Finding a really
good book is always exciting. Finding a good deal on a really good book is even
more exciting! I love saving money as much as a coupon shopper loves a BOGO
deal. But, it's not always about getting a book cheaper than the big box store
price. Sometimes it's about finding your favorite author's book in a bookstore
or supporting a local book shop. I also love the feeling of supporting a
mission such as Embrace Books and Little Free Libraries where sometimes, you
give more books than you get. Instead, what you get in return is a sense of joy
and happiness much like the feeling of finding a really good book.
I've compiled a list, in no specific order, of my favorite places to look for books, some of which are free or almost free, some online and some that are in West Michigan (shop local, y'all). Enjoy!
1. Little Free Libraries
I recently discovered that LFL has an app! Did you know that? Wherever you travel you can easily find a Little Free Library. How awesome! I have friends that take books on vacation, find a LFL and swap out the book. Then, your new-to-you book becomes a souvenir to bring back home or read while you vacay.
I love discovering the little free libraries because the entire thing is an adventure. Like finding a geocache! Each one is unique and you never know what's inside. The adventure is just as fun as finding something/a book worth keeping.
2. Local Bookstores
My favorite thing about local bookstores is imagining the heart and soul that the shop owner puts into their selections, the style, the cute bookish gifts. I love supporting local so supporting local and getting a book to read is a win win.
The Bookman in Grand Haven, sits right next to Morning Star Cafe. On special mornings when we splurge on breakfast we'll swing into the Bookman with full bellies and coffee in hand to browse their books (and take a few home too.)
3. Embrace Books
If you follow my social media you might've seen me mention this non-profit before. I've not only had the opportunity to score free books but also I've volunteered here and got a behind the scenes, up close and center look at how the fabulous people and volunteers make it all happen. Embrace Books' mission is to get books into everyone's hands and ultimately that mission has helped improved literacy scores in Muskegon. It's so brilliant! It truly inspired me to do more and be better.
4. Dollar Stores
Because Dollar Tree gets roll off products from Target you can find some pretty good books here. I recently picked up Under The Southern Sky by Kristy Woodson Harvey. There were several books of all different genres that looked equally as interesting. All for just $1.25!
5. Book Sales
Book sales are a unique experience in themselves. I attended one at a Grand Rapids library (they have 6, by the way) and browsed tables and tables of books. I was grateful to browse self help books, mystery and romance. They were nicely organized as well. The books were $2.00 to 5 cents. I always have an eye out for book sales because I love a gently used book!
6. Book Outlet Online
Whenever possible I choose to shop local but sometimes when you find a good deal you just have to hit the check out button, especially when books are $10 and under. My recent order was all books under $5 each. One of my neighbors introduced me to Book Outlet and every so often I hit 'Check Out' on a few good titles at a great price. Do I sound like an advertisement? Oops! One more thing: You can also earn rewards at Book Outlet and I'm a big fan of rewards programs.
So, which way to shop is your favorite? Out of these 6 ways to shop for books which do you think you'll check out? Whether it's opening the door of a local bookstore or a Little Free Library enjoying reading a book is always the goal.
