One of the joys of a reader is to discuss books with other readers.

Many times my family members and I encourage each other to read something we have just finished so that we can talk about the book. This desire to talk about what we've read contributes to the popularity of book discussion groups.

There are book discussion groups for just about every type of book and every age of reader. Some groups concentrate on mysteries or inspirational works, for example. Other groups read a wide variety of books.

People who participate in a book discussion group often say the group has broadened their reading experience.

"One reason I like the book discussion group is that it makes me read authors and subjects that I would not have found on my own," said Mary Ann Depolo of Boyers, who attends a book group at the North Trails Public Library.

Some discussion groups meet at homes or restaurants, but many book discussion groups meet at libraries. Some of the libraries in Butler County host book groups for children or for multigenerational discussions.

For example, during the school year, fifth graders bring their lunches and attend a book discussion group at the Prospect Community Library, which is across the street from the school. The Zelienople Public Library sponsors a mother/daughter discussion group.

Because of expanding interest and scheduling issues, several of the libraries host more than one book discussion group.

Jan Forrest of the Slippery Rock Community Library said, "Our group has grown to 12 members in just a year. We are considering starting a second group which will probably meet in the evening."

The Butler Public Library has a collection of book discussion kits that can be checked out. These are bags with multiple copies of a book along with suggested discussion guides, author information, etc.

The kits are often used by the groups that meet at the county's libraries. However, they also are available to book discussion groups not officially linked to any of the libraries.

Another twist on the traditional book discussion group is the monthly book discussion on WISR, 680 AM radio. Libraries and their book groups take turns discussing a book on the air on the fourth Monday of each month. Listeners can call in with their comments about the book.

For information about book discussion groups in your area, please contact the libraries. Their phone numbers are: Butler, 724-287-1715; Cranberry, 724-776-9100; Evans City, 724-538-8695; Mars, 724-625-9048; North Trails Public Library/Bookmobile, 724-476-1006; Prospect, 724-865-9718; Saxonburg, 724-352-4810; Slippery Rock, 724-738-9179; and Zelienople, 724-452-9330.

Remember that your library card from any of these libraries can be used at all of them. You can visit the online catalog at www.bcfls.org to plan your next trip to the library.

We look forward to seeing you "in the stacks."

Sheila Brown is the administrator of the Library System of Butler County.