Social Groups and Clubs

Participation in Groups requires current membership in Mankato Area Lifelong Learners. For more information, contact the office at lifelonglearners@mnsu.edu or 507-389-2011.


Book Clubs

The BookMarks Book Club

The group will be limited to about 15 members and is currently accepting new members. Books are chosen monthly and will be announced in the weekly updates. If you’d like to participate, please contact the office.

When: Fourth Wednesday of each month from 1pm - 3pm

Location: Conference Room, Blue Earth County Library, 100 E. Main St., Mankato

Host: James Booker

History and Non-Fiction Book Club

When: Second Thursday of each month at 2pm

Location: North Mankato Police Annex, 1001 Belgrade Ave., North Mankato

If you’d like to participate, please contact the office. Please see the newsletter for exact dates and book titles.

Host: Steve Gilbert

To participate in a History and NON-FICTION Book Club, you must (1) be a member of Mankato Area Lifelong Learners, (2) join the club with a commitment to be a regular attendee and (3) purchase and read the books.


Bridge Groups

Do you enjoy using strategy, memory, and teamwork? Our Social Bridge group currently has two ladies’ groups. There is room for additional tables, and we are always looking for substitute players as well.

It’s a great opportunity to sharpen your skills, connect with fellow players and just enjoy an afternoon of fun and camaraderie. If you’d like to participate, please contact the office.

When: Third Monday of each month at 1pm

Location: WOW! Zone, 2030 Adams St., Mankato

Host: Mary Bliesmer


Coffee and Current Events

Grab your coffee and join us on Zoom for relaxed, thoughtful conversations about current events and topics making headlines. Whether you follow the news closely or simply enjoy discussing issues with others, all are welcome. There is no fee, no required preparation, and no commitment to attend every month. To sign-up and receive the Zoom link for the next meeting, simply send an email to coffeeandcurrentevents@gmail.com.

New members are always welcome.

When: Fourth Friday of each month from 10am – 11:30am

Location: Zoom

Hosts: Steve Gilbert and Georgia Holmes


Dining Groups

Twice each month, we come together for a relaxed meal and good company. These gatherings offer an easy way to meet others, share stories, learn from one another, and enjoy lighthearted conversation. If you’d like to join, please contact the office.

Luncheon Group

When: Second or Third Thursday of each month at 11:30am

Location: Restaurants chosen monthly

Host: Sue Howard

Evening Dining Group

When: Third or Fourth Thursday of each month at 5:30pm

Location: Restaurants chosen monthly

Host: Sarah Suskovic

Weekly updates will include details about upcoming dining dates, and RSVPs can be made through the office manager.


Free First Friday Movie and Conversation

Join fellow Lifelong Learners members for a monthly movie and conversation event. These ongoing gatherings provide an opportunity to enjoy a film and engage in thoughtful discussion with others. This event is free for Lifelong Learners members. Please contact the office for more information.

When: First Friday of each month at 1pm

Location: Pathstone Latitude and Landing, 115 Rogers St., Mankato

For information on each film, enter the name of the movie in the search bar at imdb.com and find a trailer, director and cast list, run time and more. Trailers are also on YouTube. Your organizer, Steve Gilbert selects the movies and facilitates conversation afterwards. There is no need to pre-register but signing in to validate membership is required. See you there!