The Barrie Public Library is launching a new book club dedicated to the true crime genre.
Sara Spencer, an associate at the Barrie Public Library, has been the driving force behind the True Crime Book Club.
"We've had a lot of people asking for a true crime book club," Spencer explained to Barrie 360. "And I think one of the things about the library is that we want to connect people through shared interests."
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Spencer, a self-professed true crime enthusiast, noted that fans are often met with judgment or misunderstanding.
"We've all kind of tried to talk to someone about true crime and the response has always been 'Oh my God, what's wrong with you?'" she said. "This is our way of removing the stigma and gathering like-minded individuals to talk in a safe space about the things they're interested in."
Although Spencer had envisioned the club before the pandemic, the timing only recently came together. She says the club is designed for seasoned true crime readers and newcomers alike.
"Even if you're an expert or if you're a novice with the genre, there's always more to learn," Spencer said. "You may think that you know everything about the case, but there's always a new tidbit of information. It's always changing."
To ensure broad appeal and inclusivity, the club features a rotating list of monthly themes and curated reading options. Rather than focusing on a single book, participants will choose from five to eight titles each month that reflect a central theme, allowing members to select books that suit their interests and comfort levels.
"We wanted to reflect on a wide range of true crime topics," Spencer said. "I've tried to include some of the lesser talked about genres … a book like [Starlight Tour: The Last, Lonely Night of Neil Stonechild], which is a story about systemic racism here in Canada against Indigenous people. I’ve also included a book by a local author."
Other planned themes include "A Woman Scorned," revolving around female killers, and "Awkward Family Reunion," featuring books written by the relatives of murderers and serial killers. Spencer said that tone and sensitivity are always top of mind.
"We prioritize respectful discussion," she explained. "It’s also one of the reasons why we chose the reading list instead of a single book … patrons are able to choose what they read based on their comfort level."
Participants can expect lively discussions, book recommendations, and even discoveries during the hour-long sessions, according to Spencer.
"There’s going to be a lot of readers’ advisory," said Spencer. "Maybe one group member will choose a book that's different from what the other group members are reading … maybe somebody else might want to read that book afterward ... maybe we'll even solve a murder."
The first session, scheduled for Wednesday, May 14, will explore the theme of cults—a topic Spencer finds particularly compelling.
"I just actually finished reading the book on Jim Jones," she said. "As much as you know about that case... there’s always something new. I had no idea that he sold live spider monkeys out of the back of his van to fund the cult in the early days."
To keep discussions respectful and inclusive, each session will be facilitated by library staff.
"We want to be as inclusive as we can; the safety of our participants is the top priority," said Spencer.
"If you feel like you need a break, you're welcome to leave the discussion or you're welcome to say, 'Hey, I’m getting a little uncomfortable by that. Can we maybe step away from that topic for a little bit?'"
Spencer says, for now, the club is limited to adult participants.
"We believe here at the Barrie Library, intellectual freedom and respect is of utmost importance," she emphasized.
Registration is required, and while the sessions are already at capacity, those interested are encouraged to join the waiting list.
"People may drop out and we may open up another session," Spencer said. "We’ll try to figure something out to get as many people in as possible."
All sessions will be held at the Holly branch, and the months are as follows:
- May 14, 2025, 7-8pm (Cults)
- June 11, 2025, 7-8pm (Canadian Killers)
- July 9, 2025, 7-8pm (Cold Cases)
- August 6, 2025, 7-8pm (Fact vs. Fiction)
- September 3, 2025, 7-8pm (Female Killers)
- October 1, 2025. 7-8pm (Unsolved Murders)
- November 12, 2025, 7-8pm (Family Murders)
- December 10, 2025, 7-8pm (Serial Killers)
For more information and to register or join the waitlist, visit www.barrielibrary.ca, call 705-728-1010, or speak with library staff.
"You’re welcome to come in and talk to any of the staff members about it," said Spencer. "There’s a couple of us who are kind of true crime experts."
