Although it's the age of digital, few things beat reading books on old-fashioned paper. For me, it's relaxing to step away from the computer for a while and lose myself in a good novel. Sometimes I find interesting books on my own. Other times friends are more than excited to suggest interesting books. A great way to share common interests in reading is to start (or join) an online book club. Here's a great way to start your own gay book club.
Prefer just to join an existing group? Join the Gay Life Book Club.
Prefer just to join an existing group? Join the Gay Life Book Club.
Difficulty: Average
Time Required: Varies
Here's How:
- Select a Club Type.
There a couple of ways you can start a book club—in-person or online. Obviously, in-person groups meet face-to-face and online groups in chat rooms, boards, blogs or forums. Choose a club type that best fits your style. - Pick a Theme (or Don't).
Will your club have a theme? LGTB fiction, non-fiction, mystery, biographies...? Or do you want your club to have a variety of themes? As with any large group, consensus is important; however, successful groups have strong leadership. Get input on a common theme, discuss then set a deadline for a decision. - Recruit Members.
You can recruit your family, friends or co-workers. You can also post flyers for other local members. For online groups, recruit members by posting ads on your personal site, myspace or even in your signature. - Create a Group Email Account.
Have members submit at least their name (or screen name) and email address. Choose an email address that's easy to understand and remember. - Choose a Moderator.
It's essential that any book club have a moderator to lead and facilitate the discussion. You may want to moderate yourself or find a volunteer. Some book clubs even hire professional moderators to help foster more in-depth discussions. - Create Guidelines.
Things to consider are:- How frequently the group will meet (most meet once a month to discuss one book)
- How to select the books (will the moderator choose or will the group vote?)
- Pick a consistent day, time and place to meet each month
- Select the Books.
The book selection process should be consistent throughout the life of the club. Have the members submit book ideas (with a synopsis), then narrow the selections down by vote. Set firm submission and voting deadlines. Members can suggest books they've already read, new bestsellers or any number of books. It's probably best to choose books months in advance as not to interrupt the flow of the monthly discussions. Remember, there is no expiration date for book clubs and books live on the shelves for quite some time. A book not chosen this month can always be scheduled for the next. - Create a Forum for Discussion.
As previously discussed, face-to-face groups should pick a consistent day, time and place to meet with a moderator. Online groups can either hold discussions in chat, by blog comments, by forum or in private groups. - Keep the Discussion Going.
It's easy to point out shy members in face-to-face groups, but online it's nearly impossible to read body language and feel emotions. Stay active in the discussion and follow up questions with more questions. Encourage less vocal members to share their thoughts. However, be respectful as some less vocal members like to be in the discussion without being the discussion. - Be flexible and Have Fun.
It may take some time to fine tune the operation of your group. A successful group takes planning, but don't get stuck in the details. Jump in, recruit and let the other members help make the group enjoyable for all. Your club will grow and improve with time. All it takes is your commitment and passion for reading.
