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Everyone I know is on a budget this season, and, unless you’re purchasing gifts for collectors or something that is a keepsake for some other reason (and for a book lover those reasons could be many and esoteric), there is no reason not to make bargain books the place you go when shopping. It used to be that the bargain bins–and they were often bins–were piled with banged up, torn and elderly texts that were more suited to trash heap than treasure hunt. You may find similar bins in used book stores today, but in most retailers the selection is pretty strong. Coffee table books, astrology, history, story collections, classics, and children’s books make an especially strong showing, but you’ll also find a lot of remainders from best selling authors. And to sweeten the deal, gift wrapping is typically free at bookstores, although some have charitable organizations asking for donation for the service during the holidays.

Another way to spend less and support your local economy is to find a great used bookstore in your area. The good ones will be picky about the condition of their stock, and often carry new books as well. You get more for less, keep the money in the area, and perhaps make the acquaintance of a fellow booklover as well.

Amazon.com has great prices for books, still some of the lowest on new editions, but I always wait until I’m ready to spend $25 to get the free shipping. If I pay for shipping, the price cut isn’t that remarkable. Overstock.com has great deals on books and a small flat shipping rate, but the selection is pretty limited; like the bargain tables, though, if they have what you want, it’s a great deal.

If cost is a negligible factor, I would wholeheartedly encourage you to find a local independent bookseller, though. Independents, as we know, struggle against the giants and the discount stores during the best of times, and these are not the best of times.

In closing, here are a few of my favorites:

Stacey’s - San Francisco, CA
Powell’s - Portland, OR
Avid Reader - Sacramento, CA
Upstart Crow - San Diego, CA
Firehouse Books & Espresso Bar - Beaufort, SC

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