About us

Books & Us is a vibrant book club based in Melbourne for those who love to dive deep into thought-provoking literature and engage in stimulating discussions. We are a diverse group of passionate readers who come together to share our insights and opinions on a wide range of books. Whether you're a long-time bookworm or just starting to explore the world of literature, Books & Us welcomes you to join our friendly and welcoming community. Let's explore new perspectives, delve into intriguing plots, and connect over our shared love for all things literary. Come and join us for lively debates and enriching conversations!

Book Club Policies & Procedures
Purpose:
To provide a safe, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all members, ensuring equitable access, respectful interaction, and clear guidelines for participation.
1. Access & Participation
The book club is open to all members, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or background.
Meetings will be accessible wherever possible (e.g., wheelchair access, virtual options, large-print materials if requested).
Members are encouraged to notify the organiser in advance if they require accommodations.
2. Equality & Inclusion
Every member has an equal right to contribute to discussions.
No member should be excluded or treated unfairly based on identity, opinion, or experience.
Diverse perspectives are valued and welcomed; constructive discussion is encouraged.
Guidelines for respectful discussion:
Listen without interrupting.
Avoid personal attacks or belittling comments.
Focus on ideas, not individuals.
Agree to disagree respectfully.
3. Harassment & Safety
Harassment of any kind is not tolerated, including:
Verbal abuse, threats, or intimidation
Offensive jokes or comments
Unwanted physical contact
Repeated unwelcome communication outside meetings
3A. Privacy & Personal Boundaries
Members must respect each other’s personal boundaries at all times.
Excessive or unwelcome private messages (DMs, emails, texts, social media) to any member are considered harassment.
No member should attempt to isolate, pressure, or repeatedly contact another member outside official group communications.
Procedure for reporting harassment or boundary violations:
Notify the organiser or a designated officer immediately.
The club leadership will investigate confidentially.
Possible consequences may include: warning, restricted access, temporary suspension, or removal from the club.
Safety Note:
Members may request restricted contact, and the organiser will enforce protections to maintain comfort and safety in the group.
4. Meeting Conduct
Arrive on time and prepared, respecting others’ time.
Avoid dominating conversations; allow everyone a chance to speak.
Keep phones silent and minimize distractions.
Respect the meeting space and materials.
5. Digital & Online Spaces
Online discussions (email, social media groups, chat platforms) follow the same rules of conduct.
Do not post harassing, discriminatory, or offensive content.
Members should report any inappropriate behaviour to the organiser.
6. Consequences for Policy Breach
Minor breaches: private discussion and reminder of guidelines.
Repeated or severe breaches: formal warning and potential suspension.
Serious breaches (harassment, threats, unwanted messaging): immediate removal from the club and, if necessary, notification to relevant authorities.
7. Review & Updates
Policies will be reviewed annually or as needed to reflect best practices.
Members will be notified of any changes in advance.
Member Agreement
By joining/being part of the book club, I agree to the following:
1. Access & Inclusion
I understand the club is open to everyone, regardless of background.
I will respect all members’ contributions and perspectives.
2. Respectful Participation
I will listen, share, and engage respectfully during discussions.
I will focus on ideas, not individuals, and allow others to speak.
I will avoid language or behaviour that could be considered offensive, discriminatory, or harassing.
3. Harassment & Privacy
I will not harass, intimidate, or threaten any member, in-person or online.
I will respect all members’ personal boundaries and will not send repeated or unwelcome private messages.
I understand that fixating on another member or attempting to pressure them outside group meetings is not tolerated.
I understand that violating this clause may result in warning, suspension, or removal from the club.
4. Meeting Conduct
I will arrive on time and participate thoughtfully.
I will respect the meeting space and materials.
I will follow the same rules online as in meetings.
5. Acknowledgement
All current and new members agree to follow these guidelines and contribute to a safe and welcoming environment for all members.