What's it all about?
The virtual library, readme.cc, is an independent cultural and artistic project that aims to encourage the discussion of books across language barriers.
Share what you read and set up your own personal library free of charge.
Readme.cc is open to all readers, so why not join the virtually library now?
Simply register at readme.cc and start building your own personal library.
On this page we answer FAQs.
How it works
- What is the readers' gallery?
The virtual library is reader-centred. As a readme.cc user, you're invited to photograph yourself with a book of your choice on either a digital camera or mobile phone. You can then upload your picture onto the site.
- Who's a reader?
Readers are all users of readme.cc who have registered and created personal bookshelves. Anyone can register and it's completely free of charge!
- What is a self-portrait?
A self-portrait is a photograph of a reader with a book. Books are nothing without their readers, so we think this is a really important aspect of readme.cc. It gives you the chance to present yourself with one of your favourite books. If you're looking for a bit of guidance, have a look at some of our sample portraits. Then give us your best shot!
- How can I upload my self-portraits?
Self-portraits, either as MMS or e-mail attachments, can be uploaded on readme.cc by sending them to upload@readme.cc.
- What is 'My Readme'?
'My Readme' is your personal space. When logged in you can arrange your bookshelf, modify your profile, upload book tips, use interactive tools and send personal messages.
- What is a bookshelf?
A bookshelf is a collection of concise tips for all kinds of 'books for the future'. Your bookshelf sets itself up automatically as soon as you register at readme.cc and upload your self-portrait with a book. By supplying information about your books, as well as writing short reviews, you communicate your tastes to other readers. The virtual library is made up of everybody's personal bookshelves.
- What is 'My bookshelf'?
'My bookshelf' is your personal bookshelf at readme.cc. It is automatically created when you register at readme.cc and upload a self-portrait with a book. You can display books on your personal bookshelf and let other readers know what you think about them. readme.cc's 'virtual library' is the sum of all personal bookshelves.
- What is a book tip?
A tip is a recommendation for a good read. In addition to a self-portrait, it includes a list of categories to help other readers find particular kinds of books, and an optional short review with a maximum of 2000 characters.
You are free to give tips for different genres of books: fiction, non-fiction, guides, new releases, old editions, etc...
- What is an expert`s tip?
Experts' tips are concise recommendations by experts who have been appointed by representatives of readme.cc. These specialists are professionally involved with books or have been appointed experts by readme.cc's editorial staff due to their passion for books. They include authors, scientists, critics, artists and media professionals.
- How do I arrange my bookshelf?
To arrange your bookshelf, simply click an image and drag it to where you want it, holding down the left mouse button. You can rate each tip on a scale of 1 to 3. This value reflects how well you think each tip will get the feeling of a book across to other readers.
- What happens if I copy a book tip?
Copying a book means the book you've selected will be duplicated in your personal bookshelf. This is a way of showing that you are interested in this book too. The 'owner' of the book will then receive a notification that you've copied it.
You can return copied books whenever you want - they will then be deleted from your personal bookshelf.
- Why should I translate a book tip?
Readme.cc aims to cross language barriers and make the most interesting book tips known to readers of different languages. Your translations will help us do so.
- What is a literary relationship?
Readme.cc establishes literary relationships when readers dicsuss the same authors, books or book tips.
Readme.cc will automatically establish a relationship between users when readers have two or more books in common or have uploaded books by the same author onto their personal bookshelves.
- How can I recommend a bookshop or library?
Readers can recommend libraries and bookshops they value on readme.cc. There is a link to this tool under 'My Readme' and you also get the chance to do this when you upload a book tip. Simply click 'buy this book at a local bookshop' or 'borrow this book tip at a local library'. Then click 'add new point' followed the location on the map. Finally fill in the appropriate information under 'add new bookstore/library' in the column on the right.
In addition to recommending bookshops and libraries you can comment upon others' recommendations with this feature. The tool contains libraries and bookshops where reviewed books are available.
- What are comments?
Comments are your reactions to book tips, books or authors. These comments are connected with and refer to book tips and author pages. You can post your comments at the bottom of any book tip and it's a great way to start a virtual literary debate!
- What are discussions?
Discussions bring readers together to grapple with a variety of themes. They are initiated by readme moderators and can be about books, authors and new developments in the e-literary world.
- What events does readme.cc run?
Events take place in real and virtual space. They are platforms for literary discussion such as book groups, readings, workshops, performances, festivals, exhibitions and more. Events are announced in the calendar of events and may be documented in a variety of ways in the archive.
- How do book groups work?
Book groups are bookshelves created and maintained by multiple readers. They may be closed or open access and may complement existing book groups or be started from scratch.
- What is the timeline?
The timeline records what readme.cc users have been up to. You can use it to view selected categories (eg. book tips). To do this click the relevant subtitle.
- What is an 'advanced search'?
The advanced search tool allows you to search for books by author and title, but also by genre, style, etc. Type in the name you are looking for, or select the desired term from those listed above. You will receive book tips from the archives of the virtual library.
- What is the newsletter?
The newsletter is distributed every few months via email and keeps you up to date with the latest news, information and events from readme.cc.
The librarians recommend using this service. You can cancel your subscription to the newsletter whenever you like. All email addresses are kept confidential.
- What are personal notifications?
We will keep you up to date about all new comments and friend requests in your profile. What is more, the latest and best book tips will be delivered to your inbox, free of charge. This is an excellent service to help you pick good reads on a regular basis.
Your can also request immediate notification via email if someone has left a comment in your bookshelf or when a name has been added to your list of friends.
The librarians recommend you take advantage of this service. You can cancel your subscription for notifications whenever you like.
- What are Readme-products?
A block of Post-its contains 50 pages, measures 68 by 74.5 mm and is decorated with the Readme.cc logo.
We offer them in packages of 100 to bookshops, libraries and other interested parties at cost price - 70 cents per Block - with postage and packing in addition.
The magnetic bookmark is decorated with the Readme.cc logo.
We offer packages of 100 to bookshops, libraries and other interested parties at cost price.
