POLSON – We’ve all had to endure our share of long waits at the doctor’s office or auto garage. Though typically tedious ordeals that can test one’s patience, recent efforts of the North Lake County Public Library and the Greater Polson Community Foundation are making idle time at such locations more bearable — and even enjoyable — at several places around town, through the proliferation of “Book Nooks.”

Tucked cozily into the corners of local businesses and medical facilities, Book Nooks are simply reading stations with well-stocked shelves of gently used books available to the public free of charge. According to the library, materials “can be enjoyed for the moment or taken home.” An inviting, cushioned rocking chair is another distinguishing feature of the reading zones.

Library director and project initiator Marilyn Trosper says that the Book Nook campaign   targets “places where people do a lot of waiting.” The nooks have already taken root in four Polson locations: Beacon Tire, Wash N Go, the Tribal Health Clinic and St. Joseph Hospital.

So far, they seem to have enjoyed a warm reception among members of the public. Diana Buchmann, manager at Beacon Tire, reports that the Book Nook in the corner of her store has a growing fan club.

“People can’t really believe that they can take these new books and don’t even have to return them,” says Buchmann. Despite the policy, Buchmann noted that many users say they intend to return their reading material anyway.

The Book Nook project was funded by a grant from the Greater Polson Community Foundation and by the North Lake County Public Library. Trosper credits much of the program’s success to the energy and dedication of Penny Jarecki of the GPCF and librarian Jery Walker, who works hard to keep the shelves stocked.

Plans are developing to set up four more Book Nooks over the coming year. People wishing to suggest locations for the new sites are encouraged to contact the library by phone or email.