Book 'n Bite, a noon-hour book review program, is now sadly a program of the past. It all started 25 years ago as a series facilitated by the newly formed Friends of Appleton Library in the old library building on South Oneida Street. Over the years staff of the Appleton Public Library took over as overseers of these programs.

Book 'n Bite was held on Tuesdays from 12:10-12:50 in February, April and November. Each month featured a theme. The timing was great for patrons wanting to take a lunch break, enjoy some refreshments, network with friends or business associates, take in a book review or meet a Wisconsin author. Themes ranged from "The Book That Most Influenced Me", "Journey to Ireland" to "Fall Potpourri". During the past few years "Wisconsin Authors" would be featured in April as part of the National Library Week celebrations. Authors included: Larry Watson, Kathy Buchen Beson, Elmer Otte, Margaret Houk, Linda DeVries, Sara Rath, Robert Lane, Jerry Apps, Carolyn Kellogg, John Driscoll, Michael Stevens, Suzanne Breckenridge, Marjorie Snyder, JoEllen Wollangk, Richard Carter, Patrick Lisi, Joseph Trombello, Paula Sergei, Tony Rajer and Christine Style. One of the most memorable Book 'n Bite programs included: "Books Prepared by Cooks" (February 1994) which included a food editor and chef not only reviewing their favorite cookbooks but also preparing tasty foods for the audience to sample.

Book 'n Bite reviewers were special people who come from all walks of life primarily in the Fox Cities. On April 24, 2001 at 7:00pm, staff at Appleton Public Library will host "25 years of Book 'n Bite" as part of our yearly Volunteer Recognition event. Mark your calendars and prepare to reminisce!