage, respectful interactions; best practices for fostering a disability-inclusive workplace culture; tips for recruiting, hiring, and supporting employees

Register

Pride & Poetry

(Th) June 13 | 6:30 — 8:30 p.m. | Reynolds Corners

Read, share, watch, and experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors - and share your own.

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Sylvania Book Club

Conjure Women by Afia Atakora

(Th) June 13 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion. Registration Required.

Register

Pen to Palette Book Discussion with Toledo Museum of Art

(Sa) June 15 | 1 — 2 p.m. | Library in the Community

Interested in the intersections of art and prose? Read a book, then meet in-person for a personalized tour featuring objects, arts and cultures from our chosen book.

Register

Rice around the World

(M) June 17 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange

Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.

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Reproductive Justice with Solace Health & Wellness

Steinem Sisters Collection Talking Circle

(Th) June 20 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Maumee

Solace Health & Wellness owner, Erin Martin, will join us for a discussion on reproductive justice: what it means, where we are today, and what we can do in the future.

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Online Romance Book Club

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

(W) June 26 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!

Register

Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

The Lady's Handbook for Her Mysterious Illness, Sarah Ramey

(M) July 1 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(W) July 10 | 2 — 3 p.m. | Oregon

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

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Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(W) July 10 | 6 — 7 p.m. | Holland

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

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Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(Sa) July 13 | 11 a.m. — noon | Sylvania

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

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Rice around the World

(M) July 15 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange

Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.

Read More

Birmingham Book Club

The Hospital by Brian Alexander

(Tu) July 16 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

Read More

Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(W) July 17 | 11 a.m. — noon | Reynolds Corners

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

Register

Pride & Poetry

(Th) July 18 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

Read, share, watch, and otherwise experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors—and share your own.

Read More

Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(Sa) July 20 | 11 a.m. — noon | Waterville

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

Read More

Adapted Chair Yoga featuring Integration Yoga with Jenn

(M) July 29 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | King Road

Explore yoga through traditional poses redesigned for a sitting position. Based upon attendees' needs, extra poses may be added suited for standing while using the chair for stability and support.

Register

Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Regan Barnhill

(M) August 5 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Pride & Poetry

(Th) August 15 | 6:30 — 8 p.m. | Main Library

Read, share, watch, and otherwise experience poetry about and by LGBTQIA+ authors—and share your own.

Read More

Rice around the World

(M) August 19 | 3 — 4 p.m. | Lagrange

Every culture has a unique way of cooking. Learn about a new culture every month as we recreate a rice dish.

Read More

Birmingham Book Club

The Holdout by Graham Moore

(Tu) August 20 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Women in Politics

Steinem Sisters Collection Talking Circle

(Tu) August 20 | 6 — 7:30 p.m. | Sylvania

Local elected officials will lead a discussion on their journeys to public office and what issues they see ahead for women in Lucas County.

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Family Pride Night

(W) August 21 | 6 — 8 p.m. | Main Library

Enjoy family-friendly games and activities in honor of Toledo Pride.

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Small Town PRIDE!

Countries of Origin by Javier Fuentes

(M) August 26 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | King Road

A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.

Register

Online Romance Book Club

Something Wild & Wonderful by Anita Kelly

(W) August 28 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Online Programs

Are you sick of being shamed for loving romance? Join our Online Romance Book Club! From enemies-to-lovers to regency era, fantasy to fake-relationship, we'll read and chat across the romance genre!

Register

Better Toledo | Welcoming

(Th) September 5 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library

Hear on the topic of "Welcoming" from the BGSU Institute for the Study of Culture & Society

Register

Birmingham Book Club

Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See

(Tu) September 17 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

(M) October 7 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley

(M) November 4 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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Better Toledo | Cultural Invisibility by Jessica Vallejo

(Th) November 7 | 3 — 5 p.m. | Main Library

Jessica Vallejo from the Committee of 500 Years of Dignity and Resistance discussing the impact of Cultural Invisibility on the Indigenous community

Register

Birmingham Book Club

The Henna Artist by Alka Joshi

(Tu) November 19 | 2 — 3:30 p.m. | Birmingham

Good conversation, friendly faces and great books - that's what book club is all about. We're looking forward to seeing you at our lively and engaging book discussion.

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Small Town PRIDE!

Becoming Nicole by Amy Ellis Nutt

(M) November 25 | 6:30 — 7:30 p.m. | Holland

A traveling book group rotating between different small-town library locations.

Register

Steinem Sisters Collection Book Club

Revival Season by Monica West

(M) December 2 | 7 — 8 p.m. | Sanger

A discussion group dedicated to feminist reading from the Library's Steinem Sisters Collection.

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