Book discussion groups are popping up all over. For adults, there are monthly clubs at the Golden Gate Branch Library, 5606 San Pablo Ave. (6:30 p.m. on the fourth Mondays of each month) and a special Lesbian/Gay/Bi/Transgender Book Discussion group (6:30 p.m. on the second Mondays of each month) at the Piedmont Avenue Branch, 160 41st St. Piedmont's selection for March is "Memory Mambo" by Achy Obejas.

Beginning at 6:30 p.m. on March 14, a new group is being formed at the Dimond Branch Library, 3565 Fruitvale Ave. The first selection will be Ursula Hegi's "Sacred Time." These groups are open to anyone who enjoys reading and sharing ideas about books.

In addition, the Golden Gate Branch is sponsoring a book club for youths age 14 to 17 that meets from 4-5 p.m. on the third Wednesday of every month, while Dimond Branch is hosting a discussion group for younger children, 9-12 years old, from 4-5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Call these libraries for current selections.

For those who like to sample new titles before reading them, we offer an Online Book Club through our Web site, www.oaklandlibrary.org, under "Electronic Resources." By signing up for this free service, you can start receiving the first few chapters of the latest books in your daily e-mail.

Club categories allow you to select from nonfiction, fiction, prepublication, horror, mystery, business, teens, romance, science fiction, and audio book options.

You can also share opinions about these titles through online discussion forums. Upcoming selections are listed on our Web site and include titles by such popular authors as Ken Follett, Sue Grafton, Carl Hiassen and others. Whether you're seeking inspiration, entertainment or business strategies, there's something for everyone.

The Oakland Public Library also plays host to two book parties for veteran cartoonist Morrie Turner, creator of "Wee Pals," to introduce his latest children's book, "Super Sistahs." Adults and children alike will enjoy meeting this famous artist at 2 p.m. March 12 at the Main Library, 125 14th St., and at 5 p.m. March 21 at the Elmhurst Branch Library, 1427 88th Ave.

Local author William Wong will appear at 7 p.m. March 7 at the Dimond Branch Library to show slides and discuss his new book, "Oakland's Chinatown." Copies of his book will be available for purchase.

Finally, book-lovers will want to check out our new "Hot Picks" section in the lobby of the Main Library. Stocked with multiple copies of the latest books and DVD's, these materials circulate for seven days and cannot be renewed, ensuring a fast turnaround for insatiable readers. Check it out--you can't miss the bright red and yellow signs!