1624 The Cornell Reading-Courses 



READING-COURSE CLUBS 



The study of the reading-course lessons may be pursued to advantage 

 by groups of farmers and their families by means of informal organiza- 

 tions known as reading-course clubs. Where these clubs have been tried 

 an interest in improved agriculture has been aroused and social intercourse 

 increased. These organizations have also brought to light valuable local 

 experience and have stimulated individual thought and self-expression. 

 The Cornell Reading-Course Lessons are used in these clubs for the prep- 

 aration of programs. One person is generally asked to be responsible for 

 the success of each meeting, which is made possible by a careful study of 

 the lesson. Lessons are distributed to the various members of the club 

 so that they may be prepared to take part in the general discussion, which 

 occupies a part of each program. Music and social features add to the 

 enjoyment of the meetings. 



The meetings of reading-course clubs have usually been most successful 

 during the fall and winter, but the interest manifested in reading-course 

 lessons this year suggests that they may well be continued through the 

 summer. Meetings generally take place every two weeks during the fall 

 and winter; if it is not advisable to meet so often in the spring and sum- 

 mer, monthly meetings are suggested. These will keep the organization 

 in good condition for meetings every two weeks later in the year. The 

 College will cooperate with interested persons, in any locality, in the 

 formation of a reading-course club. 



In some communities organizations exist with which the College of 

 Agriculture will cooperate in conducting educational work by means of 

 the reading-courses. Granges, churches, schools, and agricultural organi- 

 zations are invited to make use of reading-course lessons and Cornell 

 University agricultural experiment station bulletins. The following three 

 ways are suggested in which these may prove valuable to a reading-course 

 club or other organization : 



1. For study by the entire membership previous to a general discussion 

 at a regular meeting. 



2. By speakers in preparing for a program at a regular meeting. 



3. For reference. A set of available lessons and bulletins may be 

 obtained for the library of any grange or recognized agricultural organi- 

 zation. 



