Dog-Eared Books hosted a book club fair on Thursday with book club tables and 15% off of their books.

There were at least 10 book clubs included in the fair and every single one had interest papers, books they were reading and free bookmarks.

There were many different book clubs at the fair, from birding to mysteries to self-help books and everything in between. 

Dog-Eared Books is a relatively new bookstore on Main Street in Ames. They have study spaces, a new puppy and free Wi-Fi.

“We don’t have any purchase requirement to participate,” said Ellyn Grimm, co-owner of Dog-Eared Books. “We just want you to come and hang out. It’s a good way to get out in the Ames community, to get off campus, and get more integrated into Ames.” 

Brenda Tyrrell runs the “Better Birding” book club at Dog-Eared Books. This club is all about birding, including assumptions people make, how to go birding, how to identify birds and they are even going on a birding trip this year.

“That’s really exciting to hear about the fun birding adventures that other people have had,” Tyrrell said when asked about her favorite part of her book club.

Anne Moore and Jillian Cihocki are both regulars at this book store, and were browsing the different book clubs all afternoon.

“I just love the vibe of it, it just looks so good and the books are good,” said Moore. “It’s so cozy in here and everyone here is so nice that works here. Even if you don’t like books or feel like you’re into reading, they’ll always welcome you in here, and you can always study, get a snack and just hang out.”

“It’s just like a cozy place to be, I think,” Cihocki added. 

All of the book clubs are available to view on their website and are open to everyone.