Start a Book Club Blog

By: Angelique Caffrey - Updated: 11 Apr 2020 | *Discuss

 

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Blogging is all the rage, and if you're looking to either start a virtual book club or you already are a part of one (online or in-the-flesh), you can absolutely supplement it by setting up a members-generated blog.

Fortunately, blogs are inexpensive; in fact, most of the popular blogging services offer free-of-charge hosting to bloggers. So starting a blog will take very little time, though you should know the answers to the following questions before setting yours up in cyberspace:

What name do you want to give your club's blog?

If you are starting a book club blog solo, you can make up any moniker you'd like, from straightforward to downright wacky. But if you're already part of an established book club, it's critical to make sure you all vote on a name at the beginning of this process.

What is the purpose of the blog?

Many book club-type blogs on the World Wide Web have very specific purposes. Some are to review only new books and up-and-coming authors. Other blogs are devoted to talking about any and all books, from ancient texts to the most modern rap song lyrics. Still more blogs talk about a specific book each week.

Who will have the ability to post on the blog?

Because the blog is attached to a book club (i.e., a number of people), you are likely going to want to have more than one person gain entry to the inner workings of the blog so everyone can post at leisure. However, it is possible for a single individual to maintain control of this process by requesting that all information be sent to him/her. Again, there are pros and cons to each method of posting, so think it over before making a final decision.

How many posts will your book club blog have per week?

If you want to drive traffic to your book club blog from people across the globe, you'll need to maintain a steady pace in terms of posts. For instance, if you're only posting once every blue moon, you'll be unlikely to attract people to your blog. Therefore, it may be prudent to assign days of the week to book club members (if they'll all be posting and it isn't just you) to maintain a steady flow of information on your site.

Will you allow comments on your blog?

Most blogs allow visitors to post comments if they are so moved. However, this isn't a cut-and-dry proposition, as some blogs simply are not meant to engage guests in discussion. And remember that commenters are not always positive, so proceed with caution if you're someone who is ultra-sensitive and would be crushed by hearing something sarcastic or pessimistic on your book club blog.

Will you try to garner revenue from your book club blog?

There are many services that allow you to have ads on your blog, meaning that you could earn a small amount of money just by having a presence in cyberspace. But make sure that if you choose to allow advertisements on your space that you know in advance how you'll use the profits! Otherwise, book club members could become concerned that you're simply pocketing the cash while they are doing some of the work.

Good luck and have a great time exploring this wonderful way of getting the word out about both your club and the books you explore!

Next Page

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