Tuckahoe's members select books for several months ahead, using recommendations from both the members of the group and from Andrea. Both Tuckahoe and Varina have experimented with a thematic approach to selection. Sometimes two books are read around a theme to give two differing points of view. For mysteries in an academic setting, the group read Quieter Than Sleep by Joanne Dobson and An Imperfect Spy by Amanda Cross. During one year, Varina's group concentrated on themes such as Southern fiction, mysteries, and African-American biography.
Members read any book on a certain topic, and no specific title was chosen.
In January of 2000 Varina will revisit the theme idea, when the group will compare the Harry Potter books to the C.S. Lewis Narnia series and the Prydian series by Lloyd Alexander. To sum up, Henrico librarians have learned that successful book discussion groups require a prepared and dedicated library staff facilitator and assistance from other staff and volunteers. Input from the members regarding the selection of the books is important. Allowing time for socializing encourages the members to get to know each other better, since book club members who enjoy each other's company enjoy the discussions more. Finally, Andrea, Ingrid, and Pam all try to get to know the members of the group as individuals and to keep in touch with them.