The life of a bookworm is not a cheap one. Reading can be an expensive hobby. But there are ways to save money without sacrificing the joys of finding new books to add to your shelves.
Libby & Hoopla Hacks
You can attach more than one library card to the Libby app to access multiple library catalogs. My cousin and I shared library card information so she has access to my county library, and I have access to hers in New Jersey. Plus, some Libby library catalogs, like Queer Liberation Library, don’t require a county or city library card. All you need is your email!
Sharing Hoopla account info with another bookworm also helps spread resources to other catalogs. What your library may lack on the Libby app, another may have in their Hoopla catalog. This is a great site to find free audiobooks, e-books, comic books, and even movies, music, and TV shows.
Neighborhood Little Free Libraries
Little free libraries exist all over various communities and neighborhoods, or even at your local businesses. If you’re not sure where to find one, check the official registry for these book stands to find your nearest one. Just remember, this is more about swapping and not just dumping all your unwanted books on others. So, take a book, leave a book.
Organize a Book Exchange
Gather your fellow bookworm friends and family for a book swap. This is an especially great way to do a holiday exchange during Christmas time that won’t break the bank. It gives you a chance to share some of your favorite reads with your circle and discover new stories from other passionate readers.
Advance Reader Copies (ARCs)
Many book reviewers know you can request advanced copies of books from your favorite authors or anticipated new drops. But if you’re not as deep into the reading community or new (welcome!), then you may not have heard of these. Sites like NetGalley and Edelweiss let you create a FREE account where you may request these ARCs to read at your leisure.