The Summit County Library’s Book to Film Club is set to bring a thrilling and engaging discussion to its members as they delve into Richard Osman’s popular novel, "The Thursday Murder Club." This meeting will take place on January 8, 2026, via Zoom, providing an opportunity for both avid readers and movie enthusiasts alike to interact and share their insights. The club has been a staple of the library since its inception in 2014, meeting every second Thursday of the month to explore books that have been adapted into films. Library Director Daniel Compton, who co-founded the club with former Kimball Junction Branch Manager Joe Frazier, emphasized the importance of choosing titles that resonate with the community. "The Thursday Murder Club" is a mystery novel that follows four retirees who engage in solving cold-case murders for fun but find themselves embroiled in a more recent crime. Compton noted that the book’s engaging plot and relatable characters make it a perfect fit for their audience, particularly as it appeals to a demographic that includes senior citizens. In a unique twist, the club will not screen the film adaptation at the library due to licensing restrictions. Instead, members are encouraged to watch the film at home, as it is available on Netflix. "This way, we can still have an engaging discussion about both the book and the film," Compton explained. The film, directed by renowned filmmaker Chris Columbus and featuring stars such as Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley, and Pierce Brosnan, was released earlier in 2025. Given the high-profile cast and the book's existing popularity, excitement around the discussion has been palpable among club members. For those interested in participating, registration is available through the library’s website, and Compton has urged potential attendees to sign up ahead of time. Interested individuals can register online at summit.events.mylibrary.digital, email Compton directly at dcompton@summitcountyutah.gov, or call the library at 435-615-3900. Compton also highlighted that all books selected for the Book to Film Club can be checked out digitally via the Libby app or in person at the Summit County Library. Despite the popularity of Osman’s novel, Compton faced challenges in securing enough copies for all members. He revealed, "I did warn the club that they may have to read the physical copy of this one. There are currently about 1,000 to 2,000 holds on this title statewide due to its popularity in our consortium." While the library has ordered additional physical copies, Compton encouraged members to consider purchasing the book through local bookstores or online to ensure they can participate fully in the discussion. The Book to Film Club has evolved since its original formation, where it struggled to attract a large audience. Compton and Frazier conceptualized the idea of discussing books alongside their film adaptations as a means to increase engagement, and the strategy has proven successful. "We found that people were more interested in coming to discuss a book that had a movie counterpart," said Compton. "It allows for a richer conversation and makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone." The club usually meets in person at the Kimball Junction Branch auditorium but has occasionally transitioned to online discussions like the upcoming Zoom meeting. This flexibility allows a wider audience to participate, regardless of their location. "Even if people don’t want to read the book, they can still watch the film and join the conversation," Compton noted, reflecting on the diverse backgrounds and perspectives that members bring to the discussions. As the club prepares for their upcoming meeting, Compton expressed his enthusiasm for the vibrant community that has developed over the years. "We have members who have been with us from the beginning, and their dedication is what keeps the club thriving," he stated. "The diversity of experiences and opinions enriches our discussions and makes each meeting a unique experience." The Summit County Library’s Book to Film Club is a testament to the power of literature and film to foster community connections. As members gear up to explore "The Thursday Murder Club," they are not only engaging with a captivating story but also strengthening the bonds within their community through shared experiences and dialogues. Details for the upcoming discussion are as follows: - When: January 8, 2026, at 5 p.m. - Where: Zoom - Registration: summit.events.mylibrary.digital - Contact: 435-615-3900 - More information: thesummitcountylibrary.org This engaging format of blending literature with film continues to attract diverse participants, ensuring that the Book to Film Club remains a cherished part of the Summit County Library’s offerings.