Last.fm, a beloved music platform for scrobbling and tracking listening habits, doesn't offer a direct export function for bookmarks. This means getting your bookmarks into a CSV (Comma Separated Values) file requires a bit of ingenuity. This guide will walk you through the process, addressing common questions and offering solutions.
What are Last.fm Bookmarks?
Before we dive into the export process, let's clarify what Last.fm bookmarks are. They're essentially saved links to artists, albums, or tracks you want to revisit later. They're stored within your Last.fm account, but unfortunately, aren't readily downloadable in a structured format like CSV.
Can I Directly Export Last.fm Bookmarks to CSV?
No, Last.fm does not provide a built-in feature to export bookmarks as a CSV file. This is a common user request, and while there's no official solution, we can achieve this using alternative methods, as explained below.
How Can I Save My Last.fm Bookmarks as a CSV? (The Workaround)
The most effective method for saving your Last.fm bookmarks as a CSV file is a manual approach. This involves manually copying and pasting data into a spreadsheet program. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Access Your Bookmarks: Log in to your Last.fm account and navigate to your bookmarks section. The exact location might vary slightly depending on the site's design, but it's usually accessible through your profile settings or a similar area.
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Create a Spreadsheet: Open a spreadsheet program like Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, or LibreOffice Calc. Create a new spreadsheet.
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Create Columns: Create at least two columns: "Bookmark Name" and "URL." You can add additional columns if you wish (e.g., "Date Bookmarked," "Notes").
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Copy and Paste: Go through each of your Last.fm bookmarks. For each bookmark:
- Copy the name of the artist, album, or track (this will be your "Bookmark Name").
- Copy the URL of the bookmark (this will be your "URL").
- Paste the name and URL into your spreadsheet's corresponding columns.
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Save as CSV: Once you've entered all your bookmarks, save your spreadsheet as a CSV file. Most spreadsheet programs allow you to directly export to this format.
What if I have Hundreds of Bookmarks?
Manually entering hundreds of bookmarks is time-consuming. Unfortunately, there's no automated tool specifically designed for this. The manual method remains the most reliable. Consider breaking the task into smaller, manageable chunks to avoid fatigue.
Are there any Browser Extensions that can Help?
While there aren't any browser extensions specifically designed to export Last.fm bookmarks as a CSV, you could potentially use a browser extension that allows you to export bookmarks from your browser if you've saved your Last.fm bookmarks in your browser's bookmark manager. However, this approach is less reliable because it depends on how you've organized your bookmarks and doesn't directly interact with Last.fm's bookmark system.
Can I Use a Script or Program to Automate This?
While a dedicated script or program to automate the process doesn't currently exist publicly, a skilled programmer could potentially create one using Last.fm's API (Application Programming Interface), assuming the API allows access to bookmark data. This, however, requires advanced technical knowledge.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Website Updates: Last.fm's website design might change, slightly altering the location of the bookmarks section. If you can't find your bookmarks, consult Last.fm's help section or search online for updated instructions.
- Spreadsheet Software: Ensure you're using a spreadsheet program that supports CSV export.
By following these steps, you can successfully save your Last.fm bookmarks in a CSV file, ensuring you have a readily accessible backup of your favorite music links. Remember to back up your CSV file regularly.
