This episode started with no plan… and turned into a deep dive on analog hobbies, uncovering your reader personality, red & green reading flags, what’s coming up at the library — and a very passionate stance on the one question you should absolutely never ask a stranger.

It’s chaotic good. Maybe you'll enjoy it!

Laura and Rachel share their hottest literary takes - do you agree with them? No? Let them know!

We are kicking off the new year by discussing our reading resolutions, diving into publishing trends, like AI and cozy reads, and talk about which upcoming books we can't wait to read. Plus, Laura is blind ranking trends of 2025 and upcoming page-to-screen film adaptations. Get ready for insightful discussions and a few rants along the way.

00:00 Welcome to the Bookmark Podcast

01:09 New Year Resolutions and Fun Stuff

02:42 Library Programs and Events

07:47 Reading Resolutions for 2026

23:31 Trend Predictions for 2026

34:21 Anticipated Book Releases of 2026

47:35 Blind Rankings: Book Trends of 2025

51:05 Blind Rankings: Book-to-Screen Adaptations

55:29 Blind Rankings: Book Covers of 2025

01:02:44 Concluding Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

It’s our annual bookish gift guide episode! Rachel and Laura are sharing their top picks for books and other literary gifts that are perfect for the readers on your list. Or maybe a little inspiration for your own wish list.

In this episode, Rachel and Laura interpret the concept of books about 'gratitude' VERY differently!

It's the podcast that even tech issues wanted to BAN! Rachel and Laura dive into the controversial world of book banning and censorship. Get ready for discussions on the importance of reading freedom, surprising banned book titles, and hilarious laws against books you will not believe!

They also share how you can support your local library and stand up for your right to read. Plus, find out which banned book you are with a fun quiz!

institute.org/book_censorship_database_magnusson

https://infreadomtoread.org/

https://pen.org/book-bans/

https://www.wabash.lib.in.us/jointhefriends

Laura and Rachel plan their ideal meal using upcoming cookbook releases you should look out for! Want to see the cookbooks they recommend and sign up to get next month's recommendations in your inbox?

Click here!

This month, Laura and Rachel welcome Sarah Smith back to the pod and discuss all the books they didn't finish! Join the conversation on social media and let them know which books you had no trouble putting down.

⁠Click here to check out the books we discussed this month!

Join Rachel and Laura as they celebrate July, Laura's birthday month, and discuss the excitement of the summer reading program at the Wabash Carnegie Public Library.

Check out everything we have in store for this year's summer reading program, Color Our World.

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