Anyone who loves to read knows the pleasure of diving into new stories and knowledge. But let's be honest, the price of books can weigh on your wallet. Often, we find ourselves postponing a purchase or even stopping reading because of a tight budget. I myself have been there, wishing I had access to more titles without compromising my finances.
The good news is that there's a universe of possibilities for those who want to get books without spending a dime! Yes, it's entirely possible to build an incredible library, full of the works you love, using smart and accessible methods.
In this article, you will discover 23 tried and tested ways to get free books, both online and physical. Get ready to expand your literary horizons and save a lot of money!
1. Get a library card
Having a library card is the first step to a world of free reading. In addition to being able to borrow physical books, most public libraries offer access to digital platforms like Libby and OverDrive, where you can download ebooks and audiobooks directly to your device. Many libraries also host events, book clubs, and even give away books on special occasions. It's a valuable and often underestimated resource!
2. Participate in library reward programs
Some libraries encourage reading with reward programs. By reaching reading goals or participating in challenges, you can earn physical books, prizes, or even coupons. Check if your local library offers something similar and how you can sign up to take advantage of these benefits.
3. Use the Libby app
Libby is a fantastic app that connects directly with your public library. With it, you can borrow free ebooks and audiobooks using just your library card. It's super easy to use and allows you to read or listen on your smartphone, tablet, or e-reader.
4. Use the OverDrive app
Like Libby, OverDrive is another popular platform for accessing your library's digital collection. In addition to books, many libraries offer digital magazines and comics through OverDrive, further expanding your free reading options.
5. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library
If you have young children (ages 0-5), Dolly Parton's Imagination Library is a must-have program. It sends a free physical book by mail to the child's home every month. It's a wonderful initiative to encourage a love of reading from an early age and build a children's library at no cost.
6. Swap books at Little Free Libraries
Little Free Libraries are small community boxes scattered in various places, where people can take a book and leave another. It's a simple and charming concept that promotes the exchange and access to reading freely and spontaneously. Keep an eye out for these boxes in your neighborhood!
7. Join Buy Nothing groups
"Buy Nothing" groups are online communities (usually on Facebook) focused on donating and exchanging items. You can find a group in your area and ask for books you want or offer those you no longer need. It's a great way to get books and also practice conscious consumption.
8. Try BookCrossing
BookCrossing is a global movement where people "release" books in public places for others to find, read, and, in turn, "release" them again. You can register your books on the BookCrossing website and track their journey around the world. It's a literary adventure!
9. Use Project Gutenberg
Project Gutenberg is a vast digital library that offers free access to over 60,000 ebooks in the public domain. You can find classics of literature, reference works, and much more, all available for download in various formats.
10. Explore the Open Library
Open Library is another incredible initiative that aims to create a web page for every book ever published. It functions as a digital library, allowing you to "borrow" digital books for a limited time, including millions of copyrighted titles.
11. Look for free books on Amazon Kindle
Amazon Kindle has a section of free books that is constantly updated. You can find ebooks in various genres, from classics to works by independent authors. Keep an eye out for promotions and titles that are offered for free for a limited time.
12. Take advantage of Amazon First Reads
If you are an Amazon Prime subscriber, you can take advantage of Amazon First Reads. Every month, Amazon selects a few titles that have not yet been released and allows subscribers to choose one to download for free before the official release. It's a great way to discover new authors and genres.
13. Try Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited offers unlimited access to millions of ebooks and thousands of audiobooks for a monthly subscription. However, Amazon frequently offers a free trial period. Take advantage of this period to read as many books as you can at no cost.
14. Check out BookBub
BookBub is a service that sends daily email alerts about free or heavily discounted ebooks. You can customize your genre preferences and receive notifications only about the books that really interest you. It's an excellent tool for finding literary bargains.
15. Trade books on PaperBackSwap
PaperBackSwap is an online platform where you can trade your physical books with other readers. You list the books you want to trade and, in exchange, receive credits to request books from other members. You only pay the shipping cost to send your books.
16. Ask friends and family
Don't underestimate the power of a good conversation! Many friends and family members have books lying around at home that they would be happy to lend or even donate. Make a list of the books you would like to read and ask if anyone has them to lend you.
17. Attend book fairs and literary events
Book fairs, literary festivals, and cultural events often have stands that give away free books, samples, or promotional items. Keep an eye on the cultural calendar of your city and take advantage of these opportunities.
18. Earn books by writing reviews
Some platforms and publishers offer free books in exchange for honest reviews. If you enjoy writing and have good critical thinking skills, this can be an excellent way to get new titles and still share your opinion with other readers.
19. Sign up for Book Rebel
Book Rebel is a website that connects authors with readers willing to provide feedback on their books. By signing up, you can receive free ebooks in exchange for a review. It's a way to discover new talent and help independent authors.
20. Create a book review blog
If you are passionate about books and love to share your opinions, creating a book review blog can open doors. Publishers and authors often send free books to bloggers in exchange for promotion. In addition, you can monetize your blog with affiliate programs and other strategies.
21. Explore universities and open courses
Some universities and open course platforms offer free access to study materials, including textbooks and academic articles. Platforms like OpenStax and MIT OpenCourseWare are great examples for those seeking knowledge in various fields.
22. Use points and reading apps
There are apps that reward you for reading or for performing other activities. By accumulating points, you can exchange them for books, vouchers, or other benefits. Search for "reward apps for reading" to find available options.
23. Join book clubs and community swaps
Book clubs are great for discussing books and, often, for exchanging titles with other members. In addition, some communities organize swap meets or events where you can bring books you no longer want and pick up others in return.
Extra Block – FAQ or Curiosities
Where can I find free physical books?
You can find free physical books in public libraries, Little Free Libraries, Buy Nothing groups, book fairs and literary events, through exchanges with friends and family, or by participating in library reward programs.
How do I find free books on Kindle?
On Amazon Kindle, look for the "Free Books" or "Free Offers" section. Also, keep an eye out for Amazon First Reads (for Prime subscribers) and free trial periods for Kindle Unlimited.
Are there any requirements to participate in children's programs?
For programs like Dolly Parton's Imagination Library, the main requirement is the child's age (usually 0-5 years) and the program's availability in your region. Check the specific requirements of each program.
Conclusion
See how many safe and easy options there are to get free books? From your library card to online platforms and swapping communities, the world of reading is more accessible than ever. There are no more excuses not to expand your library and dive into new stories and knowledge without spending anything!
Which of these ways will you try first? Share in the comments! And if you want other ways to make extra income, check out our guide on how to become a freelancer or our article on the best cashback apps to save money on your purchases.
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