How to Start an African American Book Club

A book club is a great way to share your love of books with others. For African Americans, it can also be a way to celebrate and promote the literary works of African American authors. Here are a few ideas for organizing an African American book club.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Get the word out that you are starting a book club. Place ads in publications that are popular among African American readers. Post notices in libraries, bookstores and black churches. Mention your book club idea on African American social networking websites.

2. Choose your club members. Try to select people from a variety of lifestyles and professions. You group should include everything from entrepreneurs to stay at home moms and dads. This should help generate interesting discussions because the opinions that are shared will come from different perspectives.

3. Set rules and guidelines for the group. Decide on meeting times and places. You’ll also need to determine what types of books will be read, how they will be paid for, who will lead the discussions and what is expected of each member.

4. Have your first meeting. This should be a time for all of the members to get to know each other. Let them know about the rules and guidelines. Make sure everyone is clear about everything including policies on smoking, tardiness, and taking calls during the meeting.