GoodReads As Readers' Advisory Tool

September 18, 2012

I've lost count of the number of times a library patron has asked if we keep a record of the things they've checked out. By the way, the answer to that question is "No." There are some great resources out there that make keeping track of what you read easier than ever though. One of those resources is GoodReads. The functions of the site will be familiar to users of social networking sites like Facebook. If you're new to social networking, relax! Don't be afraid to explore. Ask for help if you need it. We'd be glad to help you get started!

GoodReads lets you create "bookshelves." You can name them whatever you want. Virtual organization has never been simpler or more customizable. You can organize the books you've read by genre, theme, author, year of publication, or anything you want. You'll also be asked to mark each book you enter as "read," "currently reading," or "to read." You can also attach multiple labels called "tags" to each book you enter. Feel free to get as specific as you want.

What's really great about GoodReads are the reviews. Take a moment and offer your 2 cents on the books you enter. You might help someone decide whether or not to read a certain title. In this sense, you'll be doing what we do every day at the Library, providing reader's advisory. You can also take advantage of what others have written.

Finally, the Groups function on GoodReads is worth looking into. Reading might be a solitary act, but we still feel the desire to talk about what we read. Think about it: if this wasn't true, book clubs wouldn't be as popular as they are! There's a theory that suggests that no two people ever read the same book, that our life experiences and emotions color the text we read in a unique way. This is why it's always informative and fun to see what other people are saying! And on GoodReads, there are groups for every genre and author under the sun. You can also create a group of your own.

And if you're wondering, "Does MCPL have a group on GoodReads?", the answer is Yes! You can access it here. So what are you waiting for? Come join the conversation!

Amanda W.
North Independence Branch