The Acorn Public Library recently launched a new nonfiction reading club for Oak Forest residents led by Reference Librarian and Adult Programming Coordinator Mike Monahan. The club, called the Barcodes, meets on the first Thursday of every month at Oliver's Bar and Grill.

“We've got about 10 people signed up right now, there's really no limit though,” Monahan said. “We get together, get drinks and appetizers and then just talk about the book.”

The group is currently on its third book, “County: Life, Death, and Politics at Chicago's Public Hospital,” by David Ansell, M.D. The book's description says it covers 30 years of the hospital's history, from Ansell's internship at the hospital to its closure.

Monahan chooses the books for the group, the group then has a month to read it before the next meeting. He added that the group has been a positive experience for him and its members.

“It's been good,” Monahan said. “We've had about about 10 people both times before. It's a pretty good group and it's a pretty good crowd. “

The idea for the club started as a way to raise interest in the library.

“I was just trying to get more people involved in the library, get people involved and meet in a more social setting, [instead of the library,]” he said.

For more information about Barcodes, contact the Acorn Public Library reference desk at 708-687-3700.