Happy Pride 🌈💖! In this episode of Book Lounge by Libby, we’re celebrating LGBTQ+ voices and the power of queer storytelling. In the first half of the show, Joe sits down for heartfelt, honest conversations with authors Andrew Joseph White, Juno Dawson, Susie Dumond, and Emily Austin. Each shares their unique experience as a queer writer—what inspires them, the challenges they face, and the joy of connecting with readers who see themselves in their stories. Then, our guest hosts Carmen, Cece, ...
Jun 26, 2025•3 hr 2 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Welcome to the very first episode of Book Lounge by Libby! We’re kicking things off with an ode to audiobooks—the voices, the stories, and the behind-the-scenes magic that makes them so special. First up, our host Joe chats with thriller author Carter Wilson, narrators Allyson Ryan and Patrick Zeller, and audiobook producers Catherin Bucaria and Almeda Beynon from Sourcebooks Audio to dig into what it really takes to bring a story from the page to your headphones and their work on Carter’s book ...
Jun 19, 2025•2 hr 27 min•Season 1Ep. 1
Say hello to Book Lounge by Libby, the new name for the podcast formerly known as Professional Book Nerds! In this intro, host Joe Skelley shares updates on the rebrand, what’s staying the same, and what new vibes you can expect in this next chapter. Plus, get a sneak peek at our first season - episode 1 is dropping next week, featuring a celebration of all things audiobooks. Pull up a chair—it’s going to be a great season. -- Looking for more bookish content? Check out the Libby Life Blog! We...
Jun 12, 2025•10 min
Joe is joined by his colleague and friend Nahomy for a fresh stack of June 2025 book picks—perfect for summer reading season. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or curled up in the AC, they’ve got something for every kind of reader. Nahomy shares queer coming-of-age tales, romantic comedies, twisty thrillers, and empowering debuts, while Joe's picks run the gamut from eerie horror to thoughtful sci-fi , with plenty of speculative fiction and heartwarming surprises along the way. Hit play and load...
May 29, 2025•1 hr 16 min
Spring has officially sprung and so have the May 2025 book releases! Joe is joined by colleague and fellow book lover Rachel to share their top picks for this May's freshest reads. From swoony romances and thrilling mysteries to heartfelt queer YA and buzzy debuts, they’ve got a little something for every reader. Plus, stick around for Joe’s rapid-fire lightning round of even more May titles you won’t want to miss! Whether you're loading up your Libby shelf or just need help picking your next fa...
Apr 24, 2025•1 hr 8 min
April is here, and with it comes a fresh lineup of must-read new books! Join Joe and Madison as they dive into the most exciting releases of the month. From long-awaited sequels to unexpected gems, our TBRs are taking us on quite the journey—just like the changing season! Whether you're in the mood for something light and breezy or deep and thought-provoking, we've got the perfect springtime read for you. Grab a cozy spot in the sunshine and let’s talk books! 🌿📖✨ You can follow Madison's Insta...
Mar 27, 2025•1 hr 27 min
In this episode, Joe is joined by Nahomy to recommend books for fans of The Hunger Games, whether you're eagerly awaiting Sunrise on the Reaping or need more dystopian reads after devouring it. From high-stakes competitions and oppressive regimes to survival in broken worlds, these books will keep you on the edge of your seat. Tune in for thrilling recommendations featuring deadly trials, futuristic rebellions, twisted social experiments, and resilient heroes fighting for freedom. Nahomy’s Title...
Mar 13, 2025•48 min
Spring is in the air, and so are a fresh batch of must-read books! In this episode, Joe is joined by Amy Clark from MomAdvice.com to dive into the most exciting new releases hitting shelves in March 2025. From highly anticipated fiction to captivating nonfiction, they’re sharing the books they can’t wait to read this month. Whether you’re looking for your next page-turner or adding to your never-ending TBR, this episode has something for every book lover. Tune in and get ready to update your rea...
Feb 27, 2025•1 hr 42 min
Waiting for Scythe & Sparrow to hit your shelf? We’ve got you covered! In this episode, Joe is joined by his colleague Meghan to share a list of must-read romances that will keep you hooked while you wait. These books capture the same vibes you love but each offers a unique journey of its own. Whether you’re craving heart-pounding twists, thought-provoking themes, or unforgettable characters, we’ve got the perfect recommendations to tide you over. Tune in and find your next great read! If yo...
Feb 13, 2025•55 min
The nominees are in! 🎉 Joe is joined by his coworker Gabi to unveil the 2025 Libby Book Awards nominees, including some exciting new categories. From the book club books to the hidden gems readers can’t stop raving about, we’re breaking down the top picks of the year. Who made the list? Tune in to find out! Check out the nominees on our Libby Life Blog: https://www.libbylife.com/2025-01-29-announcing-the-finalists-for-the-2025-libby-book-awards Readers can sample and borrow the titles mentioned...
Feb 04, 2025•2 hr
Love is in the air… and so are killer thrillers, swoon-worthy romances, out-of-this-world sci-fi, and so much more! Joe is joined by his friend and coworker Nahomy to chat about the most exciting books hitting shelves this February. Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling horror, a heart-racing fantasy, a cozy graphic novel, or a memoir that stays with you, we’ve got your next great read covered. Looking for even more bookish fun? Follow Nahomy on Instagram at @nahomyslibrary and subscribe to ...
Jan 30, 2025•1 hr 5 min
This week on the Professional Book Nerds podcast, Joe is joined by the fabulous Holly Stars! 🎭 Holly dives into her debut queer crime fiction novel, Murder in the Dressing Room (out January 14 from Berkley), sharing the inspiration behind this thrilling whodunit. We also chat about her incredible work on the West End and her advice on embracing your inner drag queen. 💄 Whether you’re a fan of crime fiction, the theater, or just love a little sparkle in your day, this episode is not to be misse...
Dec 23, 2024•55 min
Big changes are coming to the Professional Book Nerds podcast! In this special end-of-year episode, we’re sharing important updates about the future of the show that you won’t want to miss. Plus, Joe reflects on the final Professional Book Nerds Reading Challenge and how he wrapped up the year of reading. Tune in for all the details and to celebrate the end of this chapter with us! We hope you enjoy our last episode of the year this Monday, December 23 with drag queen Holly Stars! Hope you have ...
Dec 19, 2024•31 min
Step into a world of pink, glamour, and storytelling in this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast! Joe chats with bestselling author Renée Rosen about her dazzling new novel Let’s Call Her Barbie (out January 21 from Penguin). They dive into Renee’s writing process, the inspiration behind the book, and their shared love of Barbie—from childhood memories to cherished collections. If you’ve ever admired Barbie’s iconic style or dreamed of creating your own timeless stories, this episode ...
Dec 16, 2024•53 min
Start the new year with a fresh stack of must-reads! In this episode, Joe is joined by Renee to share their most anticipated book releases for January 2025. From thrilling debuts to long-awaited sequels, they’ve got something for every reader to kick off the year right. Grab your TBR list and settle in for a cozy chat packed with exciting recommendations. Ready to dive into 2025? Let’s turn the page together! Titles mentioned in today's episode: Author Interview Books Releasing this Month: Murde...
Dec 12, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Get ready to sleigh the holiday season with audiobooks! In this special episode, Joe is joined by Hugo from Penguin Random House to share cozy, captivating, and downright delightful audiobooks from Penguin Random House Audio that are perfect to Load Your Libby app. Whether you’re traveling over the river and through the woods, taking a moment of peace from the holiday hustle, or simply looking to escape into a great story, we’ve got you covered. Tune in for recommendations to keep your holiday s...
Dec 09, 2024•1 hr 18 min
As the year comes to a close, we’re reflecting on the incredible Juvenile, Middle Grade, and Young Adult books that shaped our reading journeys in 2024! 🎉📚 In this episode, Joe is joined by Andrea and Sarah to share their top picks—stories that made them laugh, cry, and think in new ways. From heartwarming middle grade adventures to gripping YA novels, join the conversation as they dive into all the books they couldn’t put down, offering their personal insights and reflections on the books tha...
Dec 05, 2024•55 min
🎄📚 It’s the most wonderful time of the year—for new books! Joe is joined by his friend and colleague Marissa to unwrap December 2024’s hottest new releases. From cozy holiday reads to thrilling page-turners, they’re sharing the books they’re most excited for as the year winds down. Whether you’re shopping for gifts or treating yourself, there’s something for everyone on this list. Tune in for a bookish sleigh ride! 🎁✨ Author Interviews for November & December: Skyshade by Alex Aster Shock...
Nov 21, 2024•1 hr
In this episode of the Professional Book Nerds podcast, Joe sits down with legendary author Chuck Palahniuk to discuss his latest novel, SHOCK INDUCTION (out now from Simon & Schuster) . They dive into Chuck’s signature minimalist writing style and explore how it unites his body of work, creating stories that pack an unforgettable punch. Plus, in a heartwarming twist, Chuck and Joe’s Boston terriers make a special appearance over Zoom, bringing a dose of canine charm to the conversation. Don...
Nov 18, 2024•58 min
It's fall, y'all 🍂 In this episode, Joe teams up with Claire and Kristin to share the ultimate list of cozy book recommendations. From charming cottage core tales to delightful cozy mysteries to graphic novels, these picks are perfect for your next warm and comforting reading escape. Your next cozy read awaits! Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles: The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna (new book next spring – A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping) The Pumpk...
Nov 14, 2024•1 hr
In this episode of The Professional Book Nerds, Joe sits down with bestselling author Alex Aster to dive into the magic of SKYSHADE (out November 12 from Amulet Books), the thrilling third installment in the Lightlark Saga. Alex shares her extraordinary journey, from querying her first book at just 12 years old to becoming a relentless force in the writing world. Discover the secrets behind Skyshade, the challenges Alex faced along the way, and how her unwavering determination has shaped her car...
Nov 11, 2024•1 hr 4 min
For those of you who love a thriller, a mystery or a bit of horror year-round, this one is for you. Today Joe is joined by Kara (@thebookkaravan) to talk about twisty, claustrophobic thrillers that will take you from fall into winter. They'll take you from Halloween through the dark nights of the new year! Titles mentioned in this episode: Kara’s Titles: The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides The Only One Left by Riley Sager Cover Story by Susan Rigetti The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks &am...
Nov 07, 2024•41 min
Happy Halloween 🎃 Today, Joe is joined by fellow Scorpio Jill to talk through November 2024's biggest books! The nerds share what they're most looking forward to this fall. Titles mentioned in this episode: Jill’s Titles: The Lake of Lost Girls by Katherine Greene Box Office Poison by Tim Robey Growing Up Urkel by Jaleel White Toto by A.J. Hackwith Believe by Jeremy Egner Others Like Me by Nicole Louie Thorns, Lust, and Glory by Estelle Paranque Sandwiches of History by Barry W. Enderwick Joe’s...
Oct 31, 2024•52 min
On this episode, we've got spooky stories for your nerves! Get ready for Halloween with these horror thrills! From classic slashers to supernatural creeps, Joe, Claire and Kristin have a recommendation for you! Titles mentioned in this episode: Claire’s Titles: We Used to Live Here by Marcus Kliewer The White Guy Dies First edited by Terry J. Benton-Walker Guillotine by Delilah S. Dawson Midnight on Beacon Street by Emily Ruth Verona The Bog Wife by Kay Chronister Sacrificial Animals by Kailee P...
Oct 24, 2024•1 hr 1 min
In this episode of Professional Book Nerds, we’re diving into the world of Jeff Kinney, the mastermind behind the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series! Join us as we chat about his latest release, Diary of a Wimpy Kid 19: Hot Mess (out October 22)! Get ready to laugh and learn as Jeff shares the inspiration behind his new book and the misadventures of Greg Heffley. We’ll also discuss the challenges of navigating the chaotic world of childhood, and how he turns those “hot mess” moments into relatable tale...
Oct 21, 2024•48 min
Join Joe as he chats with Kieran Hickey - his friend and founder of the Queer Liberation Library! Kieran shares his inspiration behind creating the queer digital library, how you can become a member of the library, and all the ways you can support QLL. They also talk about the importance of Queer History Month and recommend a few gay books. You can follow QLL on Instagram! You can learn more about QLL here: https://www.queerliberationlibrary.org/ find resources and access info here: https://www....
Oct 17, 2024•47 min
Joe is joined by two of his favorite people, author TJ Klune and audiobook narrator Daniel Henning to talk about their work together on Somewhere Beyond the Sea (out now from Tor and Macmillan audio)! TJ shares how he channeled love, joy and rage into this book, why it's important to create safe spaces, and what you can expect from his writing in the future. Daniel shares his amazing process, work on creating new characters, channeling our existing favorites, and what it felt like to be on the N...
Oct 14, 2024•1 hr 9 min
On this special episode, we’re featuring a conversation from our friends at Life in Seven Songs, the new podcast from The San Francisco Standard that dives deep into the minds of some of today’s greatest visionaries. Named a top new show by both Apple Podcasts and The Guardian, Life in Seven Songs asks one simple question: What songs tell your life story? In each episode, extraordinary people share the music and moments that have shaped their lives. Each episode, host Sophie Bearman sits down wi...
Oct 12, 2024•38 min
Emma chats with Lynn Painter about returning to the story of Wes and Liz for Nothing Like the Movies! They also discuss how many versions of this story Lynn wrote, why Lynn doesn't like sequels, go-to coffee orders, the joy of meeting readers, reality tv obsessions, reading recommendations, and what the spirit of a "rom-com" means. Books mentioned in this episode: Nothing Like the Movies by Lynn Painter Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter Betting on You by Lynn Painter The Do-Over by Lynn Pai...
Oct 10, 2024•55 min
Join Joe for an enchanting conversation with Claribel A. Ortega as she delves into her latest book, Witchlings 3: House of Elephants (out 10/1 from Scholastic). Discover her writing process and the inspiration behind her captivating characters. Claribel shares insights into life on tour, the joys of connecting with readers, and her deep love for libraries as vital spaces for creativity and community. Whether you're a fan of her work or new to her magic, this episode is packed with inspiration an...
Oct 07, 2024•55 min
