Mystery Readers Journal

Mystery Readers International is the largest mystery fan/reader organization in the world, is open to all readers, fans, critics, editors, publishers, and writers. Started by Janet A. Rudolph in Berkeley, California, it now has members in all 50 of the United States and 18 foreign countries. Members vote each year to nominate and select the winners of the Macavity Award—the 2024 winners have been announced! Join MRI today!

Murder Takes a Holiday

Mystery Readers Journal is a quarterly thematic mystery Journal. Each issue contains articles, reviews, and author essays on a specific theme, as well as special columns and other mystery related material. Journals run an average of 80 pages. Subscribe.

Current Issue: Murder Takes a Holiday (Summer 2024) is available in hardcopy or as a downloadable PDF.

Recent Issues: Southern California Mysteries (Spring 2024); Animals in Mysteries II (Winter 2023); Animals in Mysteries I (Fall 2023).

Coming Up: Partners in Crime; London Mysteries; Retail Murders; Northern California; Thrillers. Submit an article!

Comments Box SVG iconsUsed for the like, share, comment, and reaction icons

[A "Walking Library" in London, circa 1930s]

The concept of a "Walking Library" in London during the 1930s refers to individuals who would carry books with them and offer them to the public in various locations. These walking libraries were essentially mobile libraries, enabling access to books for people who might not have had easy access to traditional libraries.

The idea was to promote literacy and the love of reading among the populace. Individuals acting as walking libraries would roam the streets, parks, and public spaces, lending books and sometimes even reading to those interested. This initiative was particularly valuable during a time when not everyone had the means or opportunity to visit a stationary library.

The 1930s was a period marked by economic challenges, and such innovative ideas played a crucial role in providing cultural and educational resources to the masses. The walking libraries also fostered a sense of community and shared learning experiences.
... See MoreSee Less

Load more