Extra Thing C: Tools for Readers

Librarything.com



What an interesting website! When I read the introductory information on this site, I wasn't too sure about it. Why would I need to catalog the books in my home library? I certainly don't have that many books. I tend to borrow books from friends, family, and the public library. I have even started borrowing books from students so that I can read the Twilight series! So a catalog isn't something I would necessarily pursue.



But then I read about the social networking aspect of the site. I could find readers who have similar book lists. I can read their reviews/feedback to get ideas for my next great read. As cool as that sounds, I usually get my book suggestions from friends and family.



So...how can I use this site? The "local" tab is AWESOME! I entered in my zip code and searched a 25 mile radius of my home. In one column, venues were listed. They ranged from public libraries, to UM libraries, to unique speciality book spots like "Once Upon a Crime". There is a second column that lists upcoming events. In this list I discovered Common Good Books. That store has a TON of readings and other events. It is a book store in St Paul owned by Garrison Keiler. Definitely something that I want to check out because it seems to specialize in local authors. VERY COOL! commongoodbooks.com