Do you have your own book club or have you always wanted to start one? Did you know that the library has dozens of book club kits created just for you? Book club kits make it easy for you to host your own book club! We compile all the books and discussion questions; all you need to do is check out the kit and distribute it to your book club members!
What is a book club kit?
Book club kits were created so you can easily host a book club from anywhere, without the hassle of tracking down multiple copies of a book! Each kit has 7-10 copies of a book, a discussion guide, author information, and a book sign-out sheet for your club members. All of this is packed in a handy New Berlin Public Library canvas tote. Kits can be checked out for 6 weeks. They may also be renewed if no one is waiting.
How do I browse what titles are available?
There are three ways to browse the book club kits that we have:
View our collection from the catalog home page. Go to newberlinlibrary.org/catalog and scroll to the bottom of the homepage where it says “Special Collections,” then click on “Book Club Kits.” A saved search will come up with all of our titles.
Do a catalog search on your own. Go to newberlinlibrary.org/catalog and enter the search term “book club kit.” Then, filter the Owning Library to "New Berlin Public Library" and the Format to "Kit."
Browse our kits on our website on our Book Club page.
We are regularly adding new kits, so be sure to check back often to see what’s new!
How can I make sure I get the kit I want for the month my book club needs it?
You can put a kit on hold just like other library items; you will just need a library card from Bridges Library System to do so. You may postpone your hold until a future date, if you’d like. We recommend activating the hold 7-10 days before you need to pick up the item.
Please note: On the date your hold is activated, the kit will be set aside by a library staff member to be picked up by you at the circulation desk. If the kit is still checked out by another patron, it will be set aside for you when it is returned and checked in. You will get your regular hold notification when it is ready for pick up. If you have concerns about your pickup date or need assistance suspending your hold, please call the Reference Desk at 262-754-1815.
How do I manage lending the books in the kit to my book club members?
The book club kit itself will be checked out to a single library patron’s card. The copies of the book are numbered, and the patron checking out is encouraged to use the included sign-out sheet to keep track of who in the club has each book.
Individual book club members should return their books to the club leader, who will then return the complete book club kit to the circulation desk. Please do not return book copies individually.
What if you don't have a title I’m looking for?
If you don’t see a title you’re looking for, we are always taking suggestions! To suggest a purchase, fill out our online Request a Book Club Kit form!
Now’s the time to plan ahead for next year!
If you need help or have any questions, we’re always happy to help! Call the Reference Desk at 262-754-1815 to speak with one of our librarians.