About The Groups
We run a number of reading groups across the Borough's libraries, and anyone willing to read new and different works is welcome to join in discussions.
Perhaps, you run or are part of a reading group in the local area, that although not affiliated with the library, wish to benefit from the support of the library. Maybe, you wish to join a reading group, but not necessarily one of those in the library.
If you would like to tell us about your reading group, please send your name, group name, address (or email address) and contact telephone number to us using the contact details on the right-hand side of this page. Please also indicate whether you would be happy for us to pass your details on to people enquiring about joining a reading group.
You could even start your own reading group.
Reading Group Events
We held a reading group meeting with special representatives at Bracknell Library. The aims of the evening were simply to meet, share ideas and inspire!
Why You Should Join A Reading Group...
According to Jenny Hartley in her book on reading groups, there are currently around 50,000 people involved in reading groups within the UK. There could even be more than that, so the question is what exactly do they get out of belonging to a reading group?
- The most important benefit to be gained from belonging to a reading group is the chance to discuss - and argue - the merits of books you have read with others who have also enjoyed that reading experience. Their points will invariably show you new angles to a book and even whole ideas contained in there that you did not necessarily notice or see in the same way. Likewise you will probably enlighten them with your views. No-one is likely to be a professional critic so your opinion is just as valid as anyone else's, and you will probably be surprised at how much you find there is to say.
- How often have you read a book and tried to get a friend to read it too so that you could discuss it with them? Reading groups are excellent for making friends and bringing people together over the shared experience of reading. Whether you become part of a group at work and get to know your colleagues better, or join a library group and meet new people, this is a safe and challenging way to socialise - and there will always be plenty to talk about! You can even set up your own group - of friends or other likeminded people with the help of our easy to follow guide.
- If you are a little set in your ways in terms of what you do and don't like to read, then you could be surprised at just how interesting books can be that you would never have picked up yourself. Just as the group will sometimes have to read your book suggestion, you will also have to read titles chosen by other group members. This process helps you to discover new authors to treasure just as often as it reveals authors that you will wish to avoid in future!
- Most reading groups are very informal and have refreshments on hand during meetings, so they provide a great couple of hours out of your schedule to indulge and relax. There is the added bonus that if you are a busy person, and need an excuse to sit down and read, then what better reason to take a break and pick up a book could you want?
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