why won't bearshare read my ipod?

What do you mean by "won't read your iPod"? What is it you're trying to accomplish? And what specific model of iPod touch do you have and what version of iOS is it running? We need more details about the situation before anyone can offer much in the way of suggestions.

Regards.

Because iPod touches and iPhones (and I assume iPads) are not supported.

From the bearshare FAQ:

Can I load my BearSharesubscription music onto my iPod?

Yes you can. You can purchase Premium Tracks in order to transfer them to an iPod device (purchases are MP3s). You can right-click any Premium Track in the Search or Library section, and either click Download, or Buy Song.
Note: The iPod Touch and iPhone are not supported yet.

from:

http://support.bearshare.com/index.php?/Knowledgebase/Article/View/2/2/faqs---fr equently-asked-questions

Hi from BearShare Support!

Some iPod models including the iPhone and iPhone Touch are not currently supported by BearShare.

To transfer the tracks the tracks to an iPhone or iPod Touch, once downloaded or purchased, please import them into iTunes. In Windows 8,7 and Vista the files are located in C:/Users/<Computer Name>/ Music/ BearShare and in Windows XP they are located at My Documents/My Music/BearShare.

Hope this helps!

BearShare Support