Anyone who loves to read knows that it can become an expensive hobby. When a new book is published, or when shopping for an old favorite, prices can be high. However, by following a few rules of bargain hunting for books, the reader can save hundreds of dollars. Here are five ways to start saving money on books.
Use Bookswap Websites
Bookins.com, Paperbackswap.com, Bookmooch.com, and Bookcrossing.com are all sites that cater to the individual that wants to find a good read without having to pay for it. At the first three websites, people list books for trade. Each time a book is traded, the owner receives points. Points can be used to request a book from another patron. The only cost is postage, paid at book rate.
Buy Used Books Online
The Internet abounds with used bookstores. Many of these are aggregated in a larger site, such as Half.com, Abebooks.com, and Alibris.com. Betterworld.com is a site that contributes a portion of each sale to charities that promote literacy worldwide.
Buy Used Books in a Brick and Mortar Store
Used bookstores typically have a generous trade-in policy. Books are purchased outright, or the store owner may give credit toward future purchases. By frequenting used bookstores, the cost of buying books can be cut to almost nil. Most used bookstores allow customers to keep the credits indefinitely.
Buy Remaindered Books
Remaindered books are books that have been returned to the publisher and are now being offered for sale at a discount. One reason for the returns may be that the bookstore over-ordered copies of the book. Another may be the publisher over-produced copies. Whatever the reason, it is an opportunity for the reader to buy books at pennies on the dollar. Hamiltonbook.com is one site that specializes in remaindered books.
Buy Books at Library Sales
Library book sales are a secret source of many collectible and out-of-print volumes. Libraries sell donated books, and books that are no longer needed for circulation. Many of the books found at library book sales are donated from estates, and that’s where the rare gems may be found. Booksalefinder.com lists sales by libraries and non-profit organizations across the United States and Canada.
One Final Tip
Make it a habit to always compare prices. If a book is on sale in a brick and mortar store, check the price at Bookfinder.com before buying. This meta-site compares prices at over 100 different online new and used bookstores and book rental sites. This tool makes it simple to shop for the best deal.
Suzanne Pitner - Suzanne Pitner is a teacher and published writer. A member of RWA and YARWA, she writes fiction as Suzanne Lilly.
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