BOOK CLUB: The Personal Librarian

Beth Scholle selected this book by authors Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray, which tells the story of Belle da Costa Greene, J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian.

Join us at the Library for our September Book Club!

Date: Wednesday, September 25
Time: 5:30pm

In her twenties, Belle da Costa Greene is hired by J. P. Morgan to curate a collection of rare manuscripts, books, and artwork for his newly built Pierpont Morgan Library. Belle becomes a fixture in New York City society and one of the most powerful people in the art and book world, known for her impeccable taste and shrewd negotiating for critical works as she helps create a world-class collection.

But Belle has a secret, one she must protect at all costs. She was born not Belle da Costa Greene but Belle Marion Greener. She is the daughter of Richard Greener, the first Black graduate of Harvard and a well-known advocate for equality. Belle’s complexion isn’t dark because of her alleged Portuguese heritage that lets her pass as white—her complexion is dark because she is African American.

How to become a Fishers Island Library Book Club member?
Contact Abby McCall or Ann Banks, or just come to a meeting, and you will be added to the contact list. Easy!

2024 Book Club Selections