Stella's Bargain Books Guide

If you are an avid reader like me, it can really have aneffect on your bank account. Here are my top places to get bargain books.

1. TheLibrary- Of course, the library is the number one place to get books. Not onlyis it free to borrow physical books but most libraries have expanded to loaningout ebooks as well. On top of borrowing books, public libraries may also have asmall section of books for sale or for free. These books are typically olderbooks that are no longer being checked out at a rate sustainable for thelibrary. Bonus if the books are for sale you will know that you arecontributing to your local library programs and collection.

• The DollarStore- Brand New books for $1! Heck, yes! Most of the books are overstockor lesser known titles.  My local storetypically carries general fiction, mystery, religious, and self-help titles. Of course, the availability and selection will depend on the store in your area.

Checking Out Titles at the Dollar Store!

• ThriftStore- Books are generally priced in the $5 and below range. There arebooks of all genres typically available. The downside is the quality of the book.There is no guarantee that pages won’t be marked up, have personalized stickersand stamps from strangers and occasionally a missing page or two. So while it’sa great place for books on a budget be sureto check the book thoroughly for damage.

• GroceryStore Clearance Bins- Grocery stores usually only sell best sellers, and there is a high rate of rotation. Thatmeans you can generally find brand new bestsellers on clearance from 10% up to 50% offthe cover price.

So many Books at the Thrift Store

• BookstoreClearance- Brick and Mortar bookstoresare fifth on the list because they generally have lower discount rates on theirbooks. You may pay more at a local bookstore than larger chain stores, but I like to shop local as much as possible.

• TheInternet- The internet is last on my list simplybecause you can’t physically inspect your book before it arrives. Even morereputable dealers like Amazon and Barnes and Nobles can have bad print runswith blurry covers or cut off text.

Where do you get your bargain books? Drop suggestions and links in thecomments!