For adults book groups are a great way to get into some great writing.

Book groups can be a great way to interact and socialise with your community members, as well as explore some novels or travel writing that you have never considered before, for example.

You can choose to read the very latest books as a group, or you can look at copies of classic books – exploring themes and writers that you felt weren’t ever for you.

In the supported and social atmosphere of a book group you can often see ideas, opinions and views of the writing landscape that are entirely new, when seen from a fresh perspective. (Or just get stuck into a great love story together…!)

Below are some links to help with setting up a book group. Book groups can be started in a street, can be brought together by a common interest in a hobby or interest or just a great way to meet other people and read something new.

(Why not have a book group about aeroplanes or railways, for example. Read novels or histories that are entirely different from your usual approach to the subject and share your opinions with others in the group?).

Useful Links:

http://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Book-Group

http://www.thereadingclub.co.uk/TenTipsSuccessfulBookClub.html

http://www.oprah.com/oprahsbookclub/How-to-Start-Your-Own-Book-Club

For Children:

Children’s Book groups can be a great way to get the whole family, children, parents or carers into the habit of reading and exploring ideas. For libraries, if you use your library as the pivotal space for the group, you can attract authors to your Centre, you can get parents and carers involved in book days and library events.

Ideally your children’s book group  should follow the basic guidelines and structures as an adult book club. One way to get the structure right for children is to have a look at the Federation of Children’s Book Groups.

This national charity specialises in helping groups get started and to be involved in the children’s book world – working with you to get the most out of your children’s books ad their supported reading.

The Federation also has a great children’s book web links page – packed with access to information about authors, publishers and events in the children’s book world. Read more here…

If you would like to join or start a book club – for adults or children, why not pop into the library and let us know. We’ll see what we can do together to turn your ideas into reality….

The Marham Library Team