Dr. Crystal K. Waters

We all seek community – people that have similar hobbies, passions, and curiosities. At a young age, I was an avid reader. I enjoyed sitting in a quiet corner and reading books. In high school and college, reading became more of a chore. It was necessary to digest large amounts of information quickly to pass exams or write an essay. One day while in graduate school, I decided to visit the local book store. I found a $2 book entitled DC Trip by Sara Benincasa. I asked myself, “what is there to lose?” and came up with nothing. So I purchased the book and finished it within a few days.

In that moment, I realized that my love of reading never disappeared. It was only repressed. I had spent so many years reading for school that I had forgotten the pure joy acquired from finishing a good book – just because. After reading a few books, I had a desire to discuss what I had read. At the time, none of my friends were reading consistently and so I took to the internet. I was searching to find others that may be reading the same book as me. While scouring the world wide web, I ran across a book community on Instagram. It is commonly referred to as Bookstagram. It was full of people posting picture of books with ratings/reviews and their commentary, of course. I was intrigued by the dialogue and decided I should create a space for me. I called it The Leisure Library. I figured it was an appropriate name for my personal library, considering that I was very busy with my doctoral studies but created time for leisure reading.

Creating this online book community was a way for me to refocus energy into self, promote my creativity, and explore my interest in photography, reading, and writing.

What is the Bookstagram community vibe?

The community vibe is welcoming, supportive, and active! I vividly remember how inexperienced I was when I first picked up my camera is hopes of capturing Instagram-worthy book photos. I researched so much about imaging flat lays and tips and tricks to ensure that my images were up to par for such a creative audience. I realized that I did not need to input so much effort though. My Bookstagram followers were supportive of me and respected my opinions about a book. Reading, writing book reviews, growing my book collection, and connecting with other readers became a creative outlet for me during graduate school.

“Reading brings us unknown friends.”

– Honoré Balzac

A few of my favorite bookstagrammers

If you are interested in checking out the book community on Instagram, I will suggest a few of my favorite bibliophiles:

1. @wellreadblackgirl founded by Glory Edim; It is always encouraging to find a space in which your identity is reflected. I look forward to reading her memoir, Gather Me.
2. @diversespines created by Jamise Harper; I enjoy reading different genres. Finding a space that encourages reading a diverse book selection is inspiring.
3. @readwithjenna founded by Jenna Bush Hager on the Today Show; I like to keep up-to-date on mainstream books that are creating current chatter in America, and this community helps me do just that.

Become a part of my online book community

I founded The Leisure Library as a creative outlet during graduate school. It was my way to merge my love of art and books. I taught myself how to stage photos, optimize posting frequency, and of course, read books faster. Everywhere I go, I have a book with me. I can always find a few minutes to hear part of a good story.

Books allow us to build broader perspectives. The stories aid us in empathizing with those around us that are different. Readers are thinkers, leading conversations that catalyze the improvement of daily life. If you are interested in hearing my perspectives on what I’m reading, stay tuned! I will share book reviews, personal reflections, and book suggestions here on this site. A gallery of book photography can be found @theleisurelibrary on Instagram. I look forward to sharing my love of books and welcoming each of you into my book community!