To run a teen reading club, you need to: choose engaging books aligned with their interests, actively involve them in selecting future reads, facilitate open discussions, incorporate creative activities related to the book, and create a welcoming environment where teens feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions; key steps include choosing a leader, deciding on meeting frequency, selecting books based on member input, establishing discussion guidelines, and planning fun activities to complement the reading experience. 

Key steps to running a teen reading club:

  • Gather interest and recruit members:
  • Promote the club through flyers, announcements, and social media. 
  • Consider reaching out to local youth organizations or school libraries for potential members. 
  • Have an initial meeting to gauge interest and discuss expectations. 
  • Choose a club leader:
  • Select a responsible adult or older teen to facilitate discussions and manage logistics. 
  • Book selection process:
  • Create a system for choosing books, such as voting on options or letting members suggest titles. 
  • Consider different genres and themes to cater to varied interests. 
  • Offer a preview of the book to pique interest before committing to a selection. 
  • Set meeting schedule and structure:
  • Determine how often to meet (e.g., monthly, bi-weekly). 
  • Allocate time for introductions, book discussion, and potential related activities. 
  • Establish ground rules for respectful dialogue and active listening. 
  • Facilitate discussions:
  • Pose open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking and diverse perspectives. 
  • Allow time for each member to share their thoughts and opinions. 
  • Use prompts to guide discussion if needed, such as “What was your favorite character?” or “How did the setting impact the story?”. 
  • Creative activities:
  • Incorporate art projects, writing prompts, or role-playing related to the book. 
  • Organize book-themed movie nights or author presentations. 
  • Host a “book swap” where members can exchange books they’ve read. 
  • Promote reading beyond meetings:
  • Encourage members to keep reading logs or share book recommendations. 
  • Organize book-themed contests or challenges. 
  • Connect with local libraries and bookstores to access author events or special programs. 

Important considerations:

  • Accessibility:
  • Ensure books are available in appropriate reading levels and formats to cater to diverse needs. 
  • Inclusivity:
  • Create a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable sharing their thoughts and opinions. 
  • Flexibility:
  • Adapt the club structure and activities based on member feedback and interests.