Running Book Discussion Groups: A How-to-do-it Manual for Librarians

Oprah. The Today Show. Live! With Regis and Kelly. Their book clubs attract millions - and send hordes of readers to the library. Your library may not be able to hold millions, but there’s no reason your discussion group can’t be every bit as popular and appreciated as those on TV. This unique manual shows you step-by-step how to build, improve, and maintain successful, engaging book discussion groups. Chapters answer the fundamental questions: How do you build membership? Choose the right titles? Schedule and arrange meetings? Develop questions? Get free or discounted books? Provide an inviting atmosphere and setting? Planning, publicity, facilitating discussions, programming techniques, and assessment are discussed in detail. Essential advice on programming includes 15 ready-to-use discussion guides; One Book-One City program ideas; on line forums; title selection; and more. Any library starting or running book discussion groups will want this practical guide by their side.