Do you ever feel totally uninspired to pick up a book? This happens a lot (even to librarians!) and it can be very frustrating, especially when you see that pile of books on your nightstand staring you down. Sometimes a good solution is to do things that are “reading-adjacent” – like listening to podcasts about books! There are so many bookish podcasts now… who knows where to start? Well, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites. Some review new books,   some talk about older books you might have missed, and some try to match readers with their perfect next read. Click on the links below to go directly to the website for each podcast.

Don’t know how podcasts work? Stop by the reference desk or a drop-in tech help session, and we can get you started on your phone or tablet.

Backlisted: This podcast talks about slightly older books that you might have missed when they first came out.

Book Riot Podcast: Book Riot is the largest independent editorial book site in North America, and while they offer a variety of podcasts, this one is the original. At almost 700 episodes, you’re sure to find something interesting!

Jeff and Will’s Big Gay Fiction Podcast: For avid readers and passionate fans of queer romance fiction.

NPR’s Book of the Day: These episodes average around ten minutes – a perfect amount of time to get a little glimpse into the books everyone is talking about.

Overdue: A podcast about books you’ve been meaning to read! From classic literature, to  obscure plays, to silly children’s books – something for everyone.

Read or Dead: This biweekly mystery fiction podcast from Book Riot is dedicated to the worlds of mystery and thriller literature.

So Many Damn Books: Author guests, special drinks, and more book recs than you can shake a stick at — what more could you need?

The Book Review Podcast: Go inside the literary world with this smart podcast from the New York Times. 

What Should I Read Next?: Anne Bogel interviews regular people who love to read, and suggests books based on their likes, dislikes, and reading style. 

When In Romance: A biweekly romance podcast dedicated to romance novel news, enthusiasm, and romance book recommendations from Book Riot.