For me, it really depends on the book. If it's a book that I might use for one of the classes I teach, a book I might use for research, I buy a new copy of it. I do this so I can take notes in it, which I'm sure will make some of you gasp since that involves writing in the book, but those books--the books I might use for teaching or for research are, to me, meant to be used that way--interacted with, talked back to, etc. Typically these books get bought through Amazon because they won't necessarily be available through Borders or Barnes and Noble (even online).
If it's a book for pleasure reading where I get the book varies. Sometimes I will purchase the book new, especially if it's one of my favorite authors. Usually, I buy them at Borders because I have their rewards card. I also have a BN card (even though you pay for it yearly), so I'll shop there occasionally for books and CDs.
Other times, I get the books through Paperback Swap so I can first read it and then decide if I want a new hardback copy. Although, sometimes I get lucky and find the hardcover on PBS and in really good condition.
I also buy books at one of several used bookstores here. And because I work in at a University, our faculty lounge is always a great place to exchange books with people. I, along with several other faculty members, regular leave books in the lounge/mailbox room in our department with a "free to a good home" sign above them. So, I both give and obtain books this way. I suppose I should also state that because I work at a University, I get quite a few books free from publishers who try to entice me to use their book for my classes. These are typically textbooks, however, and not necessarily books I will just sit down to read. (Although, I've been known to sit down and read an entire textbook--not just glance through it--when trying to decide whether to use it for a class.)
posted 3 years ago. ( permalink )
