Fort Bend County Libraries Offers Online Reading Recommendations for Book Lovers
Fort Bend County Libraries (FBCL) is enhancing the way local residents discover new books and authors with a convenient online Reading Recommendations section on its website. Designed to replicate the browsing experience of the library’s physical shelves, this new service provides readers with several digital tools to uncover exciting titles and literary gems they might not have otherwise considered. Whether you’re looking for the next great book or staying on top of new releases, FBCL’s online tools aim to make it easier for library users to find the perfect read from the comfort of their home.
Located under the "Books, eLibrary, & More" tab on the FBCL website, the Reading Recommendations section features three key "readers’ advisory" resources: Author Alerts, NoveList Plus, and Wowbrary. Together, these tools help library users discover books that match their interests, while keeping them informed about the latest additions to the library's collection.
Author Alerts allows readers to sign up for notifications when new titles by their favorite authors are added to the FBCL catalog. The service can be customized to send alerts via email or text message, and users can select the format(s) they prefer, such as books, audiobooks, DVDs, and even streaming video. The notifications often include "pre-release" alerts, notifying readers of upcoming titles that will soon be available for checkout. Once a new item by a selected author is added to the collection, readers receive an instant notification with a direct link to place a hold on the book.
For those seeking personalized recommendations, NoveList Plus, an EBSCO database, allows users to find read-alikes based on their favorite books, authors, or series. The platform offers an array of fiction and nonfiction options, including books for all ages, and can be filtered by plot, writing style, and even reading level. NoveList Plus also includes reviews, discussion guides, and curated reading lists for popular genres, ensuring that every reader, from casual to avid, can find something tailored to their tastes.
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For those looking to stay up-to-date with the latest arrivals at the library, Wowbrary offers a free weekly email showcasing newly added books, audiobooks, DVDs, and more. The email includes an instant link to the online catalog, enabling users to request items for checkout and pickup directly from their nearest FBCL location. The weekly email highlights certain featured titles but also allows users to browse specific categories like children’s books, graphic novels, mysteries, business books, and more.
FBCL is also hosting several demonstrations of these online tools at multiple branch locations, where participants can learn how to make the most out of the Reading Recommendations resources. These events are free to attend, and registration is required for the following dates:
- University Branch Library (Sugar Land) – “Intro to NoveList”: Thursday, Dec. 5, 10:15-11:15 am
- Cinco Ranch Branch Library (Katy) – “Reading Recommendations Overview”: Thursday, Dec. 5, 2:00-3:00 pm
- Sienna Branch Library (Missouri City) – “Reading Recommendations Overview”: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2:00-3:00 pm
- Sugar Land Branch Library (Sugar Land) – “How to Find the Right Book for You”: Wednesday, Dec. 18, 10:30-11:30 am, and Thursday, Dec. 19, 6:30-7:30 pm
- Missouri City Branch Library (Missouri City) – “Reading Recommendations Overview”: Friday, Dec. 27, 2:00-3:00 pm
These events, along with the online resources, are designed to help library users maximize their reading experience and stay connected with the library's offerings, whether they prefer digital or physical books.
With these new tools, Fort Bend County Libraries are making it easier for residents to discover new books, keep up with their favorite authors, and explore a wide range of genres, all with just a few clicks from home. The service is free, and library users can access the Reading Recommendations section on the FBCL website anytime, making it an invaluable resource for book lovers of all ages.
For more information on the online Reading Recommendations tools and upcoming demonstrations, visit the Fort Bend County Libraries website at www.fortbend.lib.tx.us or call the Communications Office at 281-633-4734.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
