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can be launched and nurtured and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with organisations across sectors on a variety of highly successful book club initiatives.


A team that reads together, aren’t just learning what to think , they are learning how to learn – cultiv ating a curious and growth mindset


a shared journey. When we discuss a book, it helps us to explore different perspectives, challenge assumptions, and build a shared vocabulary. This communal sense-making strengthens relationships, breaks down departmental silos, encourages creativity and also helps support a culture of psychological safety.


Book clubs sharpen our minds Critical thinking is the ability to analyse information objectively and make reasoned judgements. In a book club, this skill is exercised through the “friction” of differing perspectives and encourages us to present our views with evidence by applying critical thinking, listening well and with empathy.


Book clubs combat loneliness Book clubs can transform a solitary hobby into a source of community and cognitive growth. This helps to combat loneliness, which is a common and widespread issue


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in the modern world. Book clubs provide us with a wonderful opportunity to feel a sense of belonging by connecting and sharing our experiences. We can learn so much from each other because everyone we meet knows something we don’t and social learning is an excellent way to share wisdom.


Book clubs support agility The ability to pivot and thrive in a world that is in a constant state of u relies on a workforce of lifelong learners and a book club creates a self-sustaining ecosystem of continuous improvement. When a team reads together, they aren’t just learning what to think, they are learning how to learn. This helps us to remain agile thinkers and tap into our dynamic capability by cultivating a curious and growth mindset.


Book clubs – How to get started There are many ways that book clubs


Here are my top 3 tips to get them off the ground: 1. Be fleie Explicitly state that members of the club are welcome een if the haent finished the book. This lowers the barrier to entry and ensures that the book session remains a stress-free experience rather than a source of additional pressure. 2. Democratise the book selection Rotate the responsibility of picking the book or use a monthly poll to vote on a shortlist. When people have a say in what they are reading, engagement increases and the club feels like a grassroots community rather than a top-down mandate.  erient Experimentation is the best approach for a workplace book club because every company culture has a different rhythm. So, it helps to actively invite feedback and encourage “book club” champions to get involved and explore ways to keep improving.


In summary Book clubs are powerful engines for both personal and professional development and I have witnessed firsthand how ook clus roide an excellent creative hub for problem solving and driving innovation. By transforming the solitary act of


reading into a shared social experience, these groups actively encourage a culture of continuous learning and intellectual curiosity. Supporting literacy in this way doesn’t just build smarter teams, it nurtures an environment where growth is celebrated and every voice and experience is heard. n


Liggy Webb is an award-winning author and human skills speaker. She is widely respected for her ability to distil complexity and offer practical ways to support resilient and agile people.


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