Books & Networking - New Year 2026

Read business, personal development or non-fiction books?

Looking for ideas for books to read, or would like to recommend books to others?

Interested in connecting with, and getting to know, other local business owners?

Books & Networking are small, relaxed and informal networking events with a book theme - an opportunity to meet, share knowledge and discuss the books you are currently reading.

As with any other networking event, there will be an opportunity for general business discussions, networking and getting to know everyone.

While there are never any quick wins, previous attendees have gained business as a result of attending events, introductions, etc.

Everyone will have an opportunity to discuss which books they have read recently (or ask for book recommendations), share knowledge, and discuss goals and what they have learned from the books they are reading.

Don't worry if you are not currently reading a book - this could be an opportunity to ask for a book recommendation, or get ideas from what everyone else is reading.

No specific or set book - unlike a traditional book club (where everyone reads the same book) we discuss everyone's different book choices.

Previous meetings have included a range of book recommendations - from business books, personal development, motivational, inspirational, biographies, and practical how to books - even the occasional fiction book gets a mention!

Whether this is your first meeting, or you attend regularly - everyone is welcome! You don't have to be a member of the Facebook group to attend, there's no memberships or obligations (just book for the events you'd like to attend), and no awkward ice breakers.

Previous attendees have included self employed, people who work from home, business development managers, and company owners - everyone is welcome!

By the end of the meeting, you will have networked and met other business owners (and catch up with existing contacts), identified goals and knowledge, and discovered ideas for books to read to help your business.

Parking is included, and available at the venue. The venue is also a 10 minute walk from Union Square and the bus/train station.

Tickets are only £10, and this includes refreshments (e.g. coffee and biscuits) and parking.

SPACES ARE LIMITED and booking is essential - so book early to avoid disappointment.

This will be a round the table discussion/networking.

1. 15 to 20 minutes of general networking.

2. Brief round the room introductions – introduce yourself, your business, and the book you are currently reading.

3. Opportunity to discuss the books you are reading - including what you have learned, and goals you have set from reading the book.

4. Guest speaker.

5. General networking / discussions.

End of meeting - you are invited to join us for lunch after the meeting at 1pm (see below).

After the meeting at 1pm, there's the option to continue the meeting and discussions in the cafe downstairs over lunch - you are welcome to join us, whether you have lunch or just grab a coffee.

This is optional, with everyone buying their own lunch, coffees, etc.

You are also welcome to join us for lunch if you can't make it to the main meeting!

How can I contact the organizer with any questions?

You can contact Simon Pittman at [email protected]

What's the refund policy?

Tickets are non-refundable - however if you can no longer attend, you can send a substitute - either someone from your own business or a contact. Please let the event organiser know.

Do I have to bring my printed ticket to the event?

No - we'll have a list of names of people who are attending so you don't need to print your ticket.

Is parking available?

Yes, parking is available at no additional cost. An e-mail is sent to everyone attending the day before the meeting with details on parking, etc.

Will there be refreshments?

Tea and coffee will be available.

How many people usually attend?

Usually around 6 people - many prefer smaller groups, as plenty of opportunity to get to know each other, and discuss the books we are reading. A delegate list is sent the day before the event.

Is everyone reading/discussing the same book?

No specific book. Unlike a traditional book club (where everyone reads the same book), Books & Networking is about discussing what everyone is reading at the moment, and getting ideas from each other for books to read.

Will I need to bring anything to this event?

Only yourself! You don't need to bring the book you are reading at the moment (although you may find it helpful to have the book with you while talking about the book).

Can I just turn up without booking?

As spaces are limited, booking is essential!

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Host or Publisher Simon Pittman