What is in a Goodreads Group?

Goodreads Groups have many features you can take advantage of and we have recapped some of them for you here!

1. bookshelf:

The bookshelf is a great feature because you can add titles that your library holds making it easy for patrons to browse.  There is often so much detail the Goodreads community has added to books that your patrons will learn more about the book that just from your OPAC.   The bookshelf includes a snapshot on your group homepage so patrons can see the latest items added to your catalog.  Adding a book to the shelf is a simple process, and you can create different shelves such as "Popular Fiction" or "Literature."

2. currently reading

The currently reading option is great when your library wants to feature a book, for example, a new book could be featured here every month.  There is a discussion board attached to each currently reading item posted, and members can have a discussion about the book, and use it as an 'online group read.'  Even if no one in the group actively participates in the 'group read' it is still a great way to highlight your new acquisitions.

3. discussion board

The discussion board is made of topic folders.  We have created a Books! folder and all the discussion posts in this folder are about...books!  The Recommendations/Suggestion folder contains discussion posts about books patrons would like to see the library acquire or books they recommend to other patrons.  The discussion boards are always an active area of the group, and many new members comment here. 

4. events

The events board is a great promotional tool for any library related events that are happening.  When guest lecturers come to speak at the college or you have an author signing, you will want to promote the event to your patrons here! There is even a feature that links to Google Maps, so when you put the address of the event patrons can see exactly where to go.  If you email the event to members of your group they can respond saying Yes, No or Maybe if they plan to attend.

5. photos:

Use the photo page to promote the library.  We used it to promote our newly renovated lobby and reading room.  Upload images of your collection, photos taken from events at the library. Just be sure to have permission from those in the images.  

6. polls

Polls not only provide insight about what your members are looking for or like, but they really get people involved! Once you create a poll, send out an invitation to members to answer it.  You will be surprised at the response. Everyone likes to share their opinion!