When it comes to book buying, I’m what you’d call a “power shopper“. I’m always looking for ways to get the best deals on books (to support my broke modest lifestyle as a college student🤠). And sometimes my favorite online shopping spot—Amazon—sometimes lets me down.
Recently, I had my eye on a pricey new novel that Amazon was offering at full price. Being the money-savvy shopper I am, this was unacceptable. So I decided to look for alternatives to Amazon for buying books that might offer better deals.
Boy, did I hit the jackpot! After doing a bit of digging around online, I found tons of great websites and stores offering amazing book discounts. From online book clubs to used book stores, the options out there are endless.
And it’s not just about getting a good price. The alternatives that I found for buying books provide unique experiences you won’t find on Amazon. Like this one online store that I found, had an interesting selection of rare and out-of-print books from around the world.
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Why You Shouldn’t Take Amazon’s Word for It: Alternatives to Amazon For Buying Books
As a book-loving college student, I’ve always been an Amazon devotee. After all, it’s quick, reliable and the prices are unbeatable – what more can you ask for?
But recently my stance has been shifting. I’m beginning to realize that there are better alternatives when it comes to buying books. Sure, Amazon makes things easier – but at what cost?
It’s no secret that bookstores have been struggling to compete with Amazon, and many have had to sadly close their doors as a result. So, it’s important that we continue to support bookstores and other online book buying sources so they can thrive and remain an integral part of our bookish community.
For example: Independent bookstores offer not only competitive prices but also support small businesses and indie publishing houses. Plus they give you a chance to discover hidden gems that wouldn’t otherwise be accessible if you were just perusing through your local Barnes & Noble (I still heart♥ Barnes& Noble guys!) or relying solely on Amazon’s algorithm-based recommendations.
Not only is it better for your wallet, but it also helps keep our local literature alive and vibrant! So let’s give a round of applause👏🏻 to all those Indie bookstores out there that offer more than just mass market titles.
Plus, we get to feel good about ourselves every time we purchase a book at one of these stores – and who doesn’t love that?
Related: 25 Best Bookstores Around the World: Take a Literary Adventure
Shopping with smaller vendors isn’t as intimidating or time-consuming as it sounds. They often offer lower prices than Amazon, and by taking the time to do your research you can save even more money with coupon codes and discounts.
So next time you’re searching for your new book online, don’t be too quick to turn to Amazon. Yes, convenience is great. But let’s take a moment to step away from our screens and look at some of the other amazing options out there! You never know what treasures you might find.
Plus, being an ethical book-lover (with a little bit of effort on your part) could be so rewarding!
So, if you’re looking to save some cash or just want to try something new when it comes to buying books, check out these amazon alternatives for buying books and you’re sure to find something worth your while.
Make Your Reading List Count with these Amazing Alternatives to Amazon
Finding alternatives to buying books can be just as exciting as discovering your next read! Here are some ideas:
- IndieBound: This online store is curated by independent bookstores, so you can find a wide selection of books from small publishers. Plus, they offer sales and discounts every month.
- Check out indie bookstores in your area – they often have great prices, discounts and exclusive titles that you wouldn’t find on Amazon.
- ThriftBooks: You can find both new and used books at discounted prices here. They even have their own loyalty program that gives you points for making purchases on the website.
- Book Outlet: This online store has a huge selection of books at deep discounts. They also have special bundles and collections that make it easy to get great deals on multiple books.
- Visit your local library – where you can borrow books for free and connect with other booklovers in the community.
- AbeBooks: This website specializes in rare and out-of-print titles, so you can find some hard-to-find gems here. Plus, they offer free shipping if you make a purchase of $10 or more.
- The Strand: This legendary New York bookstore has been around for nearly 100 years, and now you can shop their selection online. They offer discounts on hardcover books as well as rare finds.
- If you’re looking for a good deal, try searching for second-hand books on sites like eBay or Craigslist.
- Barnes & Noble: This major chain store offers great deals on new releases as well as online exclusives. Plus, you can join their loyalty program for even more savings.
- Sign up for book subscription boxes – these services will send you new titles to read on a regular basis and can be a great way to discover new authors.
- Half Price Books: This popular book store chain offer a wide selection of new and used books at discounted prices. Plus, they often host in-store events and book signings.
- Attend book fairs, conventions, and author readings in your area – these events often have great discounts on popular titles.
- Books a Million: This online bookstore offers discounted books, as well as a loyalty program that rewards you with points every time you make a purchase.
- Valore Books: This online bookstore is great for finding textbooks and other educational materials. They have an extensive selection at low prices, plus they offer free shipping for orders over $50.
- Join book clubs – this is a great way to connect with other readers and get access to recommendations from experts.
- Alibris: If you’re looking for rare or out-of-print titles, this online store has an extensive selection at great prices. They also offer free shipping on orders over $39.
- Thrift stores and used bookstores – often have great deals on books, and you can find rare finds
- Book Depository: This British online store offers great deals on books from around the world. Plus, they offer free international shipping to over 100 countries.
- PeachPit: This store specializes in discounted technical books, as well as computer and electronic titles.
- Look into online book rental services – you can rent books for a fraction of the cost of buying them outright.
- Powell’s Books: This iconic bookstore in Portland, Oregon has a huge selection of used and new books at discounted prices. They also have an outlet store with even more deals.
- Book Boon: This website has a huge selection of PDF books available for free download in multiple languages.
- Library Genesis: If you’re looking for a wide selection of eBooks, this website has it all—from fiction to nonfiction and everything in between. And best of all, they’re all free.
- BookBub: This website specializes in deals on books from all genres, including eBooks. They offer great discounts every day on both new releases and classic titles.
- Google Books: This website has a huge selection of digitized books and magazines, with many titles available for free download. Plus, they also offer audiobooks at discounted prices.
- Friends of the Library: Many communities have a Friends of the Library organization that hosts online book sales. These usually take place once or twice a year, and you can get great deals on books here.
As a booklover, I know how easy it can be to get stuck in the same old purchasing routine. Amazon is my go-to when it comes to books and other items. But there are so many other options out there—and they’re worth exploring!
Shopping around can be a great way to find discounts, rare titles, or even just enjoy a different browsing experience. Whether you’re looking for new releases, classic favorites, rare finds, or just a unique shopping experience, there is something out there for everyone😄!
Alternatives like The Strand and Half Price Books offer discounts on new and used books respectively. Then there’s Alibris for out-of-print gems, Book Depository for international titles, and even websites like Library Genesis and BookBub that offer free downloads and discounts on new releases!
So don’t be afraid to explore the world of books. Shop around and find the perfect place to purchase your next literary adventure!
So go ahead and see what bookstores & other online websites have to offer—you won’t be disappointed.
“When it comes to buying books, Amazon isn’t the only game in town. There are so many wonderful alternatives out there—so why not explore them?”
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