Everything a reader needs at Elkhart Public Library

The library is here for everyone. Plus, we have everything readers need, too.

From finding a book to read, a discussion group or a reading challenge, we have it covered.

Readers advisory

Librarians love to make suggestions for people who need something to read. They pride themselves on having a recommendation.

EPL offers MatchBook, an online form for our staff to suggest a book you’ll love. Available for children’s, young adult and all other genres, with a little bit of background about your preferences, you can get some suggestions on what you’ll love to read next.

To stay up-to-date on the newest titles in our collection, sign up for our NextReads newsletters. These monthly newsletters span genres to give readers a glimpse of the latest books added to the library stacks with some information about the book, too.

If you still can’t find what you’re looking for, you can come in and ask in person for a book recommendation, make a purchase suggestion, or ask for a book through interlibrary loan.

Discussions

EPL offers monthly book discussions at most locations.

These groups are a chance to meet other readers and enjoy a variety of books across genres.

Cleveland Branch hosts a unique group with no assigned book. This allows participants to share whatever they’ve read recently and share their thoughts. Other groups pick out the books they will read ahead of time.

The full list of discussion groups can be seen here.

For existing discussion groups or those looking to start their own, EPL offers Book Club Kits.

These kits include 12 copies of the book and information for starting a book club or jump-starting a discussion. Titles for Book Club Kits are available in fiction, non-fiction and juvenile selections, making them great for teachers, homeschoolers or adults.

Kits can be checked out for 90 days and can be picked up at any EPL location. See available Book Club Kits here.

Reading challenges

To encourage and promote reading at all ages, EPL offers reading challenges.

The Summer Reading Challenge is just for kids and is the signature library program. It runs from mid-May to mid-July each summer. Look for more information in May or click here.

The Winter Reading Challenge is just for grownups and runs throughout January and February. Look for information on that challenge around mid-December or click here.