As readers, we all love getting new books, but while we may wish we had an endless amount of money to spend on said books, it’s not always reality. This why it’s important to find places to get books at affordable prices.
Here are a few places to find good books without emptying your wallet.
1. Little Free Libraries
Little Free Libraries are boxes found in neighborhoods, parks, and even on the side of the road, full of free books.
The general rule is that if you take a book, you leave a book there for someone else to enjoy. This is a great way to share books that you love with others.
I’ve found all kinds of books in my local Little Free Libraries. Here are a few of my recent finds:
- We Are All Good People Here- Susan Rebecca White
- The Room on Rue Amelie- Kristin Harmel
Tips: Use the map on the Little Free Library website to find all of the locations in your area.
2. Library Booksales
Once or twice a year most libraries clear out old books to make room for news ones. Then all of these books are sold at the library book sale for a discounted price.
Many libraries have also started selling old books in a separate library used bookstore. My local library does this and it’s absolutely wonderful.
Tips: Get there at opening time so that you don’t end up looking through picked-over stacks.
3. Used Bookstores
I could spends hours in a used bookstore, but then I might have to call a moving company to help me get all my books home.
That’s because used bookstores tend to have great selections for generally affordable prices. This great not only because you get more bang for your buck, but it keeps books from being thrown away.
Tips: Be picky. Don’t buy anything unless you’re sure you want it.
4. Garage Sales
More and more people are selling their old books at garage sales which makes it easier than ever to get books for almost nothing. People often sell popular and classic books for fairly low prices at garage sales because they don’t want to go through hassle of donating them.
Tips: When it comes to buying books at garage sales be very picky. Look through the books and make sure there’s no mold or pages missing. If you find a book that’s wet or missing a cover, leave it.
5. Book Swaps
Ah! The thrill of trading old books for news ones. Books swaps are another great place to get books because you literally don’t have to pay a cent for the books. All you have to do is bring books that you don’t want and swap them for new books.
Tips: Check Facebook and community publications for book swap events happening in your area.
6. Your Local Library
Last but most definitely not least, is one of the first and easiest ways to read for free: the local library. Libraries are a staple of the community because they allow anyone access to information at no cost.
To check out books from your library, all you have to do is get a library card. I always gets lots of books from the library because I can read the books and make sure I like them before buying them.
Tips: Before you go in to get your card, make sure you know what documents are required to get a library card.
Additional Tips
- When you shop for books, set a budget for yourself. Take that amount out of your account in cash so you don’t go over.
- Make a list of books that you want to get and keep it in your purse or phone.
- Don’t get overwhelmed. Only get as many books as you can handle.
Do you know any other reputable places to get books affordably? Let me know in the comments.
We have a few little free libraries in my neighborhood. I’ve found some great books in them.
Oh I remember saving up a full year when I was in college just to be able to afford books. Great suggestions here tho I wish I knew them before 😊