t least twice a year, I reaffirm my resolution to spend more time reading. I also promise to exercise more regularly and eat healthier foods. Sound familiar?

Two years ago I did something that helped me reach one of my goals -- spend more time reading. I began, as always, by making a list of books that I wanted to read. However, this time I took it to the next step. From my list of "must reads", I picked those that I thought would interest my colleagues in UW-Extension. I sent them the list and offered to host a monthly conference call to discuss the books. Twenty people enrolled. The Blue Stocking Club (the first Reading Room) was born.

I found that, like buying an expensive piece of exercise equipment, promising twenty of your colleagues anything is a great motivator. I kept this resolution. We read nine books that first year. I also learned two important things about book discussion groups.

First, nine books was a lot of reading. Few could fit all nine books into their busy schedules. And, not every monthly selection was on everyone's "must read" list. Secondly, no matter when and how far in advance I scheduled our conference calls, we seldom could muster all of the participants.

The Reading Room should alleviate those problems. Each month, we'll add at least one new selection. You can join as many or as few of the discussions as you choose. Each discussion will continue for two months. Most books will be repeated. So, if life catches up to you, simply join the next discussion group.

Conference calls solved the problem of getting everyone together in one place. The Web solves our second problem -- when to get together. You'll be able to visit our site, read other's comments and add your own remarks whenever you want.

Going virtual also provides a very significant benefit. The Wisconsin Idea proclaims that the "Boundaries of the University are the Boundaries of the State." The Web enables us to open membership to you wherever you might live or work and whenever you can join us.

Each discussion group will be hosted. I'll pick people with a strong interest and some expertise in the subject. I recognize that picking the right host is as important as picking the right books. Hosts will pose questions for discussion and monitor the conversation. I'll be inviting the authors to join the discussions. In addition, you'll be able to easily add questions or topics to the discussion.

I know, I've tried other online discussion groups. Too often, simply getting online to join the discussion is a major challenge. Finally you are "in" and either no one is home or someone is sharing chapters from their dissertation. We've worked hard to make this site user friendly and inviting. You can help by sharing your suggestions for making this a better place and letting me know if you have any problems.

Welcome to Reading Room. -- B.P.