Discussing a book with others, sharing what we thought of it, what we didn’t quite understand or what fascinated us is the natural next step that follows from reading. Often, these conversations begin with a friend or family member who has lent us a book or recommended it to us. Reading clubs take this a step further: they are meeting places where a group of readers, guided by a facilitator, share their impressions, discuss the book and discover new ways of reading the same work.
Every year, Barcelona’s libraries organise more than 180 reading clubs spread across the network’s 41 libraries. There is something for everyone: general clubs, which run throughout the academic year; themed clubs; one-off events; virtual clubs; bespoke clubs; language clubs; comic book clubs; and clubs aimed at children.
Mexico and its literature
The Barceloneta – La Fraternidad Library has traditionally had a single reading club, which focuses on a different theme each academic year. Next academic year, we will be travelling to Mexico with the aim of discovering the country through its literature. We will be reading classics such as Juan Rulfo, established authors such as Cristina Rivera Garza, and essential voices in contemporary fiction such as Valeria Luiselli. We will also explore the perspectives of Catalan exiles from the Civil War who found refuge in Mexico.
Two new book clubs
This academic year, we are also launching two new book clubs. The first is aimed at healthcare staff at the Hospital de Mar. Following a very positive pilot scheme, we are particularly delighted to consolidate this project with this vital group, who face demanding working conditions on a daily basis.
The second new initiative is a basic-level Catalan-language book club, organised in collaboration with the Consortium for Linguistic Standardisation. Over the course of nine sessions, participants will discuss adaptations of great literary classics – an initiative designed to help them take their first steps in reading in Catalan.
Registration opens on 8 September. Please enquire at the library.
