Reading movements on a social networking site of book lovers„Moly.hu”

Abstract

Libraries, librarians and others interested in reading development have to learn to make use of the advantages of rapid technological development. While it may seem surprising at first sight that from among leisure activities it is the use of computers – usually considered as a “rival” to reading – that may contribute to reading development, we must not forget that we live in the age of e-book readers. Nowadays PCs and mobile devices not only mediate digital texts but, through various applications and internet facilities, they also motivate users to read. The so-called “challenges” (invitations to read, share experience, take part in competitions etc.) published and conducted on Moly.hu belong to such motivation initiatives. “Moly.hu” is a social networking site dealing with books and reading, one of the most obvious examples of Web 2.0. The article presents, based on data of a survey conducted among its users, how far similar surfaces serve as a virtual community space where people with a diversity of interests and cultural backgrounds can meet. The composition of users, their habits and tastes, as well as reading motivation were examined.