Buying A Book?
Aug 08 '00
There are times in my life when I want a McDonald's book buying experience. When the internet asks, "What title, author, or ISBN?" and my reply involves a click, and entering my credit card number. For this type of book purchases, I say internet shopping works the best. However, there are times when I want to walk into my favorite book store, browse all of my favorite sections and authors, order a cappucino, and simply soak up the atmosphere. I also experience utter joy when I find a great book while searching through other's junk at a garage sale. For these reason's I will simply have to divide this opinion into different categories and list the best places in each one.
Internet: Order Up!
My three favorite places to order on the internet are Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble(bn.com) and ChristianBook.com. With each of these sites you are able to quickly choose the book(s) you want, enter your credit card, select shipping, and you are finished. These sites also have bargain books, and sometimes they have special events when shipping is free. If you use My Points, Freeride, PointClick or other internet earning programs, you can even get further discounts on your books. I must say that I am fairly loyal to these sites, but I will always be on the lookout for additional places to shop.
Book Stores
When I need an enjoyable book buying experience, I head to Barnes and Noble, Borders Books, or Mardel. At B&N and Borders the ambiance is so relaxing and I can settle in for a few good hours of browsing. This kind of event means "No Children Allowed". Even though most of these stores have children friendly areas, this book time is for mom. I really like the fact that you can touch the books, look at other books within the same subject, and really know what you are buying. The whole family gets to enjoy the trip to Mardel Christian Book Store. While it doesn't have a coffee area, the children's play area is fantastic. They have a large movie viewing area, a Thomas the Tank Engine area, and other toys available. The children enjoy playing and my husband and I take turns looking at the books. Another bonus at Mardel's is that they also carry a variety of office supplies, craft items, collectables, music, teaching supplies, and church supplies. WOW! All in one store.
Bargain Shopping
If you want to find some great deals, you simply have to make time for bargain shopping. I have found great books at garage and estate sales. Check your local newspaper for addresses and dates. Another good bargain place to find books is at thrift stores and consignment shops. Look in your yellow pages for listings and phone numbers. I have bought books in great condition for as little as 25 cents a book. Buying a book for a bargain makes great sense for the avid reader, you get more for your money.
Book Swaps
If you are fortunate to find a book swap, this is a fantastic find. I happen to use the book swap at our local YMCA. On every second and fourth Wednesday of the month, I can bring books to swap and borrow books to read. It is based on the honor system with members of the YMCA. On those Wednesdays I make sure I check out the books after I exercise. It happens to be very convenient.
However you decide to buy your books is up to you, I just say keep reading -- it's good for your mind.
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Epinions.com ID:
julieagee
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Member: Julie Agee
Location: Fort Worth, TX
Reviews written: 9
Trusted by: 5 members
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