Book Group Kits

The Library  has a wide selection of titles available in sets of 10-12 copies. Book Groups can nominate a selection of titles they wish to read during the year, which can be collected from a nominated branch when available. Independent Book Groups are charged an annual fee of $100 per Group for this service. 

Discussion Guidelines:

1. Try to start the discussion with positive comments first – what did you like about the book?  You’ll probably find some common ground, but if your group likes different things about the book that might be even more interesting.
2. Next, try to express criticism as questions rather than statements.  Strong negative opinions are good for discussions, but expressing them too stridently can make others defensive.
3. Avoid recapping the book; you won’t have enough time.  Stimulating discussions begin with opinions.
4. If you’re comparing the book to others, try to draw comparisons to books your entire group has read and can discuss – the books your group has already read together are the best.
5. You can use these discussion questions to assist you if you would like to encourage discussion.

Selection Guidelines:

1. Agree ahead of time on a process by which your group can select books.  One method is to each submit a suggestion and then take a vote.  No voting for your own book!
2. Choose multiple books at once, so that you don’t have to take too much time choosing at the end of each discussion.
3. Suggest books you enjoyed and have something to say about.  Anything that takes your group outside of its usual genre will probably provoke a more interesting discussion, but you might not have enough to say on title that’s too obscure.