A book loving club is celebrating a milestone anniversary. "Kathryn's Book Club", which began at Heaton Library in 2004, is now marking 20 years of bringing book lovers together. Librarian Kathryn Foster established the group, which quickly gained popularity and even participated in a nationwide competition in 2006 to help judge that year's Booker Prize.
The group, one of only two selected, read and discussed the shortlisted books and had a memorable day in London meeting the judges, which included biographer Hermione Lee and actress Fiona Shaw. After Heaton Library closed in 2012, the club relocated to Heaton Village Club, where it continues to have monthly meetings. 'A lively book club creates lively minds which is brilliant for our health and well-being' (Image: Supplied) In 2015, after Kathryn's death, the group changed its name to Kathryn's Book Group in her memory.
The club, which reads a mix of fiction and non-fiction, continued its activities online during the Covid lockdowns. The members were thrilled to reunite in person once the restrictions were lifted. The club has wide-ranging reading preferences, author visits, theatre outings, and trips to places of literary interest.
The discussions often feature a variety of opinions, ensuring "lively debates". As the group celebrates its 20th anniversary, members express their gratitude for Kathryn Foster's enduring legacy and look forward to many more years of shared reading experiences..