Google has unveiled Google+, a series of social tools to create sharing networks, interactive chats and video conferences with online friends.

The program has three tools that could help authors, readers and publishers connect. The program is still in field testing (but available in the Android Market), but you can follow this link to sign up for updates.

1. Google+ Circles could help readers and writers set up simple groups for contacts–putting your writing group in one circle, your book club in another circle and your work friends in their own circle.

2. Google+ Hangouts could be an quick and easy way to set up a book club, study group or informal author event. The “live multi-person video” chatroom lets you have spontaneous but controlled conversations with your online friends.

3. Google Sparks could help us all talk about books online. Here’s more: “Healthy obsessions inspire sharing, and we’ve all got one (or two, or three…). Maybe it’s muscle cars, or comic books, or fashion, but the attraction is always the same: it comes up in conversation, we immediately jump in, and we share back and forth with other fans … Sparks delivers a feed of highly contagious content from across the Internet. On any topic you want, in over 40 languages. Simply add your interests, and you’ll always have something to watch, read and share”