Last week, we asked where you find books. Your sources spanned libraries, used bookstores, big chains, your friends’ libraries, little free libraries and more. But there was a unifying theme: Buying new books is expensive! Here’s what some of you said:
Kelli C. wrote: “I do still buy books and often it is because of libraries, Booklist, my book club, or book reviewers that I do so. Have I found a favorite book that I must savor beyond its due date? Purchase. Do I want a backlisted book that is hard to find? Purchase. Am I supporting a local bookstore or local author? Purchase. Did I read a book that must be kept on hand to share? Purchase. I do stay thrifty ... as well as mindful of my ever-growing personal library. But overall, I would never have the purchasing power to read as much if I actually bought every single book I read.”
Mary R. wrote: “My books come from two sources. Some come from friends who pass along books they've enjoyed and think that I will enjoy them too, which is usually true. But the vast majority (and looking at my TBR pile, it is vast!) are new hardbacks purchased from the chain bookstore in my town. I keep a list, bring it with me, and follow one rule: when the pile of books can no longer be supported in the crook of my left arm, then it's time to go up front and pay for the damages! I enjoy both the hunt for my list's titles and the physical delight of handling a book."
Pamela M. wrote: “I love our local library branch, the Burbank branch, housed in an old house in a nearby neighborhood, within walking distance of my house. I love the Portland (Maine) Public Library that will purchase a book when I read about a recent release that isn't in their catalog, and I ask them to purchase it and put my name on the 'reserve' list, and they do it! And they thank me for the recommendation and request?! I recently received an email from the PPL that informed me that I saved over $900 in the past year by borrowing books. Do I feel good about that? Yes. And, no.”
Jeanette B. wrote: “I have been going the second-hand route. I like to think it's an environmental choice as well as a financial one. My daughter and I have started a Christmas tradition of giving each other a box of books we have read during the year that we think/hope the other might enjoy. I also use the public library for books and audiobooks. Occasionally I will purchase a new book, but my Personal Library long ago outgrew its space.”
That’s all for now. See you next week!
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