The group meets at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Ringhaver Student Center, offering a welcoming space where any student can drop in. With an average attendance of 20-30 students each week, members can expect a friendly and familiar environment. Read the Room has become a hub for learning, creativity, and conversation, providing students with a space to enjoy literature and community beyond their academic work.
Each month, the club selects a common read, creating a space for thoughtful discussion around contemporary literature. November's pick was ‘Bomb Island’ by Stephen Hundley, a coming-of-age novel about a teen navigating the challenges of growing up, family dynamics, and a budding romance while living on an island beside an unexploded bomb and a wild tiger that threatens the safety of his family. Hundley, who is currently the Author in Residence at Flagler College, will attend an upcoming Read the Room meeting to discuss his novel and answer student questions, offering a unique opportunity to engage directly with the author.
But, Read the Room goes beyond the books – there truly is something for everyone. Recent meetings have included a ‘Tote-bag Painting Night’ and a ‘Vision Board Night’, which provided hands-on, creative experiences for students. The club also collaborates with other campus organizations to broaden its programming. A joint meeting with the Pride Alliance explored queer media and the rise of book bans, while a partnership with the Creative Writing Club invited students to participate in “Frantic FanFic”, a collaborative storytelling activity where participants take turns adding to a shared fan fiction story. These collaborations allow students to try their hand at new activities and potentially learn something new.
When asked to describe Read the Room, Clayton emphasized its close-knit, welcoming community. She has been part of the club since her freshman year, and now, as a senior, she reflects fondly on the friendships and connections she has made through the group.
“We will give you friends!” Clayton said. She hopes the club will continue to thrive after she graduates and remain a welcoming and educational gathering space where students can read and relax.
Read the Room is always open to new members – so come and get involved! Whether you’re looking for people to discuss your favorite works with, a place to learn more about literature, or you’re interested in meeting authors in residence, this student-led book club is the place for you.
All ideas are welcome, and all you need to bring is yourself. Each meeting brings fresh ideas and new opportunities, so be sure not to miss out!
Learn more and contact club president Sarah Clayton on SaintsConnect .
