BookTok Community Building: Dissecting Fangirl Behavior on TikTok
Zoë Abigail Teel, Brady Lund ABSTRACT
This poster explores how BookTok, a social media community on TikTok focused on literature, builds a community among an audience of primarily female readers, sometimes called “fangirls.” The researchers analyzed comments on popular BookTok videos, finding that emotional responses, generic comments, and seeking interaction with other viewers were most prevalent. BookTok discussions prioritize shared experiences and emotional connection over critical analysis, creating a welcoming space for readers of all ages. This research suggests that BookTok functions similarly to traditional book clubs, offering a platform for community building and potentially boosting reading engagement and offers possibilities for engagement for libraries and educators.