Dear Facebook, By the Time You Read This”

Why Readers Aren’t Posting on Facebook Anymore — And Where They're Sharing Instead

If you've noticed that your book posts on Facebook aren't getting the same likes, comments, or reach they used to — you're not imagining it. Facebook is no longer the thriving space it once was for book lovers.

The truth is that readers haven’t stopped sharing their thoughts on books — they’ve just moved to new platforms that better fit how they want to engage.

In this post, we’ll explore why readers are drifting away from Facebook, and where they’re choosing to share their bookish thoughts instead.

Is Facebook Still a Place for Readers?

Not really — or at least, not like it used to be.

Facebook was once a buzzing hub for book groups, reading challenges, and community-driven discussions. But things have shifted. Here’s why many readers have stopped posting there:

1. The Algorithm Works Against Them

Facebook’s algorithm is designed to prioritize content that gets big reactions — often political posts, viral videos, or trending debates. Book reviews and reading updates often get lost in the feed, even in niche groups.

Readers feel like they’re talking into the void — and that’s not fun.

2. Groups Have Become Too Promotional

Many book-related groups are now flooded with self-promo, ads, and off-topic chatter. What used to be a cozy, reader-first community often feels more like a marketplace. That’s a turn-off for people looking for genuine conversation.

3. Platform Fatigue Is Real

After years of using Facebook, many people are simply… tired of it. Between privacy concerns, political content, and endless notifications, it’s not the quiet, creative space readers crave anymore.

4. Younger Readers Are Just Not There

Gen Z — and even younger Millennials — don’t spend much time on Facebook at all. Their social lives and bookish conversations happen on different platforms. If your audience skews younger, they’ve likely moved on already.

So Where Are Readers Sharing Books Now?

Readers are still connecting, recommending, and reviewing books — they’re just doing it in places that feel more natural, creative, and fun. Here’s where they’re going:

Instagram (#Bookstagram)

Instagram remains a strong community for readers, especially through the #Bookstagram world. Readers post selfies, mini-reviews, TBRs, and aesthetic reels or stories about what they’re reading.

Why it works: It’s visual, curated, and still feels like a personal journal of reading life.

TikTok (#BookTok)

TikTok has become a game-changer in the book world. Book Tok is full of readers emotionally reacting to books, creating trend-driven recommendations, and celebrating their favourite characters.

Why it works: It’s quick, expressive, and highly shareable — plus, books often go viral here.

Goodreads & Story Graph

Goodreads remains a staple for tracking reads, sharing reviews, and joining reading challenges. But many readers are shifting to Story Graph for its clean design, spoiler-free reviews, and better analytics.

Why it works: Both platforms are purpose-built for readers, with no distractions.

Discord

More and more readers are joining Discord servers — often by invite — where they can join smaller, real-time communities based on genre or author fandoms.

Why it works: It’s private, focused, and perfect for deep conversations without outside noise.

Threads & Reddit

Meta’s Threads is slowly becoming a place where bookish people can post quick thoughts, start discussions, and connect casually. Reddit, meanwhile, remains a treasure trove of in-depth book talk in subreddits like r/books or r/Fantasy.

Why it works: It’s less about performance and more about honest conversation.

What This Means for Authors, Book Bloggers, and Creators

If you're trying to engage with readers and aren't seeing results on Facebook, it might be time to shift your strategy.

Here’s what you can do:

• Go where your readers are. If they’re active on TikTok or Instagram, build your presence there.

• Be part of the community. Don’t just promote your books — join the conversation as a fellow reader.

• Try new content formats. Short-form video, carousel posts, Q&As, or casual voice notes go a long way on newer platforms.

• Collaborate with content creators. Partnering with Book Tokers or Bookstagrammers can introduce your work to active, passionate audiences.

Final Thoughts

Readers haven’t stopped sharing what they love — they’ve just found better spaces to do it. While Facebook may still play a role for some, the real energy has moved elsewhere.

So, whether you’re an author, blogger, or just someone who loves connecting over books, now’s the time to explore new platforms and meet your readers where they truly feel at home.

Need help finding your ideal platform?

Feel free to reach out or comment below — I’d be happy to point you in the right direction based on your audience and genre.

Blog Metadata (for SEO)

SEO Title: Why Readers Are Leaving Facebook — And Where They're Sharing Book Reviews Now

Meta Description: Noticing fewer book-related posts on Facebook? Discover why readers are moving away from the platform — and the new digital spaces where book conversations are thriving.

#TheDigitalMarketingCrew #ECUMKT5325, and others if you deem any suitable, along with the following disclaimer: (Disclaimer: This content is for the sole purpose of teaching and learning at Edith Cowan University).