How to be a bibliophile and still save money!

These days, it seems like it's not too hard to find a large chain bookstore within a short drive, with thousands of books sitting, waiting, asking for the taking. Coupled with low prices or reasonable discounts, it's pretty easy to see why people would flock to those stores. It's always better to get something on sale.

There's just one slight little issue that could creep up if you're not careful...

You might run out of space.

Looking around my apartment, I realize that I have a lot of books. Not tons, but a fair share. I also know that I don't have a large space to store things, and I certainly don't have enough space for the infinite number of books I'd get if money were no object. And with times being what they are, it's better to try to save money wherever you can.

But what's a girl to do when she wants to read something new but doesn't want to spend the money to buy the book?

It may be a revolutionary idea, I know, but I do have a suggestion.



Here it is.



Are you ready?



Okay.

My grand suggestion is...go to your local library.

This should really be an easy one to explain. First off, if you live in the municipality, libraries are generally free. Granted, it's a book loan, but that could even make the pot sweeter for you. You sign a book out, read it, and then just give it back when you're done, or your loan time is up, whichever comes first. And most libraries let you renew your book loan if you're not done with the book. Some library systems even have online reservation capabilities. Want to call dibs on a book when it gets returned? Hop online and reserve it--when it gets back to the library, it's your turn! Not sure if the library has a book and don't want to drive all the way there to find out? Chances are good that you'll be able to check from the comfort of your own home if and where a book is available. What's not to love about that?

A few weeks ago, I happened to pass my local library on the way to my sister's house. I'd been living in this town with the library within walking distance of where I live, work, and hang out for over 4 years, and I still didn't have a library card. So I walked in, filled out the information they needed, received a nice-sized packet explaining the township system, and walked away the newest resident with a library card. It felt good, and I plan on using my membership to the fullest extent. I hope some other people out there will join me.

Finger on the Pulse

If you like finding out about new music and what songs and artists people have been talking about on the internet, check out We Are Hunted. Seriously, go there now.

It's still in Beta, but I like the design of the site PLUS the fact that you can click on a song and listen to the whole thing. Clicking on an artist or group takes you to a page with updated articles on them, as well as related artists and "charted tunes", so you can listen to some more tracks that have made it on the site. You can look at what's popular by song or artist and for the day, week, and month. It gives you an idea of what people are really talking about vs. what people are kinda talking about, and if you felt so inclined, you could chart and see how things escalate or decline.

All in all, I think it's good stuff, and if you like hearing about new music or knowing what people are talking about--check it out!

Also, if you go, please please PLEASE check out The Kills "Cheap and Cheerful (SebastiAn Remix)"--it's delightfully delicious!