Nine decades, countless books and enduring friendships: Concord's Sidney Lanier Book Club turns 90

Founded by eight women in 1936, the club has weathered changing times while preserving its traditions of lifelong learning, fellowship and community service.

The Sidney Lanier Book Club is celebrating its 90th anniversary next month. Photo courtesy of the Sidney Lanier Book Club.

Ninety years is a long time for any organization to endure.

Members come and go. Communities change. Traditions fade. But since eight Concord women gathered in a local home in November 1936 with a shared desire to learn, the Sidney Lanier Book Club has kept going.

Next month, its members will celebrate a remarkable milestone: the club’s 90th anniversary. The celebration, on Nov. 9, will include a special proclamation from Concord Mayor Steve Morris.