Creating a Book Club Scrapbook

Creating a Book Club Scrapbook – A Keepsake of Stories and Memories

Key Takeaways

  • A scrapbook helps your book club capture shared memories and discussions.
  • You can include book reviews, photos, favorite quotes, and meeting notes.
  • Scrapbooks can be paper-based or digital depending on your club's style.
  • Member participation makes the scrapbook feel personal and authentic.
  • Scrapbooking can become a year-end tradition or club ritual.
  • Use themed prompts, stickers, and bookish items to add personality.
  • Reflect on how your group grows through reading over time.
  • It's a low-cost, meaningful way to celebrate your reading journey.

Why Every Book Club Should Start a Scrapbook

A book club scrapbook is more than just a craft project. It’s a way to keep track of the books you’ve read, the conversations you’ve had, and the friendships you've built. Every page tells a story — not just about the book, but about the people reading it together.

Some clubs find that scrapbooking brings back forgotten memories. I remember a small club that used ticket stubs and coffee shop receipts to fill their first scrapbook. It felt casual and real — and that’s what made it work.

Read more: Guide to Starting a Book Club With Friends


What to Include in Your Book Club Scrapbook

What goes in your scrapbook is up to you, but here are some popular additions:

  • Group photos during meetings
  • Favorite quotes from the book
  • Star ratings or short reviews from members
  • Details like meeting dates, locations, and snacks
  • Small items like stickers, bookmarks, or themed decor

You don’t need to fill a page every week. A single memory from each meeting is enough to build something beautiful. 

Inspiration: 10 Bookish Quotes That Capture the Magic of Reading

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Paper vs Digital Scrapbooking – What Works Best for Your Club

Some clubs prefer the charm of a paper notebook. Others love the flexibility of a digital layout. Both have their benefits — it depends on what fits your group best.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Format Pros Tools to Use
Paper Tangible, crafty, nostalgic Scrapbooks, pens, glue, scissors
Digital Easy to update and share Canva, Notion, Google Slides

Online clubs often choose digital. In-person groups might enjoy crafting together.

Try Canva: https://www.canva.com


Monthly Themes and Prompts to Keep Things Interesting

To avoid repetition, try using monthly themes or prompts. They help make each scrapbook entry feel unique.

Here are a few simple ideas:

  • “This book reminded me of…”
  • “A snack we ate while reading this book”
  • “If this book were a movie…”
  • “Who in the club loved it most — and why?”

You can also create a seasonal layout like a summer reading corner or spooky fall spreads.

More fun ideas: Beyond the Book – Fun Activities to Make Your Book Club More Interactive


Incorporating Bookish Products and Memorabilia

You don’t need fancy tools — just a few meaningful details. Use bookmarks from local bookshops, print stickers of your current read, or paste a small sample of a themed tea bag.

Bookish Wardrobe’s Gift Ideas section has great add-ons that also look great on a scrapbook page. You can even make it a tradition to bring one “scrap-worthy” item to every meeting.


How to Make It a Group Project

Scrapbooking works best when it’s shared. Assign a “scrapbooker of the month” who handles the updates, or rotate roles like photographer, quote collector, or snack recorder.

Shared drives are useful too. Just make sure you name files clearly (e.g., 2025_April_TheNightCircus.jpg). This keeps things tidy and easy to revisit. 

Related post: How to Create a Personalized Book Gift Box


Scrapbooking as a Way to Reflect on Reading Growth

Scrapbooks show how much you’ve grown — not just as readers, but as a group. Use a “Then and Now” section to track which genres you've explored or how your tastes have changed.

Some pages might include emotional reactions, tough topics discussed, or books that split the group in opinion. These moments matter — and they’re worth remembering.

For deeper reads: Books That Help With Stress Relief and Relaxation


Turning Your Scrapbook Into a Club Tradition

Turn your scrapbook into something everyone looks forward to. You can create an annual printed version, a digital PDF archive, or even a small handmade set of mini-books.

Leave space for handwritten notes, signatures, or inside jokes from your members. This keeps the scrapbook from becoming too formal — and more like a diary shared among friends.


Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What should I use for a paper scrapbook?

Use an A4-sized notebook, washi tape, glue, and good pens. Keep it simple — you don’t need craft store supplies.

What’s a good digital option?

Canva, Notion, or Google Docs work well. Canva is best for visuals, Notion for text and structure.

How often should we update it?

Monthly works well. If that’s too much, try every 2–3 books or at the end of a season.

Can this work for solo readers too?

Yes. A personal reading scrapbook can help track thoughts, favorite quotes, and even mood changes.

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