Setting up a reading group

'I never imagined I'd learn to love reading so much. The wonderful thing is that it makes you feel you've got substance. I can now hold my own in a discussion about reading with my peers. But the main thing is that reading and book groups are such fun.' Denise, Brentwood

Why?
A reading group is a great way to get people sharing their reading experiences and encouraging each other to try things for the first time. Tutors and library staff who have started groups have been surprised by the degree of interest from learners at all levels. By focussing on discussion, reading becomes a social activity rather than one that is purely educational.

While the term "Reading group" has been used here to distinguish a particular type of shared activity with learners, it might be off-putting for beginner readers, making them think this activity is not for them. Most creative reading activity with this audience is likely to be much looser than a formal reading group, taking in book swaps, discussion in class and reader reviews. Sometimes groups are set up in an ad hoc way to look at a range of different books or other reading material for a specific purpose e.g. Mums and toddlers book club, with mums giving feedback on what their children have enjoyed and sharing views on the suitability of picture books for their children.

Reading activity can also spring from or be integrated into other interest groups, e.g. Family history - where group members come together because they share a passion for their subject. Taking part in a reading group can also be a progression route for students who have reached Level 2 but want some way of continuing; library staff and tutors have to work closely together to make this effective and fun.

Where?
A basic skills reading group need not necessarily meet in the library, although if the library has a suitable room available or is prepared to open to the group at times when it is normally closed, close links with the library can be more easily maintained. Some libraries may have special facilities where reading groups can meet.

Other places where basic skills reading groups have been successfully held include learning and training centres, children's centres and in the workplace.

How?
Using audio versions of books, and even videos and DVDs, it's possible for everyone to get involved. Here are a few tips:

• Provide a purpose for forming the group, e.g. to give feedback on a particular set of books, a gap in between courses. Those less familiar with reading are less likely to join a book group for its own sake.
• You might like to think of calling your group a "Book Club" or another term that fits with what is going on in the class or centre.
• Cater for a range of abilities. By focussing discussion on the subject, theme or actions of a book and what it makes the reader feel or think, everyone gets a chance to express an opinion regardless of their reading ability.
• Create a positive and friendly environment with a few simple ingredients: comfortable seating, posters on the walls, introductions and refreshments.
• Limit the size of the group to between five and 12 participants.
• Get agreement before you start about how you are going to select the books.
• Start with books from the First Choice collections that you know have been popular with other learners