One pitfall of frequent reading is the damage that it can do to your budget. Being tempted to purchase those new and interesting titles- so easily and quickly delivered to your doorstep from the seemingly unlimited internet bookstores- is much too easy. The antidote to some of that spending is to become a "power user" of your local public library.
Often, on first glance, the collection at your local branch seems meager. However, what is available is much more than meets the eye. After getting a library card (itself an often neglected step, even by frequent readers), visit your region's online library catalogue. After finding your desired titles, you will usually be given the option of placing a hold, and of having the title delivered to your nearest library location as soon as it becomes available. Suddenly, the online bookstore experience is nearly replicated on the library website. The downside is that you may need to wait for popular titles. However, the disadvantage seems small compared to the joy of requesting any title which piques your interest, with no negative budgetary implications whatsoever. As a bonus, DVDs and CDs can also be requested. For those with an e-reader, may libraries now offer online e-book collections, both in print and audiobook formats.
When deciding whether to purchase or borrow a book, an important criteria is whether the book will be a long-term addition to your home library. A book that is likely only to be read once- often true of fiction and many "of the moment" bestsellers"- is best borrowed rather than bought. Borrowing can also help in making good decisions about what titles are worth purchasing. An interesting title that proves to be a less than interesting read can be discarded guilt-free.
The library can be an excellent source of "impulse reads". For a frugal and varied reading experience, instead of searching an online bookstore, try searching your local library.
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