For many, reading books is considered a hobby for introverts, people who prefer to stay by themselves rather than being surrounded by others. However, as society becomes more open to connections and group activities, book clubs gained popularity those seeking community and conversation, proving that things have changed.
Dr. Laura Veltman, professor of English and associate dean for the division of arts and letters, explained why book clubs have become popular.
“Particularly after COVID, people are seeking human connection. It also reminded people why they like to read because they couldn’t connect in person as much during that time,” Veltman said. “Many people were also writing books during COVID, maybe because they were craving an opportunity to talk to people about those books. And sometimes, I think that book clubs aren’t just about the books; they are more about hanging out with friends, getting coffee, and learning about each other’s lives.”
Book clubs can broaden readers’ perspectives and help them become open-minded. James Welch, senior English major and president of the Creative Writing club, mentioned additional benefits.
“In general, I think it brings better literary skills and critical thinking. It can also improve your writing skills, and that is very important because it is helpful to find a job,” Welch said. “Even in those fields beyond creative writing, it’s crucial to be able to express your thoughts well on paper.”
Books can also influence society’s thoughts and actions. Madisen Sharp, senior English major, explained how reading shaped her identity.
“I strongly believe that the books I read shape me as a person. Whether I agree or disagree, reading a story or a subject creates passion,” Sharp said. “Whether it be building yourself off of a character, or learning lessons from a story, it can build you in so many different ways.”
Sharp also shared a lesson learned through reading and discussing books.
“A lesson I have learned is that literature is what you make it. A story can spark a whole range of different feelings and emotions for every person. Whether you hate or love the book, there will always be someone else who thinks differently from you,” Sharp said. “Books helped me unlock parts of myself I never knew I had before. It helped me understand people in the same way I could understand characters by reading stories from a whole different perspective. Books represent key parts of humanity.”
In a world dominated by technology and fast-paced routines, Veltman reflected on why book clubs feel unique.
“I think that it is perhaps unique today that people are choosing to set aside all of this plug-in entertainment and all that requires electricity or battery to use the technology of the books,” Veltman said. “Because books are a type of technology. One fascinating thing about books is that they are a way more persistent technology than your phone. You can buy a book, and 20 years from now, you can still read the same book. But you won’t have the same phone for 20 years, so I think books are the most enduring and affordable technologies that exist.”
As people began valuing community and conversation again, book clubs became a way to connect, learn and grow. While technology continues to fill daily life, book clubs remind readers that stories are meant to be shared.
