A reader link is a controlled path to content you approve — not a public URL indexed by search engines. You decide who gets access, and you can align that with circle entries so the right people are matched to the right material.
This model is closer to “invited guests” than “followers.” It is meant for families and trusted contacts, not for building an audience.
When to keep things narrow
Not every story belongs to everyone. Legacy OS is built around explicit rules so you do not accidentally over-share because a default was left on.