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Becoming a Reader as an Adult

Not everyone grows up a reader—and that’s okay. 

In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, Joe talks with his friend Sam about what it’s like when reading finally works for you. They dig into unlearning what reading is “supposed” to look like, finding joy without pressure, and how discovering books later in life can quietly change how you see yourself. 

Along the way, Sam shares how becoming a reader also sparked the beginning of her journey as a writer. This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt outside of reading culture—and is finding their way in. 

Who’s in this episode:  

Time stamps: 

00:00:00 Title 

00:00:23 Intro 

00:01:10 Becoming a Reader 

00:46:46 Becoming an Author 

01:06:03 Outro 

 

Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned in today’s episode in Libby. Library friends can add these titles to their digital collections for free in OverDrive Marketplace and Kanopy. Check out our Cumulative List for the whole season! 

Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog

We hope you enjoy this episode of Book Lounge by Libby. Be sure to rate, review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen! You can watch the video version of our show on the Libby App YouTube channel. Keep up with us on social media by following the Libby App on Instagram!  

Want to reach out? Send an email to bookloungebylibby@overdrive.com. Want some cool bookish swag? Check out our merch store at: http://plotthreadsshop.com/booklounge

Published Feb 05, 2026

Joe Skelley

Joe Skelley has always been a lover of reading and the library. His love of libraries brought him to Libby where he works on the marketing & events team and hosts the Book Lounge by Libby podcast. Joe loves to read horror, thrillers, magical realism, and the broad spectrum of YA! When he’s not working, Joe’s listening to audiobooks, working on a DIY project, and (most importantly) hanging out with his Boston Terrier, Roscoe.