Last June, I posted a blog entry, “Writers Helping Writers”, wherein I wrote about the benefits of writing groups. At the other end of that thread are reading groups — book clubs. They’ve been around almost as long as there have been books, being helped in the 1400s with the invention of the printing press. Some of the earliest groups formed to share the cost of purchasing books, which were expensive. Later, some were hosted by authors. Other groups formed around the ambience of coffee houses or coffee tables.

Harnessing the reach and influence of modern media, Oprah Winfrey gave book clubs a huge boost when she used her popular show to launch Oprah’s Book Club in 1996. During its 15-year run, it recommended 70 books, including some obscure titles that Oprah’s endorsement catapulted into best sellers. She continues her book promotion through her OWN media empire. While other shows, including Jon Stewart’s The Daily Show, NPR’s Fresh Air and syndicated radio show Imus in the Morning also provide springboards for authors of various stripes, Oprah went one important step further: she promoted the concept of book clubs where members gather and encourage reading.

The New York Times has estimated that 5 million Americans currently participate in book clubs around the U.S. What’s the attraction? For some, it’s a shared interest in a genre, a topic or an author. For others it’s an opportunity to exchange ideas. And for some, it’s purely social. The common element is the energy that occurs when people come together in a shared experience connected to art. That energy elevates both books and those who read them.

Because the nature, size and location of book clubs are so diverse, there is no single source that lists all of them. To find a club that suits your interests, simply search online using key words + “book club”. You’re sure to find several clubs to consider. If not, be the one to start one!