Come check out Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library’s newest additions of books on the subject of home brewing and be sure to attend Let’s Make Beer on Tuesday, April 24, 2012 from 7pm–8pm in Marvin Auditorium 101BC.

The Oxford Companion to Beer by Garrett Oliver

The Oxford Companion to Beer by Garrett Oliver is a brand new book that was recently added to the library. I mostly reserved it to take home to my husband, a home brewer and beer enthusiast, and he just could not believe how massive it is! It seriously covers just about every subject you have ever wanted to know about beer and then some and would almost liken it to a beer encyclopedia. This will definitely be a book we refer to again and again as we delve deeper into the world of brewing.

Brewed Awakening: Behind the Beer and Brewers Leading the world’s Craft Brewing Revolution by Joshua M. Bernstein

Outside of being designed well, Brewed Awakenings is a great book full of nice photography that describes not only how to brew, but Bernstein also recommends different styles of beer and brands to try out while exploring the wide variety available. Let’s face it, it can be a little daunting, but this will help make it seem easier when trying your first stout (I’m told all the time my taste is odd or “manly!” I’m not sure what to think about that!). So you have the ingredients, different varieties, history, seasonal beers, different packaging, how to make your own, and then of course how to store and also enjoy your new discoveries all in one little package. I highly recommend checking this out from the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library!

 He Said Beer, She Said Wine by Sam Calagione and Marnie Old

Okay, this is not a brand new book now is it incredibly new to the collection, but what I love about it is the fact that it provides recipes and them gives pairings for both beer and wine. This would make a great source for a date night when you maybe want to try a little of both or perhaps your significant other really does not like beer. This is a great place to start! The photos really grab your attention and I like how the different sections are organized. Come grab this and see what you think!

If that is not enough for you, please come to Let’s Make Beer Tuesday April 24, 2012 7PM–8PM in Marvin Auditorium 101BC where local home brewers from the Greater Topeka Hall of Foamers come and talk to us about making beer! Share what types of beers you like to try and where in Topeka you find them. Leave a comment below – I would love to hear from you!