Where Can I Get Funding for a Reading Club?

Running a reading club on a small budget

Starting a book club does not require much money. Most groups run perfectly well with little or no funding at all. The two main costs to consider are finding somewhere to meet and getting hold of books.

With a bit of planning, both can often be reduced to almost nothing.

Finding a free venue

Schools often allow reading clubs to use an empty classroom after hours or meet in the school library. This works particularly well for clubs aimed at pupils or parents connected to the school.

Public libraries are another option. Many welcome reading groups and will let you use a quiet area for discussions. Some libraries have dedicated meeting rooms that community groups can book at no charge.

Other possibilities include community centres, church halls, or simply rotating between members' homes. Online meetings or hybrid formats can also work well, removing venue concerns altogether. The best choice will depend on your group's size and preferences.

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Accessing books without buying them

Library membership is free in the UK, and this is often the most practical way to source books for a reading club. Some public libraries can order in multiple copies of the same title if you give them enough notice, though capacity varies between areas and depends on budget and collection policies. It is worth asking your local library what they can offer.

School libraries can provide similar help for clubs based in educational settings.

Library staff may also suggest suitable titles and help you find books that will spark good discussions. This can be useful if your group is looking for fresh ideas or wants to try different genres.

Some clubs combine library borrowing with occasional purchases, building up a small shared collection over time. Members might also lend books they already own.

Grants and funding for literacy projects

If you do want funding to buy books or cover other costs, there are organisations that support literacy work in the UK. Some local councils have small grants available for community projects, including reading groups, though availability and amounts vary significantly. Contact your council directly to ask what might be available in your area.

Other potential sources of funding include the National Literacy Trust, which runs programmes supporting reading for pleasure, local community foundations, and charitable trusts that focus on education or community development. Crowdfunding and community fundraising efforts can also help clubs raise money for books or events.

Eligibility and amounts vary, so check each organisation's criteria before applying. Formally constituted groups and registered charities may find more funding options available to them than informal clubs.

GOV.UK provides links to broader resources on funding for voluntary and community groups, which can point you toward relevant schemes.

Most reading clubs thrive on a shoestring budget. That said, clubs in areas with limited library capacity or fewer local grants may face more challenges. Funding is worth exploring if you have specific plans, but a lack of money need not stop you from getting started.