What are the advantages of book groups using the Library's Book Group Kits?

• Book group members frequently have difficulty finding a copy of a book they want
  because it is checked out from the library. This is an easier way of borrowing
  books.

• Some book group members do not want to buy books and the group cannot find
  enough at a bookstore.

• Sometimes book groups cannot find discussion questions. Discussion questions
  come with every kit.

How many Book Group Kits does the library have?

• The Library is beginning this service in November, 2007 with 21 titles.

• The Library plans to add more kits in the future.

Is there a list of the book titles? What kinds of books are included?

Yes, there is a list of titles. Please ask a librarian to show you where to find the list.
The library staff selects which books to use. Books can be fiction or non-fiction
paperback editions. Most books are at an adult reading/interest level, some are also
recommended for teen readers.

What are the Book Group Kit rules for my group?

Kits are checked out using your library card.
They are housed at the Linda Vista Branch and can also be reserved using the
Library Catalog.
The person checking out the kit is responsible for returning all books and the
notebook containing the supplemental material.
Due to high demand, groups are allowed to check out only one or two kits at a time.
Each kit is checked out for 8 weeks and cannot be renewed. Overdue fines are the
same as a special loan at $2.50 per day.
Kits can be shipped to any Pasadena Public Library location for request pickup.
The kits must be returned to the circulation desk inside any of the Pasadena Public
Library locations.
If your group happens to lose a book, we ask that you replace it with another new
copy of the book, preferably in paperback.

How else does the Pasadena Library assist community book groups?

Each kit contains Things To Consider When Forming Your Book Group and the
CCBC (Cooperative Children’s Book Center Book Discussion Guidelines). In
addition, groups will find suggestions for further reading.

Individuals looking for book groups can find information using the Pasadena
Community Calendar and book group leaders can submit meeting times and locations
to the Pasadena Community Calendar.

In addition, many book groups work with Pasadena Public Library Branch Managers
to find meeting room space and to hear of new books. Central Library can offer
general assistance with requesting the kits and with using the Library catalog to
reserve kits by calling 626-744-4066, press 7.

My book group would like to donate part or all of a new Book Group Kit. Can we do this?

Yes. The Library would like to add additional kits in the future and we would love
donations. At this time, $180 will fund the purchase of 12 copies of Book Group Kit
titles.  Click here for more information about making library donations.

My group members have books from past book discussions that they no longer want.   May we donate them?

Yes.  In order to keep the same format, the Library would like twelve paperbacks in
good condition donated at the same time. Donations may be made to any Pasadena
Public Library location, clearly marked for the Book Group Kits. The Pasadena
Public Library reserves the right to select from these donations for inclusion in the
Book Group Kits.