OBDb+

OBDb+ is an optional way to support the ongoing development of The Open Book Database, with a small set of additional, non-essential perks for readers who want them.

The core of OBDb — browsing books, tracking what you’ve read, and participating in the community — is designed to be useful and complete on its own. OBDb+ exists for readers who find value in the project and want to support the effort.

Why OBDb+ exists

OBDb is built around the idea that a thoughtful reading experience shouldn’t be locked behind a paywall. The core of the site is designed to be useful and complete on its own, and many of the ideas that shape it come directly from the community.

At the same time, building and maintaining OBDb takes ongoing work — from keeping the catalog accurate and well-structured to designing features that respect how people actually read. OBDb+ exists as a way to support that work.

Subscribing doesn’t unlock a different version of OBDb. It helps sustain the one that already exists.

Whether you use OBDb casually or keep detailed records of everything you read, the goal stays the same: to support reading as it actually happens.

If OBDb+ feels like a good fit, it’s there. If not, OBDb remains fully usable without it. Either way, the project is shaped by the people who use it and we are genuinely grateful to have you here.

What OBDb+ adds

OBDb+ focuses on depth rather than exclusivity. Additions are designed to extend the experience quietly, without fragmenting the core of the site.

• More detailed reading statistics, including insights per bookshelf
• Expanded Yearbook content — a more detailed annual wrap-up of your reading activity
• More ways to sort and explore your reading history and reviews
• More room for longer-form reviews when you want to say more

OBDb+ features are built with the same principles as the rest of the site: no pressure, no gamification, and no incentives to read more than you want to.

What doesn’t change

Choosing not to subscribe to OBDb+ doesn’t take anything away from the core experience.

You can still browse the catalog freely, track your reading, use bookshelves, rate, review, and like books, and participate in the community.

OBDb+ is about adding a little extra depth for those who want it, while keeping the core experience intact for everyone else.

Who OBDb+ is for

OBDb+ is for readers who enjoy looking back on their reading over time, care about patterns, context, and detail, and want to support the project.

If that sounds like you, and if OBDb+ feels like a good fit, it’s there. If not, that’s perfectly fine too.

It’s not required, and it’s not expected — just appreciated.