I will admit that I have been tempted to go fully to Librarything, especially ever since Amazon joined with Goodreads. Even though I adore the social aspects of Goodreads, there is something so unique about Library Thing and its a book source I use on a consistet basis. I really like Library Thing, because its great if you are looking to build more of a book database. Its more about functionality than in the looks department. Its not the most gorgeous looking site, but its a great source for information. Its also a great way to support libraries as well. Its all about connecting readers to its local libraries and the catalog like information you see.
To head over to Library Thing click HERE
So here are some important facts about Library Thing
The Work Page-which there is a work page for each title of a book. This is where you find the various publishings, illustrations, covers, different printed editions. You are able to update information on the book
Library Thing offers all sorts of features for creating a catalog of your books. The biggest downside to it is after 200 books its cost $10 a year or $25 for a whole lifetime. I paid this lifetime fee many years ago so I never think about it. I had no problem paying it because its really not that much and its a great way to support this site. It is worth it if you plan on using it so much since I think in many ways it holds more information than Goodreads does about books. Goodreads is more focused socially but Library Thing’s purpose is to build a book catalog of your own. There is a social sphere but its not anywhere near what Goodreads is capable of being.
What is most appealing about this site is how you can add any book to your database as long as its with the “library of congress”. If its not, which would happen with self published books, than you can add any book manually. It also uses Amazon and library systems to access information on books.
In your profile you can access your stats such as the numbers of books you have added, your reviews and number of friends, catalog sources for your books, and stats of information you have added into the “common knowledge”. Other features include
- Book Tag Clouds
- Authors
- Your Mass Reviews Pages
- Book Recommendations
- Friend Connections
- Groups
- Local Page -which helps you know about events around books and authors in your local communities
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