Readers: Put down your phone, pick up whatever book you’re reading, and head over to the Box Factory for the Arts to enjoy some quality time with fellow book lovers. There’s no assigned reading, and no agenda to discuss anything in particular.
The Silent Reading Club makes its debut on Tuesday, February 13, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Box Factory. Following a brief group welcome, attendees will simply settle into a comfortable couch or chair and become engrossed in their books. There will be a short break for leg stretching and chit-chatting. Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks are available for purchase.
Entry is free for Box Factory members, $5 for non-members. Reservations are not required. The silent-reading meet-ups will continue on the second Tuesday of each month through May 14. After a summer hiatus and evaluation, they are expected to restart in the fall.
The new reading club is an opportunity for people to relax and read in peaceful companionship with others, according to Box Factory member Linda Schmidt. An avid reader, Schmidt was inspired to start the local group after reading about the trend in New York and other cities. In London, it’s normal for people to read in bars, she noted.
“It’s a low-stakes way of getting out of the house and recharging your social battery. Who knows? You just might discover a new book or a new friend,” Schmidt said. And meeting at the Box Factory has a bonus: “You can look up from your book and see some nice art while you’re there.”
The Box Factory for the Arts is located at 1101 Broad St. in St. Joseph. Visit online at boxfactoryforthearts.org or facebook.com/boxfactoryarts.
