To remove a book from your "Currently Reading" status on Goodreads, you can easily change its shelf status, which allows you to either move it to your "Want to Read" list, mark it as "Read," or completely remove it from your shelves. The most common action for stopping active reading is to change the book's shelf from "currently reading" to "to-read".
Removing from Your "Currently Reading" Shelf
If you've started a book but decided not to finish it for now, or you're taking a break, moving it off your "Currently Reading" shelf is straightforward. This action keeps the book on your profile but removes it from your active reading list.
Here's how to do it:
- Go to "My Books": Log in to Goodreads and navigate to your "My Books" section. This is typically found in the top navigation bar.
- Locate the Book: Find the specific book you wish to remove from your "Currently Reading" status. You can use the search bar or scroll through your shelves.
- Edit Shelves: On the book's entry, you will see your current shelves listed (e.g., "currently reading"). Click the "edit" link next to the shelves section.
- Change Shelf Status: In the editing options, deselect "currently reading" and select "to-read" (or "want to read" depending on the Goodreads interface version). This will move the book to your "Want to Read" shelf.
- Save Changes: Ensure you click "Save" or "Done" to apply your changes.
Once completed, the book will no longer appear on your "Currently Reading" shelf. It will instead be on your "Want to Read" shelf, indicating your intention to read it at some point, but it will still be part of your Goodreads profile.
Marking a Book as "Read"
If you've finished a book that was previously "currently reading" and want to log it as completed, you can change its status to "Read."
- Follow steps 1-3 above.
- In the shelf editing options, select "read" instead of "currently reading."
- You'll also have the option to set the date read and provide a rating or review.
- Save your changes.
Completely Removing a Book from Your Goodreads Profile
If you wish to entirely remove a book from all your shelves and your Goodreads profile—as if you never added it—you have that option too. This is typically done for books accidentally added or those you no longer want any association with.
- Go to "My Books": Navigate to your "My Books" section.
- Locate the Book: Find the book you want to remove completely.
- Access Removal Option:
- Click "edit" next to the shelves.
- Look for a link or button that says "remove from my books" or "delete" within the shelf editing options. This option is usually distinct from just changing shelves.
- Confirm Removal: Goodreads will typically ask for confirmation before permanently removing the book.
After confirming, the book will be deleted from all your shelves and will no longer appear on your profile.
Quick Comparison of Removal Options
Understanding the different ways to "remove" a book helps you choose the right action for your needs.
| Action | Purpose | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Change to "To-Read" | You've paused or stopped reading, but might read later. | Moves to your "Want to Read" shelf. Remains on your profile. |
| Mark as "Read" | You have finished the book. | Moves to your "Read" shelf. Remains on your profile. |
| Remove from My Books | You want no record of the book on your profile. | Book is completely removed from all shelves and your Goodreads profile. |
Why Your Reading Status Matters
Managing your Goodreads shelves helps you keep track of your reading journey, organize your books, and get relevant recommendations. Regularly updating your reading status ensures your profile accurately reflects your current reading habits and interests.
Common Scenarios and Solutions
Here are practical insights for various situations:
- You accidentally added a book: Use the "Remove from My Books" option for a clean slate.
- You started a book but decided not to finish it: Change its status to "To-Read" if you might return to it later, or "Remove from My Books" if you're sure you'll never read it.
- You're taking a long break from a book: Moving it to "To-Read" is a good way to clear your "Currently Reading" shelf without losing track of it.
- You finished a book and want to track it: Mark it as "Read" and consider adding a date read, rating, and review.
