What is a virtual bookshelf?
A virtual bookshelf is the online alternative to the traditional bookshelves where publishers display their catalogues, based on categories, allowing their readers to browse through and find books of choice. It functions similar to the traditional bookshelf – the only difference being that it is in a virtual space and the books are in a digital format. These bookshelves have flexible search features, allowing readers to search through the online shelf by typing in the topic, title, author, ISBN or even description of a book. Besides, they can also be AI-driven, recommending titles based on browsing preferences.
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Virtual bookshelves provide both content creators and publishers the option to store all their content in one convenient location, allowing them to unlock benefits for both themselves and their readers. Here in this article, we will discuss how publishers can benefit from a virtual bookshelf and also pass on the benefits to their readers.
4 Benefits of a Virtual Bookshelf for Digital Publishers
Organize content: You can organize the content based on the topic, title, author, ISBN, publication date, or target audience. This simplifies the search process for the readers, allowing them to quickly find what they are looking for. In an online bookshelf, readers can view additional titles that meet the search criteria, thereby expanding their options and translating into more sales for the publishers.
Added privacy: At a time when information can easily be stolen or misused in the online world, a virtual bookshelf offers a greater level of privacy. You can use the virtual bookshelf as a repository for all your content without fear of theft or misuse of information. You can restrict access and make some shelves private or even encrypt them with passwords to prevent any unauthorized access.
Free online hosting: Some virtual bookshelves also offer free online hosting to publishers, which is a lifesaver for those without a website of their own. Instead of selling large PDF versions of the books to the readers, you can simply upload the files and select a virtual bookshelf. In doing so, you will be provided with a link either for individual books or for the entire bookshelf. You can then share the link with the readers who simply have to click on it to access a virtual library of books.
Gain greater reader insights: Access data analytics with a virtual bookshelf. You can gain access to data and reports showing which categories, titles, pages and resources are getting the greatest views. Insights such as these will help you make data-driven decisions for marketing and promotion.
Once you display your collection of books on the virtual bookshelf, the next step is to make it accessible to your audience.
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Empower your readers with a virtual bookshelf
A virtual bookshelf not only helps you increase your audience reach but also empowers them with a complete range of features that enable them to search for books of their choice and make a purchase. Here is how you can create a greater bond with your readers.
Provide access to a complete library of resources: As education goes online, a virtual bookshelf is the perfect platform for your readers to access digital books. With a neatly arranged virtual bookshelf, students can find the books and other resources they need to support their home work, projects, or simply fulfil their reading needs.
Access to neatly arranged books: Virtual bookshelf is a wonderful way for their readers to find the books they want. You can arrange books under various categories, for instance, titles, subject, age groups in case of fiction, ISBN, book description and more. When readers click on a link, they can see a preview of the content to see if it meets their interest. Data and AI-driven virtual bookshelves can also recommend similar titles based on readers’ browsing history.
Simplified search: A virtual bookshelf provides multiple ways to browse through pages and sections including a linked table of contents. This makes it easy for readers to navigate to the topic of interest.
Anytime and anywhere access: A virtual bookshelf is a digital version of the physical library. It is a great means to provide your readers with anytime and anywhere access to books. Disruptions in the Internet are a constant occurrence. However, a virtual bookshelf allows your readers to download and read books offline whenever convenient.
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In conclusion
With a virtual bookshelf, as a publisher, you can provide your readers 24X7 access to your books. Your sales are not restricted to the traditional brick-and-mortar library with limited access. Readers can spend more time browsing for their favorite titles from the comfort of their own space. A cloud-hosted virtual bookshelf is all the more convenient, allowing readers to browse and purchase titles from a central repository. Some virtual bookshelves are powered by AI and data analytics and recommend titles based on readers’ search history, benefitting both the readers and the publishers. As a publisher, you can embed the virtual bookshelf on your website and even in your blogs for greater audience reach. In case you don’t have a website, you can enjoy free online hosting with your service provider.
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