Rather than using Facebook or Twitter for social networking, one local library is doing things the old fashioned way — discussing books.

This summer, librarians Julie Rinaldi and Regina Maduell are planning events at the Folsom Public Library that will get adults together to talk about books they have read. The main summer reading program, Rinaldi said, is a simple concept with low commitment — read a book of your choice and fill out a slip of paper to indicate you've read the book. If you're of a mind, you can also attend a meeting, talk about your book with others, and enjoy food, all at no cost.

“It’s a way to get adults excited about reading,” Rinaldi said. “To get them to interact with each other … It’s a reading incentive.”

Rinaldi was excited that the summer program will include the recently acquired Playaways, iPod-like devices that contain an audio book.

At the end of the program on July 31, participants will be included in a raffle for each recorded book or audio book they’ve completed. Prizes have been donated from local businesses such as Bidwell Street Bistro, the Folsom City Zoo, Peet’s Coffee, Snook’s Candy and more.

“It’s not just about reading,” Rinaldi said. “It’s to get adults to mingle, come into the library … It’s both components, social and reading, all free.”

The adult summer program is in its second year, with its inaugural year seeing more than 400 participants. In the past three weeks, nearly 200 people have registered.

This year’s theme is “Mastering the Art of Reading,” a program designed to stimulate creativity and art in Folsom residents, Rinaldi said.

Upcoming events include a continuing “Magic Bus” coloring contest, a coffee reception and book swap, best selling author Franz Wisner speaking and signing books, and a classical guitar and flute concert by Daniel Roest and Francesca Anderson.

“It’s the social aspect, not just the books on the shelves,” Rinaldi reiterated.

Rinaldi and Maduell also pointed out Senior First Fridays, events aimed towards seniors. The first Friday of each month, except this July, has a speaker give a presentation to seniors. The presentation is often relevant to the age group, such as a speaker from the California Senior Legal Hotline. Others are historical, such as Chuck Yaeger’s wingman, and some are simply entertaining, such as animals visiting from the Folsom Zoo.

The ongoing regular book club, which meets on the first Wednesday and third Thursday of each month, discusses a specific book, rather than using the summer program’s bring-your-own-book philosophy. Refreshments are served and interacting is encouraged, much like the summer program.

“There’s been a fear of the Internet (and) that libraries are going to be obsolete,” said Rinaldi. “Libraries have had to reinvent themselves over the last 10 years. We are trying to be a community hub. Come, interact (and) exchange ideas.”

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Upcoming Programs

Coffee reception and book swap

5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursday, July 9

Franz Wisner, author of “Honeymoon with My Brother and How the World Makes Love,” discusses book and signs autographs.

1 p.m., Saturday, July 18

Classical guitar and flute concert by Daniel Roest and Francesca Anderson. Refreshments follow

1 p.m., Saturday, July 25