Booked: A Conversation with Rhonda French

Why do you believe a thriving library is important to a community?

A thriving library is the beating heart of our town where everyone is welcome. It is an oasis for anyone who wants to be enriched by the experiences and knowledge it provides. Libraries bring people together, inspire lifelong learning, and create a place where curiosity and connection can flourish.

Is there a book that has stayed with you throughout your life? What made it so memorable?

Rather than one particular book, I've always been drawn to stories that paint vivid pictures; books that capture the imagination and celebrate the romance of travel, history, and true love. There are two books that have stayed with me over the years: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen and The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer. Pride and Prejudice is timeless, with unforgettable characters and insights into human nature that still resonate today. The Mists of Avalon captivated my imagination by reimagining Arthurian legend through a fresh perspective, creating a rich world that lingered with me long after I finished reading. Those are the stories that stay with me long after I've finished the last page.

What kinds of books do you find yourself drawn to, and why?

I enjoy historical fiction, biographies, and classic literature. So many books have provided inspiration, solace, and a welcome escape. 

What are you reading right now?

The Modern Auditorium by Rosanne Dingli.

I'm always reading something, usually a mix of historical fiction and nonfiction. I enjoy alternating between stories that transport me to another time and books that help me better understand people and history.

How do you select the next book you want to read?

I usually choose my next book based on recommendations from my daughters, friends, reviews, or another book by an author I've enjoyed. Sometimes it's simply a title that sparks my curiosity or promises to take me somewhere I've never been.

What is your earliest memory of visiting a library?

One of my earliest memories is walking to the old rock Church of Christ building on Southwest A, where the library was newly located when I was young (before it was in the Massey building). I remember the excitement of wandering the shelves, discovering new books, and leaving with stories that would take me on adventures far beyond my rural home in Bentonville.

Why do you feel it's important to support the Bentonville Library Foundation?

Supporting the Bentonville Library Foundation means investing in our community's future. The Foundation helps ensure that the library can continue to provide meaningful programs, educational opportunities, and access to resources for people of every age and background. A strong library enriches lives, strengthens our community, and remains a place where everyone belongs.