A Curious Amalgam discussion
Where will you get your book?
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You know am frugal but impatient. Therefore the convenient, gratifying option is my go to. Instant download on Kindle. ;-)
Powells City of Books. In Portland. It's like a vacation destination
Powells City of Books. In Portland. It's like a vacation destination
1. THE LIBRARY! (In Print): Yes, they still exist folks. Check at your local library for a copy of the book. If it isn't "ON SHELF" you can look into putting it on hold, or a lot of libraries are associated with the other libraries in your county and can have a copy sent over. And it's... FREE.
2. The Library (ebook): I feel like this is one of the literary world's best kept secrets, but if you have a library card and some sort of tablet-like reading device (i.e. kindle fire, iPad, tablet, nook, etc) you can access your library's online stacks! It works the same as checking out a book in print, except you don't have to worry about returning it. They just remove it from your device at the end of your 21day period. Everybody cheer for no late fees! Also, FREE.
3. Local Used Book Stores: Our cultural has become increasingly reliant on electronic modes of... well... everything. So if you weren't able to check out the book at your library, the next best place is your local book store. We have to support these small local businesses or else they won't be an option anymore. Besiiiiiides, who doesn't love the smell of a well-loved book? Usually, used books stores have reasonable resell prices, and you're supporting local business which is great for the economy.
4. New book stores: Even though this stores sell the books for the full retail price, you can justify it in your mind, that at least the author is getting their royalties. You're also helping keep these brick and mortar shops in business. We would all be sad if we couldn't go and spend an ungodly amount of time browsing Barnes and Noble's shelves.
5. Online Used Book Stores: I REALLY like to support local businesses, but I'm also REALLY cheap.. er.. frugal. So, buying used from an online store is also a good option when your local shop doesn't have the book. thriftbooks.com and amazon.com are super affordable and convenient.
6. Amazon Prime: In a pinch? Most of the time you can get a new copy of whatever book you want in two days with Amazon Prime. I think.. but i'm not sure.. that the prices are usually below retail. Also, if you're lucky, you can occasionally find a used copy available on Prime.
7. Amazon Kindle or online ebook retailers: I'm a sucker for a real-live book in my hand, but some people really love electronic books. Although the library is always my first go-to for this, sometimes you just have to suck it up and buy it. Surprisingly, kindle isn't always the most affordable option when it comes to buying books, but it is definitely the most convenient and instantly gratifying option.
In conclusion, buying books can really add up, especially if you want to buy more than one each month. Hopefully, you can use a variety of these options to fit your book-reading and budgeting needs. :)