Hey Philly newsletter editor Asha Prihar contributed to this article.
The benefits of books are countless — reading regularly can even help lengthen your lifespan. But books can be expensive, and you know what’s not good for your health? An empty bank account. Here are some tips on where to find affordable books.
Don’t Skip the Library
It might sound obvious, but every time I visit the library it’s much emptier than it should be. The only downside to borrowing books from the library is that you have to return them, but if you’re like me, that might just be the motivation you need to actually read consistently.
If you prefer e-books, you can borrow digital versions of books from the Free Library of Philadelphia through the Libby app and some other services, including K-12 options for the youngins.
Cheaper by the Chapter
You don’t have to pay full price for books. Here are some great options around Philly and online.
You might spot a furry friend at some of Philly’s used book stores. Pictured above is Dr. Pickles at The Book Trader in Old City. (Asha Prihar/City Cast Philly)
Used Book Stores
Philly has many! A non-exhaustive set of suggestions: Find picks below $3 at Book Corner in Fairmount, a range of genres at The Last Word in University City, or books at one-third the cover price at Hilltop Books in Chestnut Hill.
Thriftbooks.com
This organization partners with libraries across the country to find homes for ex-library books for a fraction of the retail price.
Goodwillbooks.com
Your favorite place to buy vintage t-shirts also sells books at a great price.
Better World Books
A user-friendly site with an excellent selection of titles.
Free Books
There’s nothing cheaper than free.
Book Swaps and Buy Nothings
The best way to find books is arguably through fellow bibliophiles. Monitor your neighborhood “buy nothing” group on Facebook for free titles you may find interesting. Also, keep an eye out for book swap events at Tree House Books 👀 (The next one is May 25!)
Little Free Libraries
You’ve probably seen these tiny standalone shelves around the city. They’re a great option, but the product is a gamble, which can either be a delight or a shock, depending on what you find. Find one near you on their interactive map.
Project Gutenberg
Browse from a catalog of more than 70,000 free books with an expired U.S. copyright.
Goodreads
The online social network for books also has a lineup of e-books you can read for free.
📚 Do you have a book you’d like to recommend? Tell us what you’re reading!
