News from Silent Book Club Co-founder Laura Gluhanich

An update from Laura...

What started as random Monday nights in San Francisco, sipping wine and avoiding #HustleCulture has grown into a global phenomenon that neither I nor Guinevere ever imagined. We’ve seen reading communities fall out of favor only to come roaring back as we collectively look for spaces to connect, reflect, and unplug.

San Francisco, where it all started - Palace Hotel (2018), Green Apple Books (2016)

It has been exciting to watch it all unfold and to co-lead a movement that has expanded to dozens of countries, transcending cultures, seeing joy and connection from members, organizers, and partners. Just when I think we’ve reached a pinnacle, something else comes up, a viral beach gathering of hundreds, the launch of reading retreats, reading trains across a city, an incredible ten year celebration. Throughout it all, Guinevere and I have acted in partnership as co-founders, shepherding an organization rooted in shared values and mission.

Field research for SBC Reading Retreats - Oahu (2024) and Kauai (2022)

Over the years, Guinevere and I have regularly met in person to envision the future of Silent Book Club, to set priorities and goals, and discuss how we divide and conquer the work to be done. When we last met, it was clear that while Guinevere’s vision continues to expand with the organization, my energy for the work had shifted. Rather than hold back the growth that she was eager to meet, our goals shifted to enable me to step back from Silent Book Club as a day-to-day operator.

Toasting our front page WSJ article at Zuni in San Francisco (2023), strategizing in Denver (2019)

I will always be co-founder of this incredible organization, will be cheering on the team every step of the way, and participating as a volunteer in various ways — you may still see an occasional bookish playlist on the blog, see me moderating a Facebook post, or hosting a local meetup.

— Laura Gluhanich, Co-founder, Silent Book Club

10th Anniversary celebration in San Francisco (2025)