Friday, November 5, 2010

Review: Collectorz

As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew, we have the chance to review all kinds of fun curricula, and we really enjoy that.  However, sometimes we get the chance to review something that isn't strictly homeschooling related.  Something for mom and dad.  And that can be even more fun!

This review is one of those.  Collectorz is collection database software.  We were thrilled to receive a license for the Book Collector Pro program.  Collectorz also has software for cataloging music, movies, mp3s, comics, games, and photos.

One thing I love is that the program is available for PCs, for Macs, for iPods, or online.  I have the Mac version, and may purchase the iPod app at some point.  You know, once I get a fair number of my books input.  Can you imagine, standing at that table at the used curriculum sale, being able to pull out the Touch and quickly discovering that yes, in fact, you already have a copy of that bargain book?  Oh, that could save me some money!

You enter your books by either keying in the ISBN, or using one of a couple types of scanners.  I don't own a CueCat or anything, so I input everything by keying it in myself.  It was not as bad as it sounds though, and I loved that as I put in the ISBN, the book details and cover art would pop up.  And the details are pretty impressive for some of these books:


I have not had nearly enough time to work with this program, but I am loving it.  One great aspect (for me!) is that I can even include a link to my review of the book in the information.  See the "Footprints in the Butter" link in the info above (okay, only if your eyes are MUCH sharper than mine!)  Is that great, or what?

Book Collector is available for a free 30 day trial, and then you can purchase the standard version for $29.95 -- or the pro version for $49.95.  The Pro version has a lot more customization and report options, and at least for most homeschoolers I know, I think it is worth the extra money.  One great aspect of the Pro version is the ability to keep track of books you have loaned out.  I'm loving that.

You can check out what my fellow crew-mates have to say about Collectorz at:



Any questions? I'd love to know what you would want to know in deciding whether or not this is something you want to purchase.

Disclaimer:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Review Crew, I did receive this software from Collectorz.  The fact that I received a complimentary product does not guarantee a favorable review.  It does guarantee a review. A fair review. But I am not going to praise something unless I think it deserves the praise.  If I don't like it, you'll hear that.  And hopefully with enough detail as to why so you can decide for yourself if what I hate about it makes it perfect for your family.  For more about my take on reviews, visit my blog post here.

2 comments:

Michelle Smith said...

Debra, great review, as usual. You always seem to mention details I skip or forget. I did not even notice (or maybe recall?) that detail about linking your title to an online review. Pretty nifty detail to forget about!

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