By Gloria Hinrichs, Class of 2016
Not know there was a pandemic on the horizon, the Enrichment Committee had brainstormed and planned for lots of fun and enriching gatherings for both docents and volunteers throughout 2020. Then the pandemic hit, and most of our plans just couldn’t go “virtual”. No one wanted to go totally dark in 2020, so the committee decided to launch a virtual bi monthly book club in July.
But book clubs conjure up images of cozy living rooms, light snacks and likely a bottle or two of wine. Would the conversation flow as easily with members distanced and only visible via Zoom? To keep the familiar book club intimate atmosphere, with lots of opportunity for conversation, the committee committed to leading multi0le cohorts of 12-14 registrants.
We started in July when the club read Genius of Place, the Life of Frederick Law Olmsted by Justin Martin. Over four weeks, two cohorts enjoyed lively discussions about the incredible varied life and career of this visionary, each week paralleling the four sections of the book.
In September, we tackled Nature’s Metropolis, Chicago and the Great West by William Cronon. Membershi0 grew and we led three cohorts, with three weekly sessions, again paralleling the volume’s sections. All participants agreed our second selection was more challenging but provided us with useful insights and spurred many great discussions of the current role and future potential of the city of Chicago, using the sociological and economic lessons learned.
In November, the Book Club will feature The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson, suggested by the Education Committee to coincide with the All Docent Day curriculum. Given the social unrest that has swept our nation, the Chicago Architecture Center is committed to address the issues of race, equity, and inclusion through our tour content, docent recruiting, community program and all aspects of its activities.
Registration for the November Book Club opens on Friday, October 16 and closes on October 29. CLICK HERE for the form. Sessions will be held the weeks of November 1, 9, 15 and 29 (skipping the week of Thanksgiving). Exact days/times will be finalized after registration concludes and the number of cohorts needed is determined.
The Book Club is for fun and enrichment. There are no judgements or tests. Discussion participation by all is encouraged and respected. Come join us.