- We concentrate on the books people won't find by themselves.
- We don't include the biggest bestsellers as everyone knows about them already.
- We do include lots of intriguing and less well-known titles – first novels, translations, black writers, new crime.
- We try to provide a wide choice for readers who use large print and audio formats
- The books in the database are all fiction and poetry in paperback written in or translated into English and published since 1995. Some library services are endeavouring to purchase all the titles in the whichbook database.
Spin-off benefits for literature
- Promotes non-mainstream books.
- Supports new authors and independent presses.
- Encourages libraries to buy and promote non-mainstream books.
- Increases library staff stock knowledge.
- Trains library staff in writing about books.
- Gives staff a non-judgmental language to discuss books they don't like.