I had the pleasure of visiting this community library in Penngrove, CA called The Sitting Room today. It is in a private individual's home who has opened her lovely house to the public as a library of books centering women writers. The whole place was extremely charming and well organized, with various rooms representing different collections such as poetry, the performing arts, an entire section dedicated to books by and about Virginia Woolf, a beautiful altar setup to Maya Angelou and her books, complete with a powerful quote of hers on the wall, several bookcases of publications by lesbian writers which were built "into a closet," funnily enough, and a whole room dedicated to the obituaries of noteworthy women. This place is a vast archive of relevant materials all focused on women authors and thinkers. The grounds, including the back and front yards, are beautified by numerous standing redwoods towering over the house. It created a very welcoming sanctuary that made you really want to sit there and browse and read for hours. All of this is dedicated to women writers. J.J. Wilson and her staff of enthusiastic volunteers are to be highly credited and praised for giving this unique and beautiful gift to our community. Such a rich and exciting dwelling place, and community center for us all to enjoy! I highly recommend you visit! Go check it out, and set aside a few hours for browsing and sampling, like a visit to a bakery for those of us who love to read. read more

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This is a hidden gem in Rohnert Park! This is a private free library, where you can borrow books for free, and even host events. There is a little kitchen too so you can serve some snacks to your group. I found this place because I was invited to an event for the women who work at Sonoma State. We had a lovely time, sipping wine and eating snacks, relaxing in the garden. I found a book on my way out, and one of the volunteers was happy to chat with me about it and let me take it right away. Can you believe it?? This is truly a spot for book lovers. They just let you take books -- no membership card, no due dates, just readers creating a space for each other. It is a really quaint and relaxing place. I can't believe more people don't know about it! read more