There’s a lot to love about being part of a book club: discovering books you might never have picked up on your own, hearing completely different perspectives on something you’ve just read, and, of course, having a regular excuse to get together with people who love books as much as you do.
But if you’re not already part of one, there’s one obvious problem: How do you actually find a book club to join?
It may take a little searching to find a group that feels like the right fit. Fortunately, there are more places to look than you might think.
Start with your local library
Libraries are one of the best places to begin. Many host their own book clubs, sometimes with several groups geared toward different genres or interests. And even if your library doesn’t run a club that works for you, ask a librarian. They may know about local groups looking for new members or other reading programs in your community.
Check your local bookstores
Independent bookstores are another great resource. Many host their own book clubs or partner with groups that meet in the store. Check the events calendar on your favorite bookstore’s website—or simply ask the next time you stop in.
And don’t assume there’s only one traditional “everyone reads the same novel” club to choose from. You may find groups devoted to mysteries, romance, nonfiction, classics, new releases, or any number of other interests.
Look beyond the usual bookish places
Sometimes the right book club is hiding somewhere you already spend time. Check community centers, neighborhood associations, churches, alumni groups, workplaces, coffee shops, and other local organizations.
It’s also worth looking at places like Meetup, Facebook and neighborhood groups online. Search for “book club” along with your town or neighborhood and see what turns up.
Ask around
This one sounds almost too simple, but tell people you’re looking for a book club.
Mention it to friends, coworkers, neighbors, or the person you always seem to end up talking books with. You may discover that someone already belongs to a group that welcomes new members—or that several people you know have been wishing they could find one, too.
Find a service that does the searching for you
Depending on where you live, there may also be resources specifically designed to connect readers with local groups.
For readers in the Milwaukee area, our friends at Good Land Reads have created a searchable directory that helps readers discover book clubs throughout the community. You can explore groups based on what, where, and how you like to read, making it easier to find one that feels like a good match.
And if you’re not in Milwaukee? It’s worth seeing whether your own community has a similar local resource.
Still can’t find the right club? Start your own.
Sometimes the book club you’re looking for simply doesn’t exist yet.
That doesn’t mean you need ten members, a year’s worth of books picked out, or an elaborate plan before you begin. A few people who want to get together and talk about books is plenty.
Finding your people
The best book club isn’t necessarily the biggest, oldest, or most organized one. It’s the one you look forward to attending—the group that introduces you to good books, gives you something to talk about, and makes reading feel a little more communal.
It might take a few tries to find yours. Or you might just have to create it yourself.
Either way, there are plenty of other readers out there looking for the same thing.