Man oh man I have not been very good at keeping up with you all since I’ve returned to work. I went from posting multiple time a week to now doing a post every week or so? Its time to get more consistent and you should be seeing me post again at least once a week.
One of my intentions for the new year is to read more. Four weeks in and I’m happy to report I have read 5 books and am working on my sixth/seventh. I really have enjoyed all the reading the past few months. I love being able to dive into different worlds, characters, brains, feelings, experiences and so much. Sometimes its may it’s easier to watch tv but with reading I get the wonder of using my imagination to build up these worlds. It’s been a lot of fun and I’m really loving my reading era.
Its not cheap being a reader
Now let’s be honest, becoming a reader and consuming books at wild rates may not be the most cost friendly. Books can start adding up in price and well, we’re a girlie working on being more mindful with her money in 2024. For example, the 5 books that I have read so far this year are a combined total cost of $70 for physical copies. It would be tad bit cheaper if I bought the kindle versions. Now personally I just can’t keep up money wise with my reading habit. But what had helped me over the past year was utilizing the Libby app and my kindle.
Reading on a budget
What is Libby you may be asking yourself? It’s essentially your local library encompassed in a digital platform. It allows you to access their entire digital content including e-books and audiobooks. Now this has been the key to my rampage reading lately. A couple of reasons why I love the Libby app:
Inexpensive – I am spending way less on books because I can borrow so many for free. Don’t get me wrong I’ll still purchase a book here and there but my spending habits on books has gotten so much better.
User-friendly – the app is super easy to use. Just look up a book and select the borrow option. You can then download the digital version to your kindle or read right within the libby app (great tip if you don have a kindle). Now let’s say you have to hop on a hold list, not a problem. The app will notify you when it’s your turn to check out the book.
Guilt-free DNF books – This has also been a huge plus when enjoying the Libby app. I think we all can agree that we get into a reading slump when we pick up a book, start reading it and just aren’t enjoying it as much as we we want to. There are a few different reason for continuing to read the book but my main one is that if I bought the book, not finishing it would feel like a waste of money. Now, I have no problem adding a book to my Did Not Finish list or DNF list if I’m no longer enjoying the book since I am no longer spending my money on the book. Oh the joys of renting books instead of buying.
Check out your local library
Now head on over to your local library’s website and see if they partner with the Libby app for their digital content. Most libraries will require that you have an active library card. Some may ask that you go to a branch in person to sign up. There are a few that will allow you to sign up virtually.
Let me know what you think and if you have any other tips when it comes to reading on a budget. Thanks for reading! Cheers!!!
