If you are a reader, a true lover of books, you probably spend a good portion of your spare time either creating future readings lists..or reading about other books. In years past, creating a list usually meant jotting it down in a notebook or journal. That was fun, but sort of tedious.

Techno-Savvy folks figured out ways to create their own databases..to keep track of what they read, liked or disliked. I created my own database at some point but was stricken with grief when my hard drive crashed and my “library” was no more. Oh, the horror!

Today, there are all sorts of websites to help keep track of what you are reading. My primary list is through Goodreads. I like it because you can create different lists and share them with friends. I try to keep it simple with only 3 main categories (Currently-Reading, Read, and To-Read). Of course.. my “to-read” list is quite long but it’s great because whenever I find myself looking for something to read.. I simply check out my list for ideas. It’s very satisfying to me to move it to the “read” category and you have the option of including a review.

I also like the functionality of Library Thing. It’s designed to resemble your bookshelf at home. It’s a tad more visual. I tend to use it for their widgets which appear on this blog. These online tools make it so easy to create lists, that I find myself constantly adding titles. The only down side is that I spend so much time researching my next read, that I end up limiting my actually reading time. I used to feel badly about this but it hit me the other day that I truly enjoy “the hunt”.

There is something mystical and exciting about looking for that “perfect” book. I love walking into a bookstore or library. I love the smell. Let it be known that I also love looking at all the book covers and I have been known to pick up a book based on its cover alone. I know. Call me shallow. These online resources don’t provide the smell or sounds but they sure do give you a sense of “browsing”.

I guess what I am saying, or admitting to, is that although every moment is not taken up with a book in one hand and a cold drink in the other.. the anticipation that leads up to it, is almost as good.

Ti