How are book club meetings kept interesting and fun?
I offer a lot of guidance on the titles selected. Books that people like generally don’t make for good discussions. We try to stretch people. When members say, “I never would have read that book if it weren’t for the group, but I loved it,” I feel we’ve been successful. Also, frequently people leave the meetings with a greater appreciation for the book after hearing the discussion. Our groups have a set ending time because the library closes at 9:00. People leave wanting more. With no ending time, discussion can drag on even when no one has anything new to say. Q: What advice would you give to other libraries that would like to start hosting book clubs, or provide resources for ones in the community? What are the benefits to hosting book clubs at a library? A: Do it! It’s great fun. I believe we have created an audience for literary fiction by encouraging people to read outside their comfort zone. Many people who have never attended the discussion group read every book on the list. Q:
