As 2025 begins, many book lovers are setting reading resolutions to explore new genres, finish long-overdue classics or simply read more consistently. But staying inspired can be a challenge.
Fortunately, San Diego is filled with events and places that ignite a passion for reading. From joining book clubs to attending an author Q&A, here are five ideas to help you stay motivated and make this year your most fulfilling reading journey yet.
You can make your 2025 reading goals even more exciting by scrolling down to grab our Reading Resolutions Bingo card.
Join a local book club
Book clubs are a great way to stay motivated and connect with fellow readers. These gatherings offer engaging discussions and new book recommendations to keep your reading resolutions on track. Here are some local bookstores and resources to consider:
- Meet Cute: Everything Romance Book Club
- Book clubs hosted by Mysterious Galaxy
- Camino Books events
- The Catapult Book Club
- La Playa Books: "Shhh, We're Reading" Book Club
Honorable mention: If you’re not close to a bookstore, try visiting the San Diego Library to check out when your local branch is hosting book club meetings. Don’t forget to explore their events calendar for more opportunities.
Attend a book release party
Whether it’s celebrating a debut author or the next installment of a beloved series, book release parties are a great way to reignite your love for reading. These events bring together a community of like-minded book lovers, offering shared excitement for new stories and a chance to connect over a mutual passion for literature.
Here are two upcoming events to mark on your calendar:
Mysterious Galaxy 'Onyx Storm' release party
Celebrate the release of "Onyx Storm" by Rebecca Yarros at Mysterious Galaxy’s midnight release party. This event features exclusive giveaways, themed activities and a chance to connect with fellow fans of the series. There’s even a costume contest, so dress in your best riding leathers for this magical evening dedicated to the highly anticipated next installment.
Details: 9:30 p.m. on Jan. 20. Mysterious Galaxy Bookstore, 3555 Rosecrans St Suite 107, Point Loma.
Note: This is a ticketed event. Attendees must preorder “Onyx Storm” to secure a ticket.
Celebrate the re-release of 'Spark of the Everflame' and 'Glow of the Everflame'
Join author Penn Cole for an enchanting evening at the Neil Morgan Auditorium in the San Diego Central Library. The event celebrates the re-release of “Spark of the Everflame” and “Glow of the Everflame.” Cole will be in conversation with Sara Hashem, author of “The Jasad Heir,” followed by a book signing.
Tickets include a copy of either “Spark of the Everflame” or “Glow of the Everflame” and allow for the signing of one additional book by Cole, as well as “The Jasad Heir” by Hashem. Books can be purchased in advance or brought from home.
Details: 7-10 p.m. on Feb. 19. Meet Cute Romance Bookshop, 8235 La Mesa Blvd., La Mesa.
Get book matched by your librarian
Looking for personalized book recommendations? The San Diego Public Library’s MatchBook service helps readers discover their next great read. Fill out a simple online form about your preferences, and librarians will provide a tailored list of suggestions within seven to 10 business days. Whether you’re exploring new genres or diving deeper into old favorites, MatchBook offers expertly curated recommendations designed just for you.
Buy a book at your local library
Stock up on great reads at the Friends of the San Diego Public Library monthly book sale. Held at the Central Library, this event offers a wide selection of books at unbeatable prices, with proceeds supporting library programs and services. From fiction to nonfiction to children's books, there's something for everyone.
Details: the third Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Attend an author event at Warwick’s bookstore
Warwick’s hosts a variety of engaging events throughout the year. Its "Weekends with Locals" series features books of all genres by San Diego-area authors on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The bookstore also organizes discussions and signings with celebrated writers. Upcoming highlights include:
- Lotte Jeffs discusses and signs her debut novel, "This Love," in conversation with Jason Blitman. (Jan. 21)
- Poets Kim Dower and Blas Falconer discuss and sign their latest works, "What She Wants: Poems on Obsession, Desire, Despair, Euphoria" and "Rara Avis," respectively. (Jan. 30)
- Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist and author Michael Hiltzik discusses and signs his new book, "Golden State: The Making of California." (Feb. 18)
Make your 2025 reading resolutions even more fun. Download and print our Reading Resolutions Bingo card. This interactive card is filled with ideas to inspire your reading goals all year long. Share it with friends, challenge yourself to complete a row — or the entire card — and don't forget to share your progress when you hit bingo!
