Book clubs have undergone a significant transformation in recent years, evolving from quiet discussions to vibrant social events. These gatherings, which once were limited to introverted hangouts, now attract people from diverse backgrounds and age groups, and offer a unique blend of intellectual exploration and social interaction. The growth of book clubs can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which created an opportunity for people to rediscover their passion for reading and seek meaningful relationships. With the rise of social media, book clubs have become a platform for people to connect with like-minded individuals and share their love for books. Some book clubs have incorporated activities outside of discussing the book itself, such as wine tastings, blind book exchanges, and local walks or running tours. These events have become popular among readers, who are seeking to enhance their reading experience and build connections with others. The trendiest book clubs today often feature a mix of intellectual and social activities, such as book discussions, author meet-and-greets, and workshops. These events have created a new sense of community among readers, who are no longer just book lovers but also social butterflies. One notable example of this evolution is the Book and Sip chapter of Philly’s book club, founded by Ijanae Dawkins. This group has become a hub for social events, with book discussions, wine tastings, and even Barry’s Bootcamp classes. Dawkins said, “I have people every month come up to me at the book parties, and they’re like, ‘Oh my gosh, I was so shy coming into it. This is my first book party. I made three new friends and we’re going out next weekend.’”
Another example is the Read and Run club in Chicago, founded by Allison Yates. This group combines book discussions with physical activity, such as running, to create a unique and engaging experience. Yates said, “Reading is such an escape, but really what people want is to feel something deeply, and it slows us down a lot in a time when everything is digital and everything is fast-paced.”
The growth of book clubs has also been driven by the rise of online communities, such as TikTok’s #BookTok and Threads’ #Bookthreads. These platforms have given small authors a platform to showcase their work and connect with readers, creating a new wave of book clubs that are all about social sharing and community building. Mishayla Twyman, founder of Your Local Book Club in Austin, Texas, said, “I met a lot of my closest friends through book club, and so we kind of wanted to branch out and be like, ‘OK, let’s make this more than just about books.’” Her group has built a community of over 1,500 members, with regular social events, yearbook-style photos, and a “little free library.”
The impact of book clubs on readers has been significant. According to Eventbrite, book club events have proliferated by 31% on the platform in 2024 compared to 2023. The most popular types of events are silent book clubs and book clubs for romance-fantasy readers, which have more than doubled and quadrupled, respectively. The popularity of book clubs can be attributed to the fact that they offer a unique blend of intellectual exploration and social interaction. Readers are seeking to connect with others who share their passion for books, and book clubs provide a platform for this connection to happen. In conclusion, the evolution of book clubs has been a significant development in the world of reading. From quiet discussions to vibrant social events, book clubs have become a platform for readers to connect with others, share their love for books, and build meaningful relationships.
| Reasons for growth | COVID-19 pandemic |
| People seeking meaningful relationships | Yearning for in-person activities |
| Need for intellectual exploration | Desire for social interaction |
- Increased social interaction and community building
- More diverse and inclusive book clubs
- Opportunities for authors to connect with readers
- Unique and engaging experiences
In the age of social media, book clubs have become a powerful platform for readers to connect with others, share their love for books, and build meaningful relationships. As the book club landscape continues to evolve, it will be exciting to see how these gatherings transform and adapt to the changing needs and interests of readers.
