Back up original ebooks, catalog information, and reading notes separately where necessary. Keep an independent copy and periodically restore a sample. A synchronization service can propagate mistakes as efficiently as updates.
Identify what cannot be re-created
A purchased download might be available again; your annotations and custom organization may not be. Prioritize the work that only exists in your current reading system, including reading history and private notes.
Separate sync from recovery
A sync folder mirrors a working state. A backup should let you recover an earlier state after a deletion or damaged file. Check version retention and whether the backup can be accessed without the original application.
Practice a small restore
Pick three books and a set of notes. Restore them to a separate location, open the files, and compare source details. Record the date and outcome. A backup you have not opened is still an assumption.
The details, at a glance.
| Consider | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Original files | Keep readable copies in an independent location |
| Catalog | Export titles, sources, series, and custom fields |
| Annotations | Preserve passages, notes, and locations |
| Restore record | Date, sample checked, and any missing data |
A few things worth asking.
Is a second folder on the same drive enough?
It can help with a mistaken edit but will not protect against failure of that drive.
How often should I export notes?
Choose a schedule based on how much new reading work you would be willing to lose.
Written by Binge Reader. Our comparisons explain documented workflows and practical tradeoffs; they are not independent product benchmarks.