Wellesley’s got three libraries plus independent book store Wellesley Books, and all are spaces frequented and much-loved by the town’s avid readers.

But there’s one more spot that is perhaps the best of them all if you’re interested, strictly from an anthropological perspective of course, in trying to discern the kind of books Wellesley people really read. That spot is the open shelves at the RDF. There, in full view and for the taking (if you’re a Wellesley resident), are books that have likely come directly out of actual Wellesley homes. Some of it is what you’d expect. But not all…

Golf and wine books, Wellesley — The hole in one was perfection, not the result of some sloppy stroke of luck by a beginner or, worse, the flailing of a guest who had wandered onto the course with rented clubs and a rudimentary grasp of course etiquette. The round of drinks he’d owe everybody back at the club house would cost him, but it would be worth it to see his name engraved on the plaque reserved for others of his caliber — those who had also achieved the sport’s Holy Grail.

Wellesley books, yachts — She told him that it was either the yacht or her. Sometimes, when he was on his way out to Nantucket on yet another perfect summer day, he really missed his wife.

Danielle Steele books — Slowly and deliberately, she unfolded her long legs from the cherry-red convertible Mercedes. With a toss of her blonde mane, the exquisite creature ambled over to the book shelf. One by one, she propped up her collection of Danielle Steel novels. As she walked away, she allowed herself one glance backward at the books that had taught her everything she would ever need to know. They were used now, and indeed, she had received them used. But one thing was certain. Because of the knowledge she had gained from Ms. Steel, she herself had never, ever, been used.

Dump, books section — Hmm…I wonder if I should finally get this chaos ordered according to the Dewey decimal system?

Books Wellesley people read

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