Start or join a book club

Okay, you knew this was going to be top of the list. But book clubs are a stalwart of the literary scene for a reason. It’s not only an opportunity to set time aside just for book discussion, but also one of the most flexible forms of book community you’ll find. Read the same book, or different books. Host a focused conversation, or simply share what reads you’ve been enjoying lately. Whether you’re looking for intellectual stimulation, new friends, or a relaxed evening out with a cuppa or glass of wine, there’ll be a book club to suit your vibe (check with your local bookstore or library, or many authors’ websites for options): and if there’s not, why not start one?

Find your BookTok tribe

If an in-person book club isn’t for you, bookish community is just an upward swipe away. #BookTok really does contain multitudes, and it’s not just a place for posting book content: lurkers who quietly watch videos and enjoy recommendations are more than welcome, or you can dive into the comments and make some new friends. Whether romance, YA, Aotearoa lit, poetry, or fantasy is your jam, there’ll be a corner of BookTok where you belong.

Head to the library

Many of you will need no converting, but if you haven’t been to the library in a while, we’d heartily encourage you to check back in. The vibes are immaculate, and you can engage on your level: simply browsing the shelves alongside other keen users can really give your spirits a lift, or if it’s appropriate, you could start a conversation. And if it’s conversation you’re after, we’ve never met a librarian who didn’t want to talk books. The same goes for your local bookstore.

Engage with reviews

No need to be a Karen in the comments, or engage with any keyboard warriors - but respectful comment sections, or online forums such as Reddit or Discord, can be a great place to pick up fresh recommendations, or to delve deeper into the themes and construction of your favourite reads. Review culture helps our book industry thrive, and the more love and airtime we can give to our hardworking reviewers, the better.

Attend events

Gone are the days of local libraries and bookstores as silent spaces: these vibrant community hubs are usually abuzz with events. They host launches, talks, readings, discussion groups, workshops, and basically anything you can imagine: and so many of these events are free. Check out your local bookstore’s website for more details of what’s going on in your area, or sign up to publishers’ newsletters for info on online events.

Be intentional

How often are you bringing books into conversation? Why not ask someone what they’ve been reading, as well as recapping the latest season of your favourite reality show? Talking books is one of the most engaging and rewarding conversations you can have with your friends. There’s also a lot to be said for reading visibly in public - maybe on the bus, or while waiting for an appointment. You never know what might spark a conversation.