For two years now, I’ve enjoyed being part of Prime Time for Women’s Monthly Book Club. In addition to making new friends and exploring local restaurants, I’ve read books I wouldn’t have picked up on my own and learned about genres of books I’d like to explore more.

Recently, I sat down with fellow members, Tisha May and Brenda Finley, to talk about how we find the books the group has selected, by vote each December, to discuss each month. Here’s a list of resources we’ve used:

1. Washington County Free Library: A reader can borrow books from the library, by browsing the catalogue or using the Libby Application (App) for electronic books and the Hoopla App for audio and/or electronic books. It’s even fun to read the book or electronic book, along with an audio book version. The library has a feature that allows you to place a hold on a book or have it sent to the library closest to you, for check out.

The library also has a great summer reading program each year for all ages. Prizes are included. Look out for Summer 2025 details on the library’s web page.

2) Purchase a used copy of a book from on-line and/or local sellers:

BookBub – electronic books; on-line

Thrift Books – hard copy and paper back; on-line

Wonder Books – save $1 on cost with free delivery to the store at 607 Dual Highway in Hagerstown

2nd and Charles – hard copy or paper back; Hagerstown location

3) Free electronic books:

One can use a search engine to type in the title of a book, followed by the words free to see if there is a free download available. Some other websites include: Project Gutenberg, Many Books, and Get Free Books.

4) Local book sellers:

Next Chapter Cafe and Book Shop – opening in downtown Hagerstown, MD at 141 W. Washington Street in 2025

Turn the Page Bookstore – Boonsboro, MD

Regardless of where you source your books, full price, low cost or free, here are some ideas you can use to support the authors you read. Each option costs nothing but a bit of your time:

1. Write a review.
2. Recommend a book to a friend.
3. Follow the author’s social media and engage with their posts.
4. Subscribe to the author’s newsletter.
5. Cheer them on or give them a shout out on your social media.

Hats off to reading books, because we all know reading expands our knowledge, improves vocabulary and communication skills, reduces stress, enhances empathy, and boosts brain health. Happy reading all!