Interlibrary Loans for Book Clubs
We can facilitate getting titles from other libraries for your book club at your request. Simply fill out this form and a staff person will contact you about your request. For recommendations ask a staff member for assistance – we love to talk about books!
Please allow 10-14 days to obtain books from other libraries for this service. So if you need books for your discussion 4 weeks before the meeting, please request copies at least 6 weeks before meeting. If you have a tighter time frame, we still may be able to get the materials you need, so please fill out the form linked above.
Stratford Library Book Clubs and Discussion Groups
Looking to join a book club? Try one of the Stratford Library’s book discussion groups, new members are always welcomed!
Books on Tap
Stratford librarian Sarah hosts this book discussion group to talk about offbeat books and enjoy local brews. We’ll meet one Tuesday evening a month at the the Whiskey Barrel located at 251 E Main St, Stratford, CT. We will meet at 7:00pm and then start our discussion at 7:30pm. All “Books on Tap” titles are available at the Checkout Desk.
Books Over Coffee
Library staffer Linda hosts this monthly book discussion program that has been a popular staple at the library for over 30 years. Current bestsellers and notable authors mark the selections chosen for discussion. All “Books Over Coffee” titles are available at the Checkout Desk. *Meets the last Wednesday of the month from Noon to 1:00 pm.
Don’t Know Much About
This adult book discussion group meets on the 2nd Wednesday of alternate months from 11am-noon (alternating opposite the months for the Little Gems discussion group). Stratford librarian Susan often selects titles which readers may not have read, whether newer books or from years ago. All books are available at the Checkout Desk.
FYA (Forever Young Book Club)!
Stratford librarians Jackie and Sarah host this book discussion group for adult that love to read Teen books. This new group meets on Wednesday’s every other month from 6:30pm – 7:30pm. There will be snacks. All “FYA” titles are available at the Checkout Desk.
Little Gems
This adult book discussion group meets every other month on the 2nd Wednesday of the month from 11am-noon. Noteworthy, shorter novels are often the selections chosen for the discussion, led by Stratford librarian Susan. All books are available at the Checkout Desk.
Monday Morning Buzz
Join us for a new type of book club with a twist! No assigned books, just lively conversation led by library staff about the latest titles and trends in books, movies and more with input from you. Older books, newer shows, or a movie that surprised you—let the group know where you stand on the latest from the publishers and producers. Share what you’re reading and watching, and hear recommendations from others! *Meets the first Monday of the month at 11:00 am.
Book Club Toolbox:
Here are a few online book club resources to help start and run a book group, get book recommendations and helpful reading guides, and more:
Getting Started
- Five Steps to Starting a Book Club (PenguinRandomHouse.com)
- How to Start a Book Club – 10 Step Guide (litlovers.com)
- How to Structure Your Meetings (ILoveLibraries.org)
- 10 Tips for Hosting a Digital Book Club (bustle.com)
Book Selection
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- BookBrowse
- BookClub.com
- Book Club Resources (from Penguin Random House)
- IndiBound
- Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 21st Century (so far)
- Reading Group Choices
Recommended for online book groups:
Hoopla Book Club Hub – Selection of online ebooks and audiobooks, with every title available instantly, with no holds, no waiting, and no late fees. (Stratford Library card required)
Good Conversation
More . . .
- Book Club Check-Up (bookbrowse.com)
- 10 Ways to Make Book Clubs More Fun (bustle.com)
- Six Reasons to Join a Book Club (stratfordwritersfestival.com – Ontario, Canada)