Kind of like rock, paper, scissors. When looking for a new read, which path do you take? The library, whether paper or e-book, or do you buy new or used? I rarely buy paper books new, unless it’s a new release I’m dying to get my hands on. I hit Amazon and search their used inventory, though recently I’ve also discovered Thriftbooks or Half Price Books.
I try and base it on the topic – if it’s something I’ll refer back to or I’m trying to learn about, it’s always paper. I can flag pages with sticky notes, underline or highlight. I have an easier time finding and retaining information when I can flip actual pages rather than swipe. (IDK, it’s just me. Maybe it’s an old habit since I didn’t grow up in the electronic age.)
If it’s fiction or anything I’m reading for pleasure, I look for either a used paper or Kindle copy. Used paper is usually cheapest, but you wait for delivery. It’s nice to have that instant gratification of downloading an ebook and being able to dive right in. But it’s also nice to have that copy in your hands and on your shelf! That used book smell. Since I’ve discovered #bookstagram and #booksofinstagram, paper books make more interesting photo subjects.
Not to mention, sometimes you get an added bonus! I found this bookmark from 1974 tucked in my used copy of The Fall of the House of Usher. Thank you, Thriftbooks!
I do enjoy using Hoopla (my library e-reader app) though I’ve found their selection a bit limited. Seems I rarely find what I’m looking for when I search to find a certain title, but I have found interesting titles that I’ve saved to my Favorites. And again, a free, instant download! Titles go back automatically after 2 weeks, so you have to reborrow them if you don’t finish in time. And if I love the book I can always purchase a paper copy to keep.
Buying Kindle copies? They’re typically cheaper than paper, but I like the feel of a real book too. Kindle copies are great when traveling though, since you can load up your device with lots of ebooks. They’re also good for reading in low light. I keep my tablet next to my bed or under my pillow – if I can’t sleep I fire it up and read a few chapters under the covers, like a kid with a flashlight and a comic book. Or I use my booklight, but it’s not as easy to maneuver like swiping to turn a page.
BTW, I didn’t learn about Rock, Paper, Scissors until well into my adult years. Eenie, meenie, minie mo was how we made decisions!
So what say you? How do you determine in which format to purchase a book? Are you mixed like me or do you stick with ebooks or paper?