So this month’s bookish belongings is all about apps. I don’t know about you, but I’d be lost without my phone and clouds. There are so many apps out there that help with reading and bookish things, so I thought I’d share what I use.
Reading
Hoopla– This is a service through your library, so it just depends on if your library does more with hoopla or overdrive as to which is better. My library has more movies and music through this app, but some reading options.
Nook– I’m consistently perusing the 2.99 and down rack on B&N. Plus I’ve got a TON of books I’ve gotten as free downloads through there. I typically don’t like to spend a lot of money on my e-books because if I like it I’ll want it as a paperback or hardback book, and if I don’t like it, it doesn’t matter to me if I own it at all. So this a a good way to try out new books without much commitment.
Kindle– This is where my netgally books go, plus there are some books that are available here that aren’t on B&N, mostly indi writers. But for the right price, I’ll give an indi book a try.
Aldiko– This is where I have classics organized. Things I get from Gutenberg that don’t’ have a copy write any more. You can import all your books into this app, and I’ve thought about it. Honestly, I think I need to look into the pro version of this more, it may help me organize my e-collection better than I currently am.
Personal Library
Libib– This is where I organize children’s books. Things that I usually peruse at the store or library without bringing them home. I love kids books, but since I don’t have kids right now, I don’t feel the need to start this collection. I do like keeping up on them since I work with kids, and have friends with kids. You never know when you need a good gift.
Goodreads– What bookish person doesn’t have Goodreads? It’s a great community for the bookish lover and it’s a great way to discover new books. I’m always on the recommendations section of the app. I also like updating my reading better on the app, it feels easier to me than the website.
Home Library– My sister turned me onto this app, and I’m obsessed. It let’s you catalog not just your books, but movies, music, video games, almost anything that you would want a list of in case of fire or theft. I’m about half way through my book and movie collection. The thing I really like about it, is you can go into your book section and roll the dice, and the app will bring up a random book for you if you’re having a hard time deciding. There is also a borrowing and lending section, but I haven’t quiet figured that out yet. And it syncs with a web based site so you can export lists or if your phone burns in the fire too, you sill have the list.
Where’s my book– I haven’t used this one, but my sister says she likes it for keeping track of books she lends her students (she’s an English teacher.) It’s not as pretty as the other two apps I’ve listed, but you may prefer it.
Listening
Audible– You have to subscribe to use audible, but if you are more of a book person than movie person it’s the same prices as a Netflix subscription. I’m not currently subscribing because I’m obsessed with overdrive, but I have been a member in the past and loved it.
Libravox– These are common domain books, which means depending on the book, it has to be between 70-120 years old. All the readers are also volunteers, so the quality is only as good as they are able to put out, however, I’ve found some readers that I enjoy listening too, and some that I can’t stand, but if you want to catch up on some classics this would be a great app to use.
Overdrive– If you’ve been following my reviews, you’ve probably seen almost all my audio books are from overdrive. Ever since I moved to Cincinnati, I’ve been obsessed with it. Overdrive is only as good as your library makes it, but it’s great because the books automatically return, so not late fees. You can also see how many people are ahead of you if you have a book on hold, which can be good or bad, but if you haven’t check this app out, you should.
Other
Booktrack– This is the most random thing I’ve found, but it was kind of fun. You can make a sound track to a book, or use a track that’s already been made. I started reading Snow White with a given track and it adds a new level to the reading. You can adjust the speed of the pointer so it’s easy to follow along. It’s kind of a quirky fun app, you should give it a try.