I am a lover of the written word. Being an only child, it was my favorite pastime and guilty pleasure. Guilty pleasure because every now and then, I would sneak in a Judy Blume book unbeknownst to my parents. Now as a 41 year old woman with my own children, I still believe in the power of a good book. But, alas, books are expensive! So what is a fly momma on a budget to do??
Library: Not your home library, but thee library. The County, City, Public Library. FREE books...what a concept! The library is a tremendous free source for books, periodicals, newspapers, DVD's, audio books, e books and internet service. If my children need a book for school...the library. If I want to read a book...the library. If we want to check out a new movie...the library. Of course, you must return the items within 3 weeks; however, they can also be checked out again up to three times continuously. Also, if the library does not have what you are requesting; they can order it from another library. You can opt to be notified by mail, email or text message when it is available at your library of choice.
Digital Books/ e-books: Let's face it...technology has arrived and it's not going anywhere, anytime soon. Don't be afraid of it, embrace it! I recently purchased a Sony Reader Daily Edition for $399 (free shipping and no tax) from an online store that I googled. Other reputable digital books are also made by Amazon (the Kindle) and Barnes & Noble (the nook). I like the Sony version because it is touch screen, has free library access and books can be downloaded from the Sony store, as well as, www.overdrive.com. This digital book runs on a 3G network (Sprint); which allows you to download books anywhere at anytime. I have downloaded two books thus far. The average cost of an e-book is around $10. The average cost of a new, hardcover novel is around $20...so it's half the cost. I can store hundreds upon hundreds of books in one small device that fits in my purse...gotta love that! Books that I do not need for future use, I head to the library. Books that I would like to keep (for whatever reason), I download on my reader.
Real books: Ok, so the library and the digital book concept didn't work for you and you just want the old school paper book...I got you covered. Purchase online, use a coupon code, buy "previously read," and avoid shipping at all costs. Example, I recently became enthralled watching G. Garvin's (sexy chef) show on Tv1. Chef Garvin's latest book is entitled "Dine In." We were obviously on the same budget minded wave length, so I decided to purchase. The library was not an option because this is a book needed for future use. The e-book was not an option because it would not be practical. Therefore, I knew I had to purchase a real book. First step: Comparison shopping websites and coupon codes. The top sites are bizrate.com, nextag.com, shopzilla.com, pricegrabber.com, smarter.com, coupons.com, pronto.com, couponcabin.com, ebates.com, fatwallet.com, woot.com, dealnews.com and dealcatcher.com. Once you have found your vendor (Amazon.com is great for books), buy used if possible. G. Garvin's book new is $24.95 list price. I purchased a "like new" copy on Amazon for $3.00 + $3.99 shipping...can't beat that with a stick. Additionally, if you purchase books frequently, Barnes & Noble has a membership club for $25 annually that will save you over 40% on your purchases.
The Bottom Line: If you just need a book, go to the library. If you like to read and don't have the need for a paper version, purchase an e-reader. If you love to read and need the paper version, shop smart and do not pay shipping unless you got a great deal!
Tune in next time for dining out bargains.
No comments:
Post a Comment