There's an esoteric principle which is always worth remembering, 'Energy Follows Thought'.
Whatever you think about, wherever you put your mind, has an energetic effect. If you are reading about astral travel or ghosts or whatever, part of your mental and emotional energy is going to these realms. That starts to open a channel between your mind and these places. The 'inhabitants' will find this channel like rats exploring their environment, if you've ever watched rats, they just kind of flow into all the corners, nooks and crannies, going into every place they find.
So yes, your interest will be having an effect. If you want to keep any of these influences out, and I strongly recommend this, do a simple closing exercise after reading or visiting x/.
There will be lots of methods out there to google, I suggest keeping it simple;
>sit so you can feel your feet on the floor and your ass on the seat
>breathe calmly without forcing anything
>relax
>be aware of your own awareness 'sitting' in your head and in your body, feel your feet on the floor again
>if you are christfag, ask for the presence. If not, or no beliefs, visualise yourself as the best possible you there is, sitting strong in your own body, feel your feet on the floor again
>make up some words like,
>I sit strong in my power, and banish any other beings from my location
>I cut any ties or connections which might have been made to spirits during this time.
>I know myself to be strong, safe, and secure in my boundary
The words were off the top of my head, I do it more by feel.
Another visualisation I find very effective for keeping rooms clear is a wall of fire in each wall, allowing anything positive in but burning up anything unwanted. This is more for dealing with crap neighbours though.
The more you practice these things the stronger they get, and the stronger your appreciation of them. And the more confident you will be if and when you want to explore further.