Book Clubs

Perkins Library and Outreach Partner on Elder Book Club

Strategies for Life: Living Well with Vision Loss
By Mary Beth Caruso, Certified Vision Rehabilitation Therapist
Perkins Outreach Services for Ages 55 and Older
Outreach@Perkins.org, 617-972-7434

The Harvard School of Public Health published a study in 2008 that links a slower rate of memory decline among older individuals who have an active social life. This information, in conjunction with previous studies that indicate stimulation of the mind is critical, supports the value of book clubs for older individuals. For the past decade or so many adults in the community have, and still do, join book clubs. Do you have an inclusive book club in your community, accessible for adults who have vision loss? If not, contact the Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library and start one!

The Perkins ELC (Elder Learning Center) offers adult education classes for individuals, ages 55 and older who are blind or visually impaired. Since 2000, a book club has been offered using braille books, large print books and tapes provided free from the Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library (BTBL), the local NLS cooperating library. The group has come together to discuss novels, short stories, poetry and has also met several times to view a Described Video (DVS) based on a book recently read and discussed. These videos, also loaned from the BTBL, were then compared with the book. Field trips have been organized to supplement the reading- an example is the group read Massachusetts by Nancy Zaroulis and then visited historical sites referenced in the book. Some students have cooked recipes according to what the book theme has been. There is no end to the creative spin offs from a book club.

A partnership between the BTBL and the Outreach ELC, a book club is held approximately every 2 to 3 weeks, allowing members time to complete the reading on their own. The makeup of the group changes due to personal interest, health, time of year, etc.; however a few members have been involved from the start 9 years ago. Book clubs can open up a whole new world for the reader. At each book club session there is a lively discussion; people can have strong opinions about a book and its subject matter. Pat Ahern, BTBL Reader Advisor, said "when a group of people come together over the same book, wonders happen. We become acquainted with new people, places, and ideas, and we learn about ourselves and one another by sharing our own thoughts, experiences and stories. We laugh about things we never thought we could laugh about and go to places we never thought we'd go."

Book clubs, reading groups or whatever name they go by, are happening at public libraries, book stores, senior centers and many other community centers. Any one can participate as long as they have read the book- it does not matter if the format is print, large print, tape or CD. The local NLS cooperating library can help members access materials to start a group or to participate in an existing one. Book clubs are rewarding for everyone involved and help keep minds healthy and active. Join one and experience the wonder!

Click here to read more about an accessible book club in Amherst, MA.