Interest Groups

Meets the first Monday of each month, 10:00 a.m. – noon.

This group explores a wide range of thought-provoking books that participants may not typically choose on their own. Sessions are guided by prepared materials and focus questions from members who volunteer to facilitate a discussion, that encourage in-depth discussion, multiple perspectives, and respectful debate. Members value the intellectual challenge, lively exchange of ideas, and welcoming atmosphere.

Upcoming Topics for CRDG

• Of Boys and Men: Why the Modern Male is Struggling, Why It Matters, and What to Do About It by Richard Reeves
• Autocracy, Inc. by Anne Applebaum
• The Supermajority: How the Supreme Court Divided America by Michael Waldman
• Origin: A Genetic History of the Americas by Jennifer Raff
• Number Go Up by Zeke Faux

Meets the third Monday of each month, 10:00 a.m. – noon.

This group examines current global issues and international events through readings, podcasts, and participant-led presentations. Discussions draw on the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and expertise of members, creating a forum for thoughtful, informed conversation without judgment. 

Upcoming Topics for World Affairs

• February 16:
  • Eurasia Group - The Top Risks of 2026
  • GZERO podcast
• March 16:
  • "What could they have possibly been thinking?" Applying concepts from Peter Senge. What mental models do you utilize when forming opinions and taking actions?
• April 20:
  • What are rare earths? Why are they so important in today’s competitive world?
• May 18:
  • Topic to be determined

"I participate in Contemporary Readings simply because the group picks great books I wouldn’t probably read on my own and I ALWAYS gain insight and a different perspective that challenges me during the discussion. Having been a member of lots of groups in the past, one thing I’ve learned is that if the group chooses books that everyone loves based on what they read for pleasure, it’s a different experience. After everyone says how much they like the plot the writing style, and the characters, what else is there to say or do but drink wine and eat snacks? I’ll take a bit of good-natured push-and-pull any day." – Linda Capriati

"I like that the discussion groups provide a forum for exploring topics in depth. The fun part is that the discussion topics are generated and presented by the participants, [so] we get to enjoy the breadth of knowledge that exists within our own community." – Donn Jamtaas

"I participate in the ALL book club and discussion group because I learn things every month! I have read books I would never have chosen on my own. Even if I didn't appreciate the book, the group discussion makes the various topics much easier to understand and grasp. The discussion group helps me understand what's happening around the world. Our members, with their various backgrounds and experiences, can help me relate and offer ways to get involved if I'm interested." - Paulette Peterson

"I have been exposed to a wider variety of interesting books in CRDG than I would have found on my own. The CRDG sessions provide stimulating in-depth discussions of each book as the leaders prepare thought-provoking handouts in advance. These often include links to interesting author interviews, literary critic reviews and other resources to expand our understanding of the topic. The leaders also provide a list of focus questions, which help to keep our discussion on track and explore a variety of perspectives on the topic. The CRDG sessions are welcoming environments where participants feel comfortable openly sharing their opinions, even when a given opinion might be in the minority. For example, it is good to have some people who dislike a given book explain why; this leads to a more stimulating discussion, having different points of view. I often find that I continue to think about a given CRDG discussion and the book itself for several days afterwards. Especially when we are seniors, I think it is very important to enjoy cerebral stimulation of this type. Hopefully it helps to stave off Alzheimer's/dementia! Not to mention, it is just very fun. I have met new friends in this group too." - Michele Menzies

"The mix of genders and backgrounds that the participants bring to the Contemporary Readings Discussion Group makes for some great discussions. The suggestions for books expose me to ideas and viewpoints that are often new to me. Frequently background information and links to author interviews provide a means to expand my understanding of the book's subject matter. A very worthwhile use of my time!" - Lynne Pendleton

"I find the World Affairs group to be a welcoming community, offering engaging chats via Zoom with old friends I’ve moved away from, but not let go of… and new friends from elsewhere on the planet… thoughtful people, who can provide on-site direct observation and reflection on international events of concern.

Discussion of topics that I care about, among people who have traveled, read well and widely, and think critically… without judgment or ridicule of divergent questions and perspectives.

Zoom access is easy, requiring little to no technical knowledge. If there happens to be a glitch, help is easily, patiently, and readily available." - Kay Wolsborn (ALL’s past political science instructor)

"Two things I really like about the Contemporary Readings Discussion Group are that it takes me to books I might not pick myself and turn out to be fascinating, and the wide range of knowledge, experience and reading approaches that the members bring to the discussion. Additionally, even though the process for selecting the books is by nomination and vote, the group seems to always select diverse, interesting and challenging books. I really look forward to our monthly meetings and prioritize those times." - Tim Surratt