This short book, based on the Swedish experience, explores the concept and the operation of study circles. The book is organized in nine sections. The first section looks at the various definitions of study circles in history and the literature, arriving at a broad working concept of study circles. This is followed by an overview of the international connections of study circles. The next two sections set out, respectively, eight principles of study circles and four approaches that study circles can take. The next section examines the work process in study circles. It is followed by information on recruiting study circle members, conducting meetings, and planning. The final section outlines the role of the study circle leader. An appendix provides a study circle report form. (KC)