How to Export Your Goodreads Data and Import It Somewhere Better
Your reading history shouldn't be trapped in one app. Whether you're switching to a new tracker or just want a backup, here's exactly how to get your data out of Goodreads, and what you can do with it.
If you're also trying to solve device updates, pair this with our Kindle sync guide. For the full migration path, read how to switch reading apps without losing Goodreads, or compare the current Goodreads alternatives.
The Goodreads Export SHELVD Supports
SHELVD supports the standard Goodreads library CSV. It is the fastest, most reliable way to move your books, shelves, ratings, reviews, and dates into a new tracker.
CSV Export
Instant download
What you get:
- Book titles, authors, ISBNs
- Your ratings and reviews
- Shelf assignments
- Date added and date read
- Page counts
What you don't get:
- Reading session history
- Progress updates over time
- Reading pace data
Build Better History in SHELVD
Starts immediately
What you get:
- Bookmark progress logs
- Reading streaks and heatmaps
- Pace and finish-date predictions
- Goodreads-compatible CSV export
- Eligible sync connections by plan
Why it matters:
Your imported library gives you a clean starting point. New progress updates inside SHELVD make your analytics more useful over time.
Method: CSV Export (Instant)
Go to My Books
Log into Goodreads and navigate to My Books from the top navigation.
Find Import and Export
In the left sidebar, click Import and Export (near the bottom of the sidebar menu).
Export Library
Click the Export Library button at the top of the page. A CSV file will download immediately.
Import into SHELVD
In SHELVD, go to Settings → Data and upload the CSV file. You can also drag the file into Add Books.
Optional: Bring in StoryGraph Too
If you also used StoryGraph, SHELVD supports StoryGraph CSV imports from the same Settings > Data page. Import one source at a time and review matches before confirming.
Export from StoryGraph
Sign in to StoryGraph, go to Profile > Manage Account, and export your StoryGraph library CSV.
Upload the CSV
Use Settings > Data in SHELVD to upload the StoryGraph CSV and preview the import.
Review shelf mapping
StoryGraph's “Did Not Finish” status maps to Shelvd's “Set Aside” shelf, and ratings are rounded to the nearest half star.
Confirm the import
Confirm the matches you want to add, then keep tracking from your updated SHELVD library.
Pro tip: keep the original file
Save the CSV somewhere safe before importing. It is useful as a backup and makes it easy to retry if you want to review a different set of matches.
What Transfers and What Doesn't
| Data | Goodreads CSV | StoryGraph CSV |
|---|---|---|
| Books (title, author, ISBN) | Yes | Yes |
| Your ratings | Yes | Yes |
| Your reviews | Yes | No |
| Shelf assignments | Yes | Yes |
| Date started / finished | Yes | Yes |
| Reading session history | No | No |
| Progress updates over time | No | No |
| Reading pace data | No | No |
| Friends / social connections | No | Partial |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will importing delete my Goodreads account?
No. Exporting data doesn't change anything on Goodreads. You can use both apps simultaneously while you decide.
What if some books don't match?
Most books match automatically by ISBN. For any that don't, SHELVD will show you unmatched books and let you search for the correct edition manually.
Can I import from other apps too?
SHELVD supports Goodreads CSV and StoryGraph CSV imports. If you use another app and want to import, email us at [email protected].
How long does the import take?
Most CSV imports process quickly, though very large libraries can take longer. You can review matches before confirming.
The interface is user-friendly and intuitive, which is easily one of my favorite features of SHELVD.
Ready to import?
Create a free SHELVD account and import your Goodreads library in under 5 minutes. Get started free. No credit card required.