In collaboration with PBC Guru, Monash University is launching a virtual book club for alumni, covering a myriad of topics. This club will connect through a private forum where all participants can discuss the current book and connect with each other, regardless of where you're located in the world. Joining is completely free; you just have to get a copy of the book. The book club will read one book every two months, and is designed to fit your schedule and lifestyle.

1. Embrace lifelong learning: The insights you'll discover at the facilitated book club will help sharpen your professional, leadership, and communication skills.
2. Read more to live better: Reading can reduce stress, help you sleep better, and improve your relationships ¹. Did we mention it also makes you smarter? Reading increases your verbal intelligence, your emotional intelligence, and your creativity ².
3. Connect with alumni across the globe: The book club will introduce you to fellow alumni across industries, generations and geographies, alongside whom you can gain different perspectives while reading through each book. The network you'll be building may help you with career advice, introduce you to new people, and lead to your next opportunity.

How often will books be read, what is the time commitment, and what are the expectations?

One book will be read every two months. The books selected will explore topics of lifelong learning, personal growth, novels and others, and will take an average of nine hours to read cover to cover. The average time commitment is expected to be 1 to 2 hours per week.

Will there be any in-person meetings of the book club?

The book club will be entirely online. You can participate anywhere with internet access, on days and times that are convenient to you.

Is there any cost to participate?

Participation is free for alumni.

How do I get the books?

Participants will be responsible for sourcing their own copy of the book. This could be from a local library, online bookstore, physical bookshop, as an electronic book, or however you prefer to get your books. All books selected will be widely available for purchase.

How do book club discussions work?

The book club will have a moderator who manages the forum. The moderator will pose questions to the book club, share relevant articles, and facilitate conversations about topics explored in the book. Members will be encouraged to post and share as well. This format allows for ongoing conversation and makes it easy for readers to connect with each other through the forum.

How do I make a forum profile?

A private forum will be used to host the virtual book club, so that it's easy to connect with fellow alumni. During the sign-up process, you will enter specific information to generate your profile. Once you’ve signed up, you’ll receive a link to the forum.

What exactly is PBC Guru and what do they have to do with the book club?

Professional Book Club (PBC) Guru is a book club management company that works with businesses, alumni associations and professional societies. Monash has partnered with PBC Guru to put this program in place for alumni. Visit their website to find out more.

I've already signed up. How do I log in?

If you're already a member, click here to log in.

What if my question isn't answered?

Please send an email to info@pbc.guru and you’ll receive a response as soon as possible.