The Cherrydale Library Book Discussion Group is pleased to have world traveler Joan Marik as the new volunteer discussion facilitator. Joan has led book groups throughout her adult life and has facilitated discussions in her work as a consultant with United Way and the Interagency Council for the Homeless.

"We had been looking for the right person to follow Gabe Ofiesh, a volunteer who founded our discussion group. Gabe retired after several years of serving as facilitator," says Suzanne Embree, another volunteer who continues working as the group’s liaison to Central Library and manager of the mailing list. "We could all see when Joan joined the group that she had a natural talent for facilitating. She is an inviting person, and she knows how to open the conversation in a way that leads to a meaningful exchange for everyone. She’s especially great at making participants feel welcome."

Joan brings to these discussions a background of extensive travel. She has been to Tanzania, Egypt, China, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Mexico, and Vietnam. She encourages others to add references from their own experiences. Joan's other interests include ballet, the theater, and hiking.