Have you always said you were going to start a book club, but never actually got around to it due to your busy schedule? Now that you’re spending more time at home, with countless hours in the day to fill with stay-at-home activities, it seems like the perfect time to start a virtual book club! Below are several great tips to get your club up and running… so round up your literary loving friends and co-workers and get to planning!
Tip #1: Reach Out to Your Fellow Bookworms
You should decide early on if your virtual book club is going to be intimate, with only a few close peers, or a large group for socialization and easy conversation. Whether you’re engaging in deep discussion about classic, feminist literature or drinking wine while chatting about a guilty pleasure pick, you’re going to want members who love to read just as much as you do!
Tip #2: Pick Your Virtual Platform
Lucky for you, there are plenty of great communication platforms where you can do face-to-face, video chats. Some options include FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, and Google Hangout. Pick your favorite, learn the ropes, and you’re set!
Tip #3: Use Online Resources for Planning and Scheduling
Since your book club is virtual, you’re going to want to have an app or online tool for scheduling purposes or for planning your next read. Some great options include GroupMe, Google Hangout, or simply by creating a Facebook Group. Once you select your favorite, start planning and scheduling when you will read your books and when you will meet.
Tip #4: It’s All in a Name...so pick a good one
You might think naming your club is silly, but we think it’s a necessity! Brainstorm with your virtual book club members until you come up with a name that fits your group the best. Try including fun elements like favorite genres, authors, or book titles… the possibilities are endless!
Tip #5: Establish Rules (Every Good Club Needs Them!)
Before you get too wrapped up in the reading, make sure your group creates a solid list of rules. Try creating a virtual discussion protocol, like deciding how long each person can share their opinions, or choosing a designated facilitator for conversations. While they might seem restricting, setting some good ground rules will be worth it in the long run.
Tip #6: Pick Your Books and Dive Right In
Once all of the logistics of your virtual book club are settled, you can finally get to the good stuff…the books! Decide on the first couple of books you want to read, follow your schedule, and then crack open your first pick and get to reading!
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