JFT Book Club (Hybrid)–With Silent Reading Time–Your Favourite Books

Before our physical library concludes operations in conjunction with our office relocation, join us for a special book club celebrating our library collection, the memories it has inspired, and the community that have grown around it. Whether you’re a long-time library patron or a first-time visitor, everyone is welcome! No assigned reading or prior knowledge is required. You can attend in person at the library or join online from anywhere in the world.

On the day of the event, we invite you to bring a favourite book from our physical or digital collection (in English, Japanese, or French) and briefly share why it is meaningful to you or a memory associated with it. Then, enjoy a relaxing hour of silent reading together; you can either revisit your own pick or read a book recommended by another participant. We’ll wrap up with an informal discussion in English, where you’re welcome to share your thoughts on what you read, or simply listen to fellow participants. This is a friendly, low-pressure space where curiosity is encouraged, different viewpoints are celebrated, and every level of participation is valued.

As one of the last opportunities to gather in our current physical library before its relocation, we hope this special session helps you cultivate meaningful connections with readers from diverse backgrounds through books and (re-)discover Japanese literature, manga, nonfiction, and culture through fresh perspectives.

This book club is part of our special event series, celebrating our community, expressing our sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported us, reflecting on our history together, and sharing our vision for the future as we embark on this new chapter. Participants are warmly encouraged to explore our full program and make the most of this opportunity to enjoy our current public spaces and programming together!

*Please be aware that space may be limited.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us in person, by phone, email, or via our contact form.

P.S. The final day to borrow physical materials from our library will be Saturday, August 22, and all borrowed items must be returned by Friday, October 9. JF Canada Digital Library will remain available during and after the relocation.

Many of us simply want more time to read but cannot squeeze the time in, as we have too many distractions and interruptions in our daily lives to concentrate on reading. JFT Book Club with Silent Reading Time offers a sanctuary to indulge in the simple pleasure of reading, surrounded by fellow book enthusiasts who share your love for literature.

In addition, we provide an optional space for those who wish to connect and discuss their reading experiences with others. Engage in conversations at your comfort level and learn new perspectives from other book lovers from different cultural backgrounds that you wouldn’t gain from reading alone! It’s a safe space where your thoughts and impressions are valued, regardless of whether you choose to actively participate or quietly absorb the conversations around you.

We welcome both seasoned book club members and first-time participants to discover the joy of silent reading without the pressures of finishing an assigned book on time and/or participating in mandatory discussions.

1. Once you register for the event, find a book to share based on the criteria listed in WHAT BOOK TO BRING? (see below) or from JFT Library’s collection.
2. On the day of the event, we will meet via Zoom and in person at the Japan Foundation Toronto Library (2 Bloor St E #300, Toronto, ON M4W 1A8 Canada). *Click here to check how to get to our Library.
3. We will start with a quick introduction & ice-breaking activity (*Light refreshments will be served for in-person participants)
4. Participants will share their books and why they pick them up (2-3 minutes each)
5. Silent Reading Time: Participants will read the book they select anywhere in the library (or wherever they want if participating virtually).
6. Optional Discussion Time: We will share thoughts and learning from the book, favourite quotes from your chosen book, suggestions for next reads, etc.

*There is no right or wrong answer. Different perspectives make the discussion more fun and vibrant!

A book to bring can be either a physical book, ebook, or audiobook (excluding DVDs & Blu-rays) that meets the following criteria:

• Theme: Your Favourite Book from JFT Library’s physical or digital collection
  i.e., Japan-related fiction, nonfiction, or manga about Japan
  OR fiction, nonfiction, or manga by Japanese author(s)
• Language: a book can be written in any language (i.e. English, Japanese, French). *The book club meeting will be held in English.
• For those who cannot visit our library in person, check out !

*You can either borrow a book from the JFT Library’s collection, or bring your own copy from home.

*You can check whether the book is part of our collection by searching on our online catalogue (*to search physical & digital items) or JF Canada/USA Digital Library (*to search and read ebooks & audiobooks). Please contact us if you wish to confirm the availability with us.

To get a new JFT library card or to renew your existing card, please follow the instructions found here.