Agree on book selections as a group.
Book clubs provide a forum for avid readers to get together and discuss books and literature. They also offer a fun social atmosphere to make new friends who share your interests. Book clubs also allow people who might not get out that much--such as seniors--to spend a couple of hours in the presence of like-minded individuals. Starting a book club for seniors requires an enthusiasm for literature and spreading the word to potential members.
Instructions
1. Decide which type of books your club will read. Perhaps your club will focus on mysteries, romance novels or general fiction. If you’re holding your club at a synagogue or church, you might choose religious fiction or nonfiction. Setting a theme will help keep your club focused and also help narrow your book choices.
2. Select a leader. For the first few meetings, keep the same person in charge-- someone who will pose questions to the group, moderate discussions and keep track of time. You don’t have to be the leader just because you’re organizing the club. Perhaps you have a friend or coworker who’s interested in leading the group. After several meetings, when members are more settled in, you can rotate who will lead each meeting, based on interest and experience.
3. Choose a location. Ask your local library or bookstore whether they have space for your event. You can also use your home or the home of another member. If you hold your meetings at a cafe or coffee house, choose a time when the establishment usually is not busy, so you will be able to secure seating for your members.
4. Post ads to recruit members. Put fliers on bulletin boards at local senior and community centers, retirement communities, libraries, bookstores, grocery stores and cafes. Briefly describe your senior book club and include your name and phone number or e-mail address. Also post ads on Craigslist’s "Community" section to find members.
5. Explain your club to prospective members who call or e-mail for information. Ask them which type of books they like to read and why they would like to join the club. Let them know where and when you are holding your first meeting, and ask them to bring several book suggestions, as well as reviews of their selected books, if possible. Also ask whether prospective members need any special arrangements, such as large-print books, audio books or space for a wheelchair or scooter.
6. Hold your first meeting. Ask each member to introduce herself and also discuss her book selections. Get to know what the members like to read. As a group, decide on your first book choice and set a time and date for your next meeting.
7. Ask your leader to prepare a list of discussion topics and questions for the next meeting. Often you can find prepared book club guides on the websites of individual book publishers.
