Books on a Budget: Where to Buy Books Cheap

The only downside to my obsession with books is that books cost money.. It is super easy to get caught up in buying books especially when you are all over bookstagram, booktube nd booktok seeing everything that you just HAVE to read. Thankfully there are plenty of ways to read books on a budget. There are multiple options for all types of readers whether you are a physical book, E-book or audio book lover. Here are some ways to save money when reading books!

Your Local Library- This is the most underrated way to get books. Libraries have so much to offer besides books. For example, community outreach and storytime for kids are but a few examples of the many benefits of libraries. Most of the time you can find book clubs to join within the library. Libraries sell books as well, so make sure to keep an eye out for that. Buying books there is also a great way to give back to your community.

Libby- This app is perfect for all of the audio and e-book lovers out there. You use your library card to access thousands of books that are delivered right to your phone or kindle. You are able to read Ebooks on either the Libby App itself, or the Kindle App. So you do not need a kindle, just a device that allows you to download one of those two Apps. Sometimes you have long waitlists, but free is free! When books are delivered, you can push back your reservation as well!

Little Libraries - Not only are these free, this is a great way to give back to your local reader buddies. Give a book, take a book. Make sure to check out the Little Little Library App to find LLL near you. I always feel guilty if I do not have a book to leave, but when that happens I just make sure to leave an extra one next time I go.

Amazon Prime Reading- These days so many people pay the yearly Amazon Prime fee and do not even know everything it has to offer. Sure you get free shipping and Prime Video, but did you know you also get books? Prime reading is a great way to get books sent to your kindle or kindle app. There is an assortment of books, magazines, audiobooks and even comics that are constantly rotating in and out.

Thrift Books, Pango Books and Book Outlet - This is a great way to find specific books you are looking for second hand. I have not used PangoBooks as much as I have used Thriftbooks, but I have heard great things and have several friends who sell their used books there. I really enjoy Thrift Books because you earn points towards free books with every purchase. Make sure to always look at the condition before purchasing!

Second Chance Book Stores - While I do not have many of these near me, there are quite a few second chance book stores that will take your used books and give you a credit to buy books at their store. 2nd and Charles is a pretty popular bookstore here in Virginia that gives you a credit to get new books.

Thrift stores- One of my favorite things to do is go to local thrift stores and look through the book sections. It is like a treasure hunt, you never know what you will find. I have found Colleen Hoover, Sarah J Maas, Lucy Foley, Emily Henry and so many other amazing authors at thrift stores. Goodwill is always my go-to because they are everywhere.

Marketplace + Facebook Groups- Be on the lookout in your area for facebook groups that sell used books. I am in a group in Richmond Virginia (RVA) that always posts their books that they are either trying to sell or swap with someone. Usually it is a front porch pickup with venmo or paypal. Sometimes you will find someone willing to mail it to you as long as you pay shipping. I have gotten a few books this way. You may also be able to purchase books off of Marketplace.

Of course, keep an eye out for sales! Target, Books-A-Million and Barnes & Noble occasionally have buy one get one half off deals. Sometimes they even have buy two and get one free. Personally, I try to wait to buy a brand new book until there is a sale unless it is a special occasion like a release of one of my MUST buy authors or a limited edition book.

So if you are currently on a “book buying ban”, check out all of these resources to help you get through! You are always able to find ways to buy books cheap, you just have to know where to look. I hope this was helpful! Make sure to subscribe to my page!

Do you have a local bookstore you enjoy going to?