The life-blood of a community, in my estimation, is the public library. The support and promotion of adult reading has been a part of Columbus Public Library’s work since the early 1900’s. “How many a man has dated a new era in his life from the reading of a book,” observed Henry David Thoreau in his great work, “Walden”. While the contemplation of books may have been for Thoreau a solitary act, many people have a strong desire to share the reading experience with other readers. For some, the discussion of a book is an essential aspect of reading it, as though the hours of silent passage demand a return to the realm of verbal exchange. This is quite understandable, for such discussion is invariably a valuable undertaking. Talking about a book with others is a way to continue reading it in a sense. It allows us to see with new eyes and to hear with different ears.

In their myriad manifestations, reading groups offer individuals a structured outlet for this desire to speak about books. Within a group, readers can focus their opinions and enhance their understanding and gather new perspectives. The group also imparts a social aspect that is not always a part of the reading experience. Many enduring friendships have undoubtedly been forged in the fires of a reading group discussion.

I thoroughly enjoy my job as the Reader’s Advisor for Columbus Public Library. There are challenges inherent in advising the book clubs. Especially trying to find titles that haven’t been read, that stimulate discussion, and that provide the essence of what reading is all about--- forming opinions. There is no point in reading if you do not take a look at life through the books that you read, and then, to have the fun of discussing them with other people.

The Library owns several volumes that help guide the creation of a productive and harmonious group. There is no magic formula, of course. Like good books themselves, each group is unique. But there are certain important steps that can be taken to ensure a good, balanced group. One author, Rollene Saal, provides clear and practical advice for those forming groups and for those who wish to add new life to existing groups. Of course, one of the key factors is the choice of books for the group. The more than 35 reading lists included in “The New York Public Library Guide to Reading Groups” have annotations (short synopsis) on the selections made. They are replete with titles that will assuredly spark memorable and meaningful discussions.

“The NYPL Guide to Reading Groups” covers everything from deciding who’s the Boss? to avoiding potential pitfalls. Some of the themed lists include: The Holocaust, Southern Writers, Jewish American Writers, The Realists, Short Books, A Second Look---well, you get the picture.

Another wonderful book in Columbus Public Library’s collection is, “The Reading Group Handbook---Everything You Need to Know to Start Tour Own Book Club” by Rachel W. Jacobsohn. You’ll get information on--- where to meet: homes, libraries, coffee shops; how to select members and decide a format for the meetings; the art of the discussion; how to read material critically and constructively in preparation for the meetings; and of course that all important element—food!!

The most recent addition to our collection is “The Book Club Companion-A comprehensive guide to the reading group experience” by Diana Loevy. As with the other two books it also has indispensable reading lists. Tips on keeping meetings lively; can’t miss discussion starters; recipes for cocktails, suppers, snacks, and special club events; themed parties, take-home mementos, and club trips. Interviews with authors and probably, the most ingenious list I’ve ever seen: “Time Travel: If you were in a 19—‘s Book Club”. The concept starts with the 1920’s and goes thru the 1990’s. Very, very interesting!!!

That’s just three of the titles that Columbus Public Library has to offer. Please ask for me if you need help in any way---coming up with terrific titles or starting a book club.

Please keep in mind, if, in the silent and personal act of reading, a part of the world is somehow given from one person to another---from writer to reader---then the reading group is a way for the reader to give it back to the world. Through discussion, the solitary act of reading becomes a process of exchange and shared reading. In this way, books can be magnets for bringing people together, even as they propel individuals into new areas of personal understanding and growth.