HarperCollins refreshes BookGig

HarperCollins’ publisher agnostic online events platform, BookGig, has had a face-lift.

A year after it launched, the website, which connects authors with new and existing readers, now boasts new features, an updated design and a personalised user experience, including a special algorithm to make recommendations.

Nick Coveney, HarperCollins UK’s digital innovation and projects director, said: “We’re very grateful for the support BookGig has received from the trade, which has helped us match readers with book-related events from all publishers. Following on from the success of our first year, we have worked to overhaul and improve the user experience so that consumers will find it easier than ever to discover events they’ll enjoy.”

He added: “We want BookGig to be the first place people go to for book events, and we know our users will love the updated site.”

The site, which has been built by web development company Lab19 Digital, is now responsive, the homepage carousels showcase upcoming events based on the users’ likes, preferences and event history and a user profile feature has been introduced to the platform so participants can create their own profile and receive personalised recommendations tailored to their favourite authors, genres, event type, or preferred location.

The platform launched in October last year featuring author events across the UK, with talks, signings, Q&A sessions, readings and hands-on workshops from all major booksellers, 500 independent retailers, all publishing houses and literary festivals.