Guelph Public Library Book Clubs
The library hosts seven book clubs that are open to Adult library members with a valid Guelph Public Library (GPL) card. The clubs meet from September to June at several branches (see below for detailed schedules). Each meeting lasts about one hour and is hosted by a library staff member who facilitates an open discussion about the book and topics relevant to the book’s content. Each member is encouraged to participate equally with their ideas and opinions about the book. Copies of the books for the next discussion will be available to sign out at each meeting or at the host branch. For a detailed schedule of the meeting dates and titles, please click here. If you are interested in attending any of the meetings, please contact us at bookclub@library.guelph.on.ca or 519-824-8220.
Services for Book Clubs
The library offers more than 170 titles as book club sets which can be borrowed for an extended period to local book clubs. A list of our book club sets can be viewed here. If the library doesn`t own a set for the title your group wants to read, we can gather as many copies as the possible from the branches in the Guelph Public Library (GPL) system. In some circumstances, we may be able to source copies from other library systems. However, we cannot guarantee to supply sufficient copies for all your club members. If your group is interested in using the book service provided by Guelph Public Library, please contact us at bookclub@library.guelph.on.ca or 824-6220 and provide us with the following information: Name of one member that will act as the GPL liaison. The copies of books will be the responsibility of this person and will be borrowed on their card. The number of members in your group The Branch location where you would like to pick up your books A list of the pickup dates (usually about one month before your meeting) and return dates (usually the day after your meeting) A wish list of titles your group would like to read. While we will strive to accommodate your requests, please be aware that we will schedule your bookings based on the availability of copies in the book club set. We cannot guarantee that sufficient copies of the titles you request will be available for a specific date. It is a good idea to plan ahead! We process bookings in the order they are received. Most groups will submit their wish list in the spring for the entire book club season usually running from September to June. To assist the book club co-ordinator with the bookings, please take the time to fill in the Booking form and send it to bookclub@library.guelph.on.ca. Remember that we will book titles for you based on availability. If you have questions about how to start your own book club, the staff at Guelph Public Library can help. Feel free to e-mail us at bookclub@library.guelph.on.ca with your questions or for advice on selecting titles. We would love to hear from existing book clubs too! Your input on what works and what does not work for your club is always welcome.
Online Bookclub
Guelph Public Library Book Club Blog Join the online discussion.