This guide contains ideas and documents from study circle programs throughout the United States. The guide is organized in five parts that cover the following topics: (1) introduction--what are study circles, how do they function?; (2) basic steps in creating a community-wide program; (3) sample documents including program description, community survey, letter to potential sponsors, press release, tips for recruiting discussion leaders, and evaluation forms; (4) stories of community-wide study circles--Lima, Ohio; Yarmouth, Maine; Los Angeles, California; and (5) appendixes, include a comparison of dialogue and debate; a discussion of the need of positive conflict for democracy; study circles and action; why the interest in study circles; newspaper coverage; and community resources order form. Contains 16 references on collaborative community building. (KC)