Reader in Residence

Did you know that 2008 is National Year of Reading in the UK? In order to get a little bit of reading and culture into the workplace, the business has employed a new Reader in Residence.

With its ethos ‘continuing to evolve’, our organisation is one which is familiar with – and indeed, embraces – change. In endeavouring to evolve once more, Bibby Line Group has become the first business in the UK to employ a Reader in Residence. Ella Jolly is employed by The Reader Organisation, a charity which ‘promotes the good in literature, with the belief that reading can be serious and fun, life-enhancing and creative for everyone’ and began working with Bibby Line Group in June 2008.

Over the next twelve months, Ella will travel to various UK sites to promote reading in the workplace. This initially involves setting up lunchtime and afternoon reading groups which will be available to all interested members of staff. These groups are based on the nationally acclaimed Get Into Reading model.

Unlike conventional book groups, there will be no long novels to read in advance. Instead, each week a different poem, short story or novel extract will be read. You will sit and listen while Ella reads. Then discuss. You take from the experience whatever you want, and no-one is required to contribute ahead of their confidence. Join in, respond or remain silent – whatever suits.

The groups are unique in several ways:

• They are for everyone – non-readers and keen readers alike.
• Everything is read aloud.
• Groups are small so the experience is relaxing, friendly and enjoyable.
• And there’s always plenty of coffee and cake for you!

The Reader in Residence project will also include initiatives such as office book shares, weekly poems and monthly novel recommendations (which will feature on this website). Ultimately, the project will culminate in Bibby Line Groups own internal literary festival. Essentially, Ella is striving to encourage a culture of reading at work, in the hope that this will make work a better place to be.

As an employee, you are invited to try one of the Get Into Reading groups – at the end of the month, you will not just be taking home your pay cheque but a unique experience too! If you would like more information about the project, or simply want to chat about books – please contact Ella on ella.jolly@bibbylinegroup.co.uk.