You need a small core of people to get a bookchain started in the library. For a first attempt 9 or 12 people is plenty – but less is OK too. You could actually run your first bookchain with a minimum of 3 people.
What's the best way to recruit readers to join a bookchain?
- Word of mouth – chat up your pet borrowers (don’t forget reading group members, if you have them) and get them to recruit a friend too.
- Put slips in books inviting people to join a bookchain.
- Design a poster for the readers’ noticeboard.
- Design some information leaflets – to hand/send out to keen borrowers or display in the library (by the counter, where staff can promote them or by the readers’ noticeboard).
- Use your mailing list – if you have a list of people who come to library events they might be interested in joining a bookchain. Send them some information and an invitation to take part in this exciting new venture.
- Hold an information session – morning, afternoon or evening, you decide on the best time depending on your target audience. Keep this fun – and light. Provide refreshments and play some reader-centred ice breakers. Focus on what people will get out of joining a bookchain rather than the nitty gritty of the organisation.
- Approach keen library colleagues – a short staff pilot project is often the best way to start a bookchain.