I’ve spent the past couple of weeks talking about how I read so much, but one aspect that’s critical to reading a lot that I haven’t covered is how to do so affordably. While I wish I had a never-ending book budget, like most people, I have other things I need to spend money on beyond books. I can easily read 10 full books over a month, so to be able to do so without breaking the bank, there are a few key things I’ve started doing that have helped ensure that I don’t need to sacrifice the quantity or quality of the books that I consume. 

Here are 6 key ways that you can read as much as you want without completely breaking the bank:

1. Use your public library!

I can’t emphasize this one enough: use your public library. Not only does it show support for a public service that, in my view, is completely critical, but it’s also a great resource for accessing free books.

My local library isn’t amazing as I live in a relatively small place, so I leverage the Libby app, which provides me with my whole province’s catalogue of digital and audiobooks. Sometimes there’s a wait on more popular books or new releases, but there’s always something available that I can take in while I wait. 

2. Check out your local thrift stores

Used bookstores are obvious, but not always available depending on where you are. Thrift stores, however, are usually widely available and often have hidden gems when it comes to books. 

If you’re willing to do some digging and don’t mind sifting through approximately 487953 copies of Twilight, now and then you can find some real gems at your local Value Village. If your budget is tight but you still want a new read, I heavily recommend checking out your local thrift stores to see what’s available.

3. Used book apps like Pango books

I can recognize that shopping at used bookstores and thrift shops can be hit or miss. Sometimes I’ll find something great, but I often come up empty. Luckily, there are now used book apps as well like Pango Books that allow you to access a much wider inventory of used books. If I’m looking for something specific or a relatively popular new title, I’ll often check Pango to see what’s available and if I can get it more affordably than buying it new.

4. Leverage your friends and family for book swaps

This one relies on having readers in your inner circle, but if you do, organize a book swap! Not every book I buy is one I consider a keeper, so swapping with friends for other books I want to read can help me access more.

If you’re not prepared to part with your books, organize a borrow exchange. At any given time, I have several books in my physical TBR that are on loan from my friends while they have copies of mine as well. 

5. Apply for Advanced Reader Copies (ARCs)

Do you already review the books that you read? If so, why not exchange those reviews for free books? You can use platforms like Net Galley to apply for ARCs from popular and underrated authors and publishers, and in exchange, you just have to provide a review of the book you’ve read. I only recently started using Net Galley, but I wish I’d started sooner!

6. Try Kindle Unlimited

If you have a Kindle, Kindle Unlimited is an affordable option to access a huge amount of books for just $11.99 a month. I know a lot of people aren’t huge proponents of supporting such a big company like Amazon, but Kindle Unlimited is home to a lot of independent authors, so I’ve found it can still be a good tool to support the writers I love most and ensure that they get paid, even if I’m not buying a physical edition of all of their books. 

Leveraging even one of these tactics can help you spread your book budget a lot farther. Is there a specific tip or trick that you have for collecting more books affordably? Comment below!