What is READS-to-Go
READS-to-Go is a program of the Reference and Adult Services (READS) section of New Hampshire Library Association. It selects and manages book kits to assist book discussion groups throughout the state, both community and library sponsored.
What is in a kit?
A kit consists of a sturdy canvas bag, 15 paperback copies of the title (one of which may be a large print version, in paper or hardcover, depending upon availability), discussion questions, a sign-out sheet, and a discussion group flyer.
Who can sponsor a kit?
A NH library that participates in the New Hampshire Interlibrary Loan Program, and has a van stop, may choose to sponsor a kit. We also welcome sponsorship from book discussion groups and civic organizations, but, a NH public library must be willing to act at the intermediary between the group and the READS-to-Go Committee.
Does the sponsor get to pick a title?
Kit titles are offered by the READS-to-Go Committee. A sponsor may decline a title that has been offered. A title may be requested, but then it must be reviewed by the committee. The committee may choose to decline a title. All titles are vetted by the committee before assignment.
What are the criteria for a title to be added to program?
Additions must be current and available in paperback (the large print copy may be in hardcover). The book should present opportunities for discussion. Any candidate for addition to the list will be reviewed by the READS-to-Go Committee before being added.
How long can a kit be checked out?
The standard length of time a kit may be checked out is eight weeks.
How can book clubs borrow a Reads-to-Go kit?
Kits are reserved through NH KitKeeper and circulated through the Interlibrary Loan system. Book club representatives are welcome to browse through titles and kit schedules on the NH KitKeeper website, but should contact their local public library in order to reserve a kit. A library card is required to check out kits.
How can libraries reserve a kit?
If you would like to reserve a kit, please check our NH KitKeeper online booking system.
What if all the books in a kit are not returned?
All kits must be returned to the host library by the due date. If missing items are not returned within two weeks of the due date, the host library will bill the borrowing library for the missing items.
What if a copy of a book is lost or damaged?
If a book is lost or damaged, contact the host library to discuss replacement options. In all cases of lost or missing items, the borrowing library assumes the cost of replacements. (Patron responsibility is left to the discretion of the borrowing library.)
My library no longer wants to be a host, can we ‘weed’ our kit?
The kit is bought by the host library on behalf of READS. If your library no longer wishes to host the kit, then it should be offered back to the READS-to-Go Committee, who may chose to reassign the kit. If the committee no longer wants to maintain the title, then the books may be ‘weeded’ and the bag and other materials sent to the READS-to-Go Committee Chair.
The kit my library hosts is old and doesn’t circulate much, can we switch it for a new title?
The READS-to-Go Committee will reassess kit titles at the request of a host library. Otherwise, the lowest circulating kits will be reviewed at the end of the year. Alternate titles may be offered to those libraries hosting one of the lowest circulating kits.