FAQs

What can I expect at a gathering?

​While we now gather at over a dozen venues on first Thursdays, readers can expect consistent features at any gathering:

• A cozy evening out: There is space reserved at a number of local spots for readers. Gatherings range in size, from a few readers to many based venue capacity and attendance.

• Dedicated time to read: We always have an hour of reading at our gatherings. How silent this hour is depends on the host venue and the vibe they are curating.

• Space to connect: There is optional time at the beginning & end of each gathering to chat (but never any pressure).

• Inspiration: You can see what others are reading & add to your to-be-read list.

• Hosts to welcome you: Members of our incredible volunteer host team will be there to welcome you and help you find a seat.

To get the most out of a gathering, we recommend that readers come with an intention for the night, whether simply to enjoy the magic of reading in public with others, to connect further with friends over a shared love of reading, or to meet new people. Please let your host know if you're hoping to meet people; hosts can help seat you with others whose intention is the same.

​Local book-loving folks volunteer time and resources to put these gatherings on. We are so grateful for everyone's love and support and for the many folks who have jumped in to support these gatherings in important ways. Among these, we are very grateful for our team, supporters, and host locations.

Who puts on these gatherings?

Do I have to be a member to participate?

Nope! There is no cover charge, RSVP, or membership necessary. We are an informal neighborhood gathering, and all are welcome!

How often are gatherings?

We gather monthly on the first Thursday of each month (taking a break for the summer months) in bars, cafés, and wine tasting rooms throughout the West Seattle and White Center neighborhoods.

Do you ever gather outside of first Thursday evenings?

We do! We’ve had a few special “field trip” gatherings this year at cultural institutions. In November 2023, we partnered with Librarian Jennie Diaz on a cozy Sunday morning gathering at Seattle Public Library’s historic West Seattle Branch. This past winter, we partnered with the Seattle Art Museum as part of the 2024 SAM Body + Mind program, designed to offer space for folks to restore and reconnect with themselves. We hosted Saturday morning gatherings for over 200 readers at the Olympic Sculpture Park pavilion the third Saturday of January, February, and March.

How can I support these gatherings?

As a host: Our hosts are the heartbeat of our community. They welcome readers, foster community at our gatherings, and support behind the scenes. If you're interested in joining the host team, you can let us know here. 

​

As a local business: We are so grateful for the incredible set of local businesses that curate cozy, quiet vibes for readers each month. If you're a business owner in West Seattle or White Center and would like to host the coziest gathering of the month in your space, you can reach out to our team at locations@westseattlebookclub.org to explore partnering with us.