Don't have experience of other sites to say for sure, MB, but that's a very good point you make. Like many others, I was an inveterate story reader on here long before I joined. Also, you are allowed generous access to the site without being a member at all, especially to the forums where you can learn a great deal. Oh, but the joy when you finally (and incredibly easily) join up and get to meet the 'stars' in chat and you can join in!
But you're right, MB, there is a great deal going on here above and beyond 'just' BDSM which gives it a real feeling of community.
Sorry to go off topic a bit.