Laugh Lines

Great Book Deals

I do have a weakness in life: books. When I go to yard sales or flea markets, I eventually find my way to those cheap books that are just too good to pass up. The other day I knew I was in real trouble. The local paper and posters in every store and coffee shop announced that the local "Friends of the Library" group was planning a book sale. These wonderful seniors volunteer in our small town library on a regular basis and many of them have served as librarians for the city and school district over the years. They haul out tons of old books for a big sale to raise funds for the purchase of new library books.

First, I found an old dog training manual. I ignored my sister's eye rolling and bought this treasure to help me with ongoing difficulties with my one-year-old Chihuahua. I will admit the book is well written, but my sister was right. "Ellie" isn't the one who needs training. I need to look for a book that trains dog owners.

I found four books that were written back in 1904, and was mesmerized by their art, style and the thought that they had been read by many people through all those years. It was like a Hallmark moment with soft music playing when I paid for them and carried them to the house. I paid 50 cents for each of these treasures. For a book lover, these were a real find! It only took a few hours to realize these books were perfect fodder for my new eBay® dreams. I do love books, but I secretly hoped these old ones were worth a small fortune.

Out of thousands of academic works, historical marvels, fictional finds and inspirational wonders, I found a book that just thrilled me. This book is all about odd household remedies. The title, Polish Your Furniture with Panty Hose: and Hundreds of Offbeat Uses for Brand-Name Products let's you know what kind of a find I had uncovered. Written in 1995, this hilarious book with a '50s style cover makes me giggle. Seriously, I have already learned some amazing important information, and no one can tell me that I don't know how to find great book deals to purchase with those quarters I saved. Now, if I can just afford to ship them across the country, they can be added to the zillion other books that are great book deals at someone else’s sale.

Pam and Kathy’s 7 Tips for Book Buying

Decide in advance how much money you want to invest in books.
Try to determine what style of books you want to collect and which books you will borrow instead.
Check online sources and numerous bookstores to compare book prices before buying.
Before you buy, determine if the information or enjoyment can be gained by borrowing a library book.
Develop good friendships with other readers and work out a plan to share good books with each other.
Find places that will buy back used books so you can use those funds for new reads.
Buying books with a friend will often stop you from unnecessary purchases if you pay attention to those rolling eyes and giggles.