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Reading Circles are easy, fun - and flexible!

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1. Decide how and when you want the program to run

  • Sessions can be held in 6 or 8 week blocks or run continuously

  • Sessions will need to run for between 1 to 1.5 hours 

  • Allow for participants to be flexible in their attendance - if attendance at all sessions is a requirement then it will be harder for people to commit

  • Sessions can be held in the main library or in a meeting room within the library

  • You might like to offer refreshments at each session

  • You can hold sessions during the day or in the evening - though remember that evening sessions make the program accessible for people who work or care for young children during the day

  • Look out for other CaLD programs in the area - you don't want Reading Circle to coincide with another program

  • Be open to support from volunteers

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2. Promote your program

  • Use simple language

  • Try print, video and social media promotion

  • Distribute to local stakeholders, for example TAFE, local schools and English Conversation Classes

  • Try a simple RSVP system like "Text YES to [mobile number]"

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3. Collect your resources

  • See the Resources page on this website for suggestions

  • Try to use resources that focus on Australian culture and history

  • Does your local government have a Reconciliation Action Plan? Resources that focus on First Australian culture are an important step towards reconciliation and harmony.

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4. Welcome your participants

  • Speak clearly and slowly

  • Listen carefully and repeat back if you are unsure what someone has said

  • Smile!

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5. Explain the procedure carefully

  • For example, "Today we are going to read about ANZAC Day. We will take turns to read one paragraph each. I will correct your pronunciation as we read. At the end of the page, you can ask questions about any words or phrases that you don't understand and we will talk about what we have read."

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6. Use the library resources to help explain concepts

  • Junior Non Fiction books are a great resource

  • Encourage participants to borrow library resources

 

7. Google images whenever you need to

  • Remember, a picture tells a thousand words.

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8. Evaluate the program

  • Use plain, clear language in your questionnaires

  • Consider interviewing participants for in depth feedback

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