Big Turnout for Library Beach Bag Book Club

The North Bellmore, Merrick, North Merrick and Bellmore libraries joined together to host a successful Beach Bag Book Club gathering on Tuesday.

"I've done this for three years," said young adult author, Jen Calonita, referring to hosting the Beach Bag Book Club. "And I've been lucky enough that other teen authors come for the girls."

The two young adult novelists who joined Jen at the Merrick Library Wing were Kieran Scott, author of "She's So Dead to Us" (Simon & Schuster), and Sara Shepard, author of the "Pretty Little Liars" series (HarperTeen.)

North Bellmore's Kailee said she came to the Beach Bag Book Club because she was reading and enjoying "Pretty Little Liars," which is also a TV show on ABC Family. Alicia from Merrick said, "There's always something going on and the story keeps you on the edge."

"I wrote the first book five years ago and found out in January that it was going to be made into a show," Shepard said." I was really excited that they used a lot from the book." She went on to tell her captivated audience that she had a speaking role with three lines for the show that was to air that evening.

Kieran Scott, who also writes under a couple of pseudonyms, came from New Jersey for the event.

"It's amazing to meet the fans and hear their enthusiasm," said Scott. "It validates what you do."

One of those fans was present and eagerly told the author that she loves the Private series, written under the name of Kate Brian.

"I read it while I was at camp," she said.

"Secrets of My Hollywood Life" author and host for the series, Jen Calonita, added, "I don't think we ever had this many girls for an event before."

With more than 60 in attendance, it was standing room only of attentive young teens. When it came time for the questions, the authors were forthcoming with their answers.

North Bellmore's Young Adult Librarian, Jessica Tymecki, greeted the teens at the door and collected money for the many books sold while Merrick's teen services librarian, Larissa Simonovski, helped keep everyone organized.

Merrick Library Director, Ellen Firer, said, "I think we have such a great turnout. The authors are just great role models for the girls. It's such an impressive program."

Tymecki added that, "it is very exciting to offer our teen patrons such a wonderful opportunity to meet famous authors, and engage in conversation with them about their work."

The series continues with authors Sarah Mlynowski and Elizabeth Eulberg, who will be Beach Bag Book Club guests on Aug. 24 at 4:15 p.m. at the Merrick Library Wing.