If you’re an avid reader, you might have considered starting your book club. You may even have gone so far as to find members and choose a meeting location. However, the logistics of doing this can be complex, especially since schedules are never fully compatible with each other. It is for this reason that a lot of book clubs choose to go virtual.
What is a virtual book club?
A virtual book club uses technology, usually the internet, to bring its members together to discuss books they are reading at their own pace. This can take place through online forums or chat room software from click4assistance.co.uk. Another option is using video conferencing websites, such as Skype. It is not necessary for every member to have the same book, although it can be helpful. The best part of a virtual book club is that members get the chance to communicate with each other without ever having to leave their homes.
How do I set up a virtual book club?
- Before you start your virtual book club, think about how often you would like to meet. If you are working with a group of friends, the meetings should be pretty regular. If your other club members are strangers or acquaintances, however, monthly meetings can suffice. Some clubs even opt for seasonal meetings or quarterly check-ins.
- Once you’ve decided on how often each member will get the chance to read the book, it is time to set up your group. A forum or chat room on a website makes for an easy meeting place. You can also use email or instant messaging to communicate with each other. It’s best to choose a dedicated platform that everyone involved is familiar with and comfortable using.
- Once you have chosen the platform you will use, set up a schedule. It is best to let members read the books at their own pace and then meet for discussions when everyone has finished them. This can create an open forum where those who have finished reading early can suggest books for the rest of the group and vice versa.
Tip: For clubs with many members or one that is geographically dispersed, video conferencing websites are the best option. All necessary is to choose a time and date for each meeting and then share it with every member. Then log on to your desired website at the appropriate time, call everyone else who has registered for your book club, and begin discussing what you’ve read.
Forming a group is easy, but keeping one going can be tricky. It takes time and effort to schedule meetings and keep everyone involved, not to mention reading the books! Those interested in starting their virtual book club should be prepared for this commitment before making any commitments themselves.
To Conclude
Virtual book clubs are great for avid readers who are too busy to start a traditional book club. They also allow people to meet other like-minded individuals, even if they live in different places. A virtual book club can bring together people from vastly different backgrounds and provide them with opportunities for discussions that they might never have otherwise had the chance to experience.