If you have a question about Telephone Book Clubs, please look through our list of frequently asked questions. Here you will find answers to the questions we are most commonly asked about them.
For any other question, please email us at talkandsupport@rnib.org.uk or call us on 0845 330 3723 or 020 7391 2218.
Costs and joining
Do I have to be a RNIB Member to take part in a Telephone Book Club?
No, you don't have to be a RNIB Member to take part in a Telephone Book Club. RNIB Members enjoy book clubs as one of their benefits and take part for free. Find out more about joining RNIB and the full range of benefits.
What does it cost?
Telephone Book Clubs cost £12 for six sessions. There are no other costs as we call you.
How do I join a Telephone Book Club?
To join a group, please email us at talkandsupport@rnib.org.uk or call us on 0845 330 3723 or 020 7391 2218.
About the groups
When do the Telephone Book Clubs meet and for how long?
Each book club meets over the telephone for an hour, once a month for six months. Both weekday and a small number of evening groups are available.
How many people will be in the group?
Each group consists of eight people from across the UK and will be hosted by a trained volunteer.
About the books
I don't read print. Will the books be available in CD, tape or braille?
As a group you'll choose from a varied book list, all available on DAISY CD, braille, MP3, large print, and audio cassette (from Calibre library). When you sign up to join a Telephone Book Club, we will ask about your reading format and how you usually get your books. We use this information when we choose the book selection for your group to ensure that everyone in the group will be able to read the books.
How does the group choose the books?
Everyone in the book group will receive a book list of six titles before the group meets for the first time. The choice of books may include everything from modern fiction, biography, crime and the classics. In the book list you will receive a short synopsis of each book, the date of publication and points of interests, such as if the book has been nominated for a literary prize.
In the first group meeting, you will discuss the choice offered on the book list and vote for the books you would most like to read. The two books with the most votes will be read and discussed by the group.
How will I receive the books?
If you are a RNIB Talking Books customer, the two books chosen by the group will be sent out to you automatically and will not be counted as part of your usual allocation. If you are not a Talking Books customer, we will provide you with all of the information you need to request the books from your usual supplier.
I like books, although I'm not an expert. What sort of contribution will I be expected to make to group discussions?
All sorts of people with a range of experience and knowledge of books and authors take part in the book clubs. The one thing everyone has in common is that they love reading and want to share their interests and views with others. The variety of views and opinions expressed by the group about the books make for a lively discussion. Everyone's contribution is valued.
Find out about telebefriending
Frequently asked questions about Telebefriending