5 Ways to Get Access to Books

Amidst the crisis we are in right now, most people are stuck at home with a lot more free time than
they had before. There are tons of people binging Netflix, baking and cooking new recipes, learning new skills, or trying to find ways to stay more fit and active. I'm lucky to have more time to read than I used to and hopefully catch back up to reaching my reading goal for the year despite having to work from home and take care of a toddler. For now I've got a pretty large stockpile of books that I haven't read yet but others might not be as lucky. Since we can't go to the library or browse the shelves of Barnes and Noble like we used to, here are FIVE WAYS that you can get access to books during this time:


1. Independent Book Stores

Right now it's more crucial than ever for us to support independent bookstores that might be struggling with the economic downturn. A lot of local bookstores are doing free shipping or store pick up options that make purchasing from them even easier. Do some research and find out which bookstores in your area might be offering sales or free shipping so you can get your hands on some books and support small businesses at the same time! My favorite is The King's English here in Salt Lake City and they've been fantastic so far with their customer service. Do what you can to purchase books and keep our bookstores afloat during this time!

2. Overdrive/E-book library

With many people out of work, FREE books might be the best option for you. Despite the fact that most libraries are closed, many are still offering electronic library books through apps like Overdrive or Libby. Kids and students can use SORA (the overdrive app for school-age kids) if they attend a participating school. You can check whether their school uses SORA here. You may need information about your library, a library card number, or a passcode to access this information but most libraries will have the info you need on their webpage. Check it out! They'll have lots of interesting options for books to read and it won't cost you anything. You can still access your favorite library books without going to a physical library!

3. Kindle on Amazon

Because of Covid-19 Amazon is offering an extended free trial for users of Kindle Unlimited. So you can sign up and access free and cheap Kindle e-books that way. Even if you don't own a Kindle, you can download the Kindle App to your phone and read books there. There are a lot of e-books currently discounted on Amazon so you might be able to afford a book that you've had on your TBR list for a while but have just never gotten around to. Take advantage of these great deals and opportunities to get that novel crossed off your list.

4. Netgalley

If you're like me, then you love reading books before they've even come out. Netgalley is a great way to do this. After you've created an account, you can browse books that have been posted by the publisher. The idea is that you'll read them and then review them either on Goodreads or social media so that the book can get some publicity. If this is an arrangement that you think you could handle, check out their website and sign up to start accessing books. I've had the chance to read a lot of books for free because of this and help a lot of authors as they spread the word about their new books coming out!


5. Giveaways!