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How to Save Money on Books Without Missing Out on Great Reads
Save money on books without sacrificing your love for reading, yes, it's absolutely possible. For the bookworms, few things compare to diving into a great story. Whether you're an avid reader, a homeschooling parent, or simply rekindling your reading habit, building a personal library is every book loverâs dream. However, this passion can quickly become costly.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to enjoy quality literature that wonât drain your wallet. With a few smart strategies, you can save hundreds of dollars while still enjoying your favorite authors and discovering new ones. From exploring free digital libraries to shopping at second-hand bookstores, the options are endless and rewarding.
1. Use Your Local Library
Libraries are one of the most valuable and often overlooked free resources available in nearly every community. Far from being just quiet halls filled with dusty shelves, modern libraries have evolved into dynamic, tech-savvy hubs that offer a wide range of services without costing a penny. They provide not only access to thousands of physical books but also digital content, educational programs, and community activities that cater to all age groups.
Hereâs what modern libraries typically offer:
Online catalogs that let you search and reserve books in advance.
Inter-library loan services allow you to borrow books from other branches or networks if your local library doesnât have them.
E-books and audiobooks are accessible through free apps, so you can read or listen on the go.
Online forums and book clubs, where readers can connect, share reviews, and engage with like-minded individuals.
Workspaces, free Wi-Fi, and printing services make them ideal for students, freelancers, or remote workers.
These services are especially convenient for people with tight schedules. Instead of browsing for hours, you can reserve your books online and pick them up during lunch breaks or while running errands. Whether you're looking to save money on entertainment or want to encourage reading at home, your local library is a smart and resourceful place to start.
2. Install the Library Chrome Extension
If you're an online book shopper, especially someone who frequently browses Amazon, the Library Extension for Chrome is a game-changer and yet, it's still surprisingly underused. This free browser add-on helps you save money and time by automatically checking your local libraryâs catalog while you shop for books online.
Hereâs how it works: when youâre viewing a book on sites like Amazon, the extension instantly searches your connected public library to see if that book is available in print, eBook, or audiobook format. If it is, youâll see a small box appear on the page with a direct link to borrow it from your library.
Not only does this save you from making unnecessary purchases, but it also helps you discover the full value of your library membership without leaving your browser. You can connect it to multiple libraries (great for students or families with access to different systems), making your reading habit far more affordable and efficient.
3. Take Advantage of Free E-Book Apps
You donât need to spend a fortune to build a digital library there are plenty of free e-book apps that give you access to thousands of titles at no cost. One of the most popular and widely accessible options is the Kindle app, which works seamlessly across all major devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers. You donât even need a Kindle device to use it. Amazon offers a vast selection of free or low-cost e-books, especially in categories like classics, self-published titles, indie authors, and limited-time promotions.
One of the best features is the âTop 100 Freeâ Kindle Books list, which updates daily and features trending titles across various genres from romance and sci-fi to biographies and cookbooks. In addition to Amazon, apps like Libby, Hoopla, and Google Play Books also offer access to free e-books, especially when connected to your local library account. These platforms let you borrow digital books and audiobooks with just a library card, all from the comfort of your home.
Keeping an eye on these platforms and their daily deals can save you hundreds over time. Whether you're a casual reader or a passionate bibliophile, these apps are essential tools to save money on books while enjoying a diverse selection of literature.
4. Create a Community Book Pool
One of the most budget-friendly and rewarding ways to enjoy more books without spending a lot is to start a book-sharing group with people who share your reading interests, whether it's family, close friends, neighbors, or coworkers. By pooling resources and organizing a small reading circle, you can collectively build a shared library without anyone having to bear the full cost.
Hereâs how it works:
Each member contributes a small amount of money to purchase physical books or invest in a shared subscription to an e-reading platform.
Physical books are rotated among members so everyone gets a chance to read each title. After one person finishes, the book is passed to the next reader in the group.
If you're sharing access to an e-book or audiobook subscription, you can coordinate reading times or take turns accessing the account, depending on the platformâs sharing policy.
You not only save a significant amount of money but also become part of a close-knit community that shares ideas, book recommendations, and discussions.
5. Use Amazon Prime Reading and First Reads
If you're an Amazon Prime member, youâre not just getting free shipping and streaming, you also have access to Prime Reading, a valuable but often overlooked perk that can help you save money on books. Prime Reading includes a rotating selection of Kindle eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and comics that you can borrow and read at no extra cost. It works across all devices using the free Kindle app, so you donât need a Kindle device to enjoy the content.
Another major benefit is Amazon First Reads, a program where Prime members get early access to one newly released book each month before itâs officially available to the public. You can download one free title from a curated selection of editorsâ picks, while additional books can be purchased for just $1.99. These features allow you to enjoy premium content without paying for separate subscriptions or purchasing individual books. If youâre already paying for Amazon Prime, taking full advantage of Prime Reading is a smart and cost-effective way to expand your personal library.
6. Shop Used Book Websites
Buying second-hand books online is one of the smartest ways to build your library while keeping costs low. Used book websites offer an incredible selection of titles ranging from recent bestsellers to rare and out-of-print editions, at a fraction of the retail price. Many of these platforms also offer worldwide shipping, frequent discounts, and seasonal promotions, making them an ideal option for budget-conscious book lovers.
Shopping for pre-owned books not only helps you save money but also supports a more sustainable and eco-friendly reading habit. By giving books a second life, you reduce the demand for new printing, lower your carbon footprint, and support circular economy practices.
Popular and trusted used book websites include:
ThriftBooks â Offers free shipping on orders over a certain amount, plus a rewards program.
Better World Books â Supports global literacy programs with every purchase.
AbeBooks â Features rare and collectible books from sellers around the world.
Book Depository â Known for free international shipping and broad title availability.
World of Books â UK-based seller offering a wide range of genres at low prices.
7. Watch for Sales at Major Retailers
Newly released books often come with premium pricing due to high demand, especially for bestsellers, educational titles, and trending genres. However, within a few months, prices typically drop, making patience a smart money-saving strategy. Many major online and physical book retailers frequently offer seasonal sales, clearance deals, bundle offers, and promo codes that can significantly reduce your overall spending. Retailers regularly discount books during events like Black Friday, Back-to-School season, Prime Day, and holiday clearance sales.
Educational publishers and academic book suppliers also run periodic discounts, especially around the start or end of school semesters. To stay ahead of the curve, consider subscribing to newsletters or joining loyalty programs offered by these retailers. This way, youâll be the first to know about upcoming sales, exclusive discount codes, or limited-time offers. Many newsletters also include personalized recommendations and early access to special deals, perfect for building your book collection on a budget.
To maximize your savings, you can also use Amazon vouchers and promo codes from Saving Says UK, which feature regularly updated discounts on a variety of book genres and categories.
8. Follow Book Deal Newsletters and Social Media Pages
One of the easiest and most effective ways to find free or heavily discounted books is by following book deal newsletters and social media pages dedicated to book promotions. A growing number of book influencers, reviewers, publishers, and deal-curation websites actively share daily or weekly deals on eBooks, audiobooks, and print editions, often including exclusive promo codes or limited-time offers you wonât find elsewhere. By subscribing to book deal newsletters, youâll receive personalized recommendations based on your reading preferences, straight to your inbox.
These services highlight price drops, free eBook promotions, and even pre-order discounts. On social media, follow book-focused Instagram pages, Twitter/X accounts, TikTok creators (especially under #BookTok), and Facebook groups that specialize in sharing deals and giveaways. Many influencers partner directly with authors or publishers to promote early-bird discounts or exclusive bundles, great for discovering hidden gems at a fraction of the price. Whether you're a casual reader or an avid collector, staying connected with these communities ensures you never miss out on great deals, while also introducing you to books you might not have discovered on your own.
Final Thoughts
Books are a deep sea of knowledge, they can be your best companions, guides, and pool of knowledge better than anybody else, but they donât need to cost a fortune. By tapping into nearby libraries, joining free communities, and subscribing to newsletters, you can have access to great reads without costing you an arm. Embrace modern digital options, pool resources with your friends and similar mindset, and stay alert to deals.
Whether youâre nurturing your reading habit or purposely looking for a book, without overspending, you can enjoy a steady flow of wonderful reads.
Happy reading.
FAQ's
Q. What are the best ways to save money on books?
Use local libraries, shop used book websites, follow book deal newsletters, and explore free e-book apps like Libby and Kindle.
Q. Are there free apps for reading books legally?
Yes, apps like Libby, Hoopla, and Kindle offer free access to thousands of books through libraries or free Kindle selections.
Q. Can I share eBook subscriptions with others?
Yes, many platforms like Kindle Unlimited and Audible allow limited sharing or account access within a household.
Q. Are used book websites reliable?
Yes, reputable sites like ThriftBooks offer quality used books at discounted prices.
Q. How do I find out when books go on sale?
Subscribe to newsletters from major retailers or follow book deal pages and influencers on social media for real-time updates.
