The purpose of this guide is to help study circle leaders design a study circle course and develop the reading material for the discussions. Benefits for the participants and the sponsoring organization are discussed. Three issues in planning the study circle program are addressed: goals, participants, and time frame. Key characteristics of successful study circles are described. Suggestions for dividing the issue into sessions follow. The three different types of material necessary for each session in a study circle are described: the introduction, discussion questions, and the text. These optional materials also are considered: group exercises and small group activities, suggested readings, special assignments, audiovisual material, and leader's guide. Discussion of sources of materials covers where to find and how to create the reading material. It looks at writing original material, selecting articles from periodicals, adapting existing study circle material, and using a book. The guide concludes with a section on reviewing and piloting the course. Appendixes include descriptions of five study circle courses and a list of resources available from the Study Circles Resource Center. (YLB)