This has been a fun and useful site. I do use it a lot, in the library, for researching books for reviews, suggestions, and tags. And, as we are looking at Library Thing as a "social networking" tool, I probably use Amazon.com more than anything. It has developed into a wonderful networking site. I actively participate in the review and comments sections for all the books. One of my favorite reads, A Thousand Splendid Suns, had an incredible comments thread going, last summer, on the book and political/social issues in Afghanistan. One gentleman, from Afghanistan, was quite articulate, knowledgeable, and sharing in describing certain sections of the book and what it was like to LIVE through those events. People from several countries, and opinions, were discussing the book and related issues. Wow, how can you beat that kind of review?We didn't really have time, in class, to explore the world of reading-related, read/write web sites such as Amazon. User-generated content is a key element of Amazon -- user discussion threads, comments, guest reviewers, and the ability for users to upload video reviews.
I may use Library Thing more, personally, when I have more time to devote to reading and actively cataloging my personal library. It is not something I will use exclusively though. Nothing beats spending some contemplative, exploratory time perusing the shelves in a great bookstore. Huh, time is an issue for that one, too. ...and money. It seems, that no matter what my budgetary constraints are going into a bookstore (physical or virtual), they are always obliterated when I leave with shiny, new literary treasures.
2 comments:
I like Amazon for reviews as well, but you can't catalog your personal books on that site. I did like Kim's link to guru library, so much more catalog capabilities.
I'll have to look into the Amazon site. Do you have to be a member to discuss? Where do you go within the site to read comments? I would love to hear personal connections such as the man from Afghanistan.
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