Are you struggling to keep up with new releases and wondering how you can read on a budget and enjoy this rewarding hobby? Trust me I get it. In our current culture of social media book influencers, reading has become an expensive hobby. The constant pressure to pre-order and buy new release titles and special editions, and build expansive personal book collections can quickly become overwhelming. But, it doesn’t have to be that way. You can enjoy reading and collecting books without breaking the bank. Let me show you how.
How To Read On A Budget
Join Your Local Library
The most affordable option when it comes to reading books on a budget is to utilize your local library. Obtaining a library card gives you access to thousands of books for free! The best thing about this is that you have absolutely no skin in the game. You essentially get to test drive books for free and if they don’t work for you there’s no money lost. However, if you do enjoy the book you can always purchase it to add to your collection later.
If you’re into staying current with the popular books and new releases but don’t have an extra $30 to spare for each book you can place them on hold at the library. While patience is required since you will have to wait your turn to access the book you’re still making out like a bandit because you’ve saved tons of cash not having purchased it yourself.
Additionally, you can access e-books and audiobooks via your library as well. Using the Libby app gives you access to a variety of titles from popular new releases to backlist titles. The world is your oyster. It’s as simple as downloading the Libby app, selecting your local library, entering your library card information and you’re good to go.
Give Book Thrifting A Try
Another affordable option to aid in helping you read on a budget is to purchase gently used books from used bookstores either online or in person. This is especially desirable if like me you’re working to build and grow your personal library collection. Also, if you’re into reading a lot of backlist titles, or classics or you’re looking for a specific book edition this is a terrific option.
Some popular used booksellers include Half Price Books Thrift Books, Better World Books, Abe Books, and Pango Books. My two favorite used booksellers are Half Price Books and Pango Books. Half Price Books has physical locations you can shop from and provides the option to order online and pick in-store or have it sent directly to you. Pango Books is an online used book marketplace similar to Poshmark or eBay where users sell their used books to others. It also has an app you can download for the ultimate convenience in book shopping.
Take Advantage of Little Free Libraries
I love little free libraries and all they represent. They’re terrific at building community and spreading the joy of reading making it accessible for all. Plus they’re an excellent option for readers on a tight budget. You can download the little free library locater app to find one near you and hunt for books that spark your interest.
Prioritize Backlist Books
New releases are expensive and difficult to keep up with when you’re trying to tighten up your budget. However, choosing to focus on reading backlist titles can ease the pressure on your wallet. While not as popular and buzzworthy older titles are usually less expensive and easier to thrift. Making them ideal options when looking to control your reading budget.
Choose Paperback Over Hardcover
The average cost of hardcover books is usually $25.99-$27.99. Whereas paperback books range from $13.95-$17.95 making them the more affordable option. While they usually release a year or so following the hardcover release it’s worth it to save those extra dollars.
Invest In A Kindle
While this initial investment will set you back $159 for the ad-supported version and $179 for the ad-free version. Or, if you’re savvy you can purchase a refurbished or used Kindle at a reduced cost. Whichever route you choose it will be a worthy investment for two reasons.
The first is if you’re a Prime member you gain access to certain books that are only available to Prime members. Additionally, you get to participate in the Prime First Reads each month where you get to select a new release to read that month for free.
The second is you can sign up for Kindle Unlimited which gives you access to thousands of titles from indie and traditionally published authors. It costs $11.99 per month and you can read whatever books are marked with the Kindle Unlimited sign. This option is perfect for the person who prefers reading e-books over physical books and isn’t trying to build a personal library.
Also, it’s just been announced that four new Kindles are set to be released on October 30th. This includes the first-ever color Kindle the Kindle Colorsoft. To learn more about the new Kindle family click here.
Sign Up for A Book Subscription Box
If you want to stay up to date with new releases while saving money signing up for a book subscription box is a great option. A highly popular option is Book of The Month Club which allows you to choose one new release title which you get to select from a variety of genres.
As you can see there are many ways you can save money while enjoying the joy of reading. Are there other ideas you have about reading on a budget? Share them in the comments below. Until next time happy reading!!
