When Whitney Richardsons library closed due to the pandemic, she was at a loss.
She missed her supply of free books and book recommendations.
I looked at my husband and said, What do I read now?
said Richardson, a speech therapist from Evansville, Ill. My librarian and I have a good relationship.
She usually suggested books for me.
She started searching online for book recommendations, and thats how she discovered the bookstagram community.
It also gets them free books.
Richardson was inspired, so she started her own Instagram account (@whitfulreads).
Two months later, shes already received more than 30 books from publishers.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
The mother of two and mental health counselor started her bookstagram because she wanted a creative outlet.
Her Instagram account (@popreads) now has more than 5,000 followers.
I started bookstagram during a time in my life when I desperately needed a creative outlet, she said.
We asked Richardson and Putnam to share their best tips and advice for aspiring bookstagrammers.
Heres what they told us.
That also helped her grow her audience.
I posted my reviews and was really honest and raw about them, Richardson said.
I said, Absolutely, send it my way.
I always want to learn about new authors out there.
Putnam also mentioned bookstagram tour groups as a way to get free books while also supporting authors and publishers.
Bookstagram tours are arranged by publishers and authors, who send free advance copies of books to bookstagrammers.
In return, the bookstagrammers are expected to post about the book on agreed-upon days.
The end goal is to generate as much excitement and interest in the book as possible.
And always check that to tag the authors and publishers in your posts.
I usually venture to tag authors and publishers in my posts to make connections, she said.
I also receive direct messages and e-mails from publishers and authors about reviewing or promoting their books.
it’s possible for you to also follow authors on Instagram and reach out directly to them.
These tips can help:
Remember: Your goal is to make your followers picture themselves reading that book.
I wouldnt say that I make myself read genres that I dont like, she said.
Bookstagram is a hobby for me so it has to be fun and enjoyable.
Regardless of your genre of choice, Putnam said she recommends book lovers look into bookstagramming.
Dont let it become a chore.
Its about reading the beautiful books we love and sharing them with others.
Katherine Snow Smith is a contributor to The Penny Hoarder.
It sounds appealing right?
Check it out here!
