Reading Groups and Services

From a vibrant programme of traditional reading groups to Reading Friends conversation clubs to projects that re-kindle the love of reading, Newcastle Libraries has services to suit every kind of reader.  Joining a group is a great way to explore new literature, meet people, and share what you love about books. 

Reading Groups for Everyone

Regular group meetings are a great way to explore new reading material and connect with new people. 

Newcastle Libraries Reading Groups

The groups listed on this document are run by library staff or library volunteers and are open to new members. Scroll down for a text-only, accessible version. 

Timetable of activities for adults and teens

We also host several independent reading groups across our library branches, reading a range of literature.  These groups include "Proud Pages" Queer reading group, Litpop group, Euro Crime and Deaf Readers.  Visit this interactive database for contact details. 

Borrowing books for your reading group

Newcastle Libraries has more than 230 titles available for reading groups to borrow. Discover reading group titles on Newcastle Libraries catalogue.

Request the title you'd like by email to: Newburn Library.

Starting your own reading group

If you would like to start your own reading group we can help you with that too.  Email us at readinggroups@newcastle.gov.uk with your availability and literature preferences.

For tips to prepare your first session, download the Reading Agency's How to Start a Reading Group resource pack.

Library Friends Conversation Clubs

Do you want to get together, chat, read, share stories, laugh, and build community in your local area? 

Join a Library Friends group with Newcastle Libraries!  

Groups in your area

We are currently developing Reading Friends groups across Newcastle Libraries. Email us at readinggroups@newcastle.gov.uk if you'd like to be notified when a group starts in your area.

Call for Volunteers

We’re building a team of friendly group leaders who are comfortable bringing people together. 

The library service will provide reading material and conversation-starters but we also encourage our volunteers to bring the best of themselves to the sessions. Whatever your hobby or interest, we can find a way to build sessions around it. And once people start chatting, the conversation-starters are rarely needed! 

Join our team and help to tackle loneliness and improve wellbeing for your community. Full induction provided. 

To join a group or express an interest in volunteering, email readinggroups@newcastle.gov.uk

Reading Ahead and Adult Literacy Services

Newcastle Libraries take part in the Reading Agency's Reading Ahead project every year. This project challenges participants to pick six reads and record, rate and review them in a personal reading diary - printed or digital. After completing their diary they receive a certificate or digital badge. Those taking part in prison receive a free dictionary on completion thanks to charity Give A Book.

The programme isn't just about books - newspapers, magazines, poems, websites all count too! The aim is that participants challenge themselves to try something new and discover that reading can be a pleasure in the process. 

Adult Literacy Resources

We also support adult literacy through our Improving Readers collection that features reading material for all literacy levels. All resources are borrowable by individuals and organisations. If you're interested in using sets of resources in a classroom or group setting, email readinggroups@newcastle.gov.uk. We can also signpost you to organisations in the local area who can support you to improve your literacy.