National Council of Teachers of English

Teachers as Readers: Forming Book Groups as Professionals

“The most successful aspect has been the opportunity to interact with other teachers, to hear different perspectives, and to function more as a group of learners than teachers.”

–Comment from a book group participant

What Are Book Groups?

The Teachers as Readers Project helps teachers encourage students to become lifelong readers. When teachers read and enjoy quality literature with confidence, they contribute to the rich, literate environment of classrooms.

Teachers as Readers Book Groups consist of teachers who:

Why Should Teachers Form Book Groups?

How to Form Book Groups

How to Fund Book Groups

Some book groups seek funding for reading materials. Begin by contacting local school districts, parent-teacher organizations, local Writing Project groups, local TAWL groups, and the local affiliates of the National Council of Teachers of English. Explore possible partnerships with local businesses and industries; prepare a simple grant proposal before talking or meeting with them. If outside funding is not available, use books currently in schools or public libraries. In any event, don’t let financial concerns stop you from reading widely and well.

Tips for Book Group Facilitators

Comments from Book Group Participants

“We read the books, came together informally before school once a month and shared/discussed what we’d read. In so doing, no only was our collective understanding enhanced, but we also came to know one another better as individuals. All in all, the sessions have been a very positive experience. The only ‘negative’ was that often we ran out of time before we’d said all we wanted to say.”

“This group has helped its members find a forum where all thoughts and opinions were welcomed and respected. It also helped the participants come to know each other better. These new relationships have carried over into other areas of the educational program.”

“I really found I could read for enjoyment during the school year. It was great!”

“The group has been a great means of getting new books into the hands of teachers and students.”

“I am a teacher of younger students, but I particularly enjoyed reading literature aimed at older children and meeting with upper-grade teachers. This experience gave me a broader perspective of the type of reading my students will encounter later.”

Teachers as Readers Committee

This position statement may be printed, copied, and disseminated without permission from NCTE.