Like most people, you probably come across interesting links throughout the day, and share them with your friends and co-workers via email or IM.

If you use Google Reader, there's a better way.

For any item you read, feel free to share it by clicking on Share or Share with note.

The item will then be inserted into your "link stream" of shared items.

The unique thing about this stream is that it's available publicly on a webpage and as an RSS feed. Both options allow your friends and co-workers to stay informed of any new shared links of yours.

This is all provided free from Google. You've just created your own "shared links" webpage with only a few clicks!

Note links outside of Reader

Sometimes you land on webpages not originating from Google Reader itself - for example, that co-worker passing you an interesting link via IM. Perhaps you'd like to also share this link in your own "link stream." But without Google Reader open, how would you do it?

Easy - use the "Note in Reader" bookmarklet!

Under Your stuff, look for the "Note in Reader" link, which is actually a browser bookmark.

Drag this link to your browser's bookmarks bar:

When clicking this bookmark on any webpage, you'll be presented with a small window that will allow you to save the page in your links stream.

This is a quick and easy way to share links that do not originate from Google Reader.

Friends already using Google Reader

If your friends are also using Google Reader, there's an even better way to share links.

Just enable Sharing Settings and select your Google/Gmail contacts that are also using Reader!

After you enable this, your friends' shared items will show up right within Google Reader!

You could create a fun, collaborative collection of links amongst friends, family, and co-workers.

This approach sure beats passing around long links in email or IM. Plus it's not as intrusive.