You wouldn't be alone if you thought that book clubs were no longer around. They are perhaps passionate readers' best kept secret. Although they are still operating, they have most certainly undergone a facelift.
Fortunately, readers are still enjoying great books, and buying them too. While conventional book clubs still meet regularly in homes and churches across the world, these aren't quite as common as they once were.
The majority of book clubs can now be found on the internet. They have grown in popularity as it means you can meet others from the comfort of your own house. As a result, online book clubs have no geographical boundaries.
While some online book clubs are created just for that purpose, sometimes online forums or groups can develop into book clubs. While this is usually accidental, it can lead to members sharing their passion for reading and love of books.
Online book clubs tend to provide more structure for members. Many have several books being discussed at any one time. Book subjects vary greatly and members are set into small groups. In this type of book club, new books are set weekly or monthly.
Another sort of book club isn't about discussing books. Instead it is about purchasing them for a discounted rate. Years ago, these were run using the postal service and my mother had a membership. Each month we would receive new books for the whole family. However, before long our bookshelves were overflowing, so we had to stop our membership.
Nowadays, these book clubs have moved into the 21st century and have web sites. Rather than waiting for your monthly offers to come by catalog in the mail, you can choose the books you want online.
A number of additional services can be found in these book clubs, such as the ability to write your own book reviews which can help potential readers decide if a title is perfect for them.
Many of these book clubs offer you the chance to sign-up for their chat rooms, discussion boards and forums. Here you can mingle with those that share your interest. It's a fantastic way to socially network with like-minded people. Whether you just fancy a chat or wish to discuss books that you have just read, you will be able to find people to talk to within these areas.
As long as people love reading, book clubs will always exist. While the times have changed, so have the book clubs. And there is no doubt that these changes have been anything but good.
