Book Club Materials
The Library provides a carefully curated collection of book club titles. This collection features a variety of books available in multiple copies, allowing many patrons to read them simultaneously. To view the list of available titles, search the online catalog using the term "book club titles." This search will display all the books in the collection, including copies in large print and audiobooks on CD. Peruse the list of titles Here.
Book club books are checked out as individual copies. However, a book club may designate one member to pick up multiple copies. There is no limit to the number of copies of the same title that can be checked out on a single account. Additionally, bags for carrying multiple copies are available for checkout from the service desks.
The book club titles are carefully selected by Library staff with an eye for popularity, variety, representation, engaging discussion topics, and merit. New selections are added several times a year.
Starting a book club tips and tricks
Successful book clubs foster a vibrant environment by establishing clear ground rules. Guidelines help ensure that members feel valued, inspired, and eager for each discussion. Whether written or kept informally stated, the following points can enhance your club experience:
Membership: determine the membership rules. Who are the members? Is the club open to newcomers, and who invites them?
Meeting logistics: agree on the location, time, and frequency of gatherings. It is particularly important to establish how much time is needed for reading and preparation.
Book selection: decide on the focus of the book club. Is there a specific reading interest, theme, or genre for the club? Determine how new titles are chosen.
Discussion facilitation: decide who leads discussions, and who finds or crafts the thought-provoking questions. Note that the library makes discussion guides available. See below.
Discussion focus: discuss how closely the group adheres to topics. Is it OK if the discussion drifts away from the discussion title? And how do you redirect if the conversation goes off-topic?
Preparation expectations: members should agree on the level of preparation expected. If a member hasn't read the book, is it acceptable to join to socialize?
Group values: if a book group is established on shared values or interests, it is important to explicitly communicate this. All members should feel informed, comfortable, and connected to the group's affiliations and value framework.
Tolerance for disagreement: discuss how the group handles differing opinions and establish signals for boundary respect.
Creating a safe space: commit to listening to one another and allowing time for everyone to share.
Periodic review: regularly revisit ground rules to ensure they enhance the book club experience. By addressing these points, book clubs can create an engaging and respectful atmosphere that celebrates the joy of reading and conversation.
Book discussion guides
We are currently developing website content. Discussion guides will be posted here soon!