Book Lovers Study Club kicked off the 2021-2022 year with an in-person meeting, which was held in the Russellville First Baptist Church Green Room.

Even though the COVID virus is still hanging around in some form, it did not prevent members from attending.

Serving as co-hostesses were Brenda Oliver and Lela Ray. New club president Nina McNatt presided over the meeting.

Leah Masterson, treasurer, distributed the club’s yearbook and presented the budget for approval.   A review of each month was given and projects approved.

Cheri McCain presented an informative program on the GFWC Epsilon Sigma Omicron program.

ESO is an honorary education society open to all GFWC club members. The Alabama Chapter was established in 1961 and is called Alpha Zeta.

Through ESO, clubwomen are given direction in a planned reading program for self-enrichment and personal growth. Cheri stated, “Many of the books on the Alabama ESO Reading List are by Alabama authors, about Alabama and the South, or are award-winning or recent bestselling books.”

She suggested ESO pledges should follow the national ESO guidelines.   

The recommended books are divided into 23 subject categories. The lists are updated and based on best-seller lists, American Library Association lists, Pulitzer and other prize lists and GFWC related topics.

Interested club members received the ESO Alpha Zeta Chapter Pledge form and lists of books.  Cheri serves as the GFWC Alabama Education and Libraries/ESO chairperson.

In the business session the membership voted to postpone the Victorian Christmas event as the December fundraiser.

Members made their monthly donation to the Canine Companion Organization.

Registration information regarding the GFWC Alabama North District Fall meeting was given out to members. The meeting will be held in October at Poppy’s Place in Double Springs. The program will be on the Free State Four Paws, a dog rescue group.