How to Build a Library on a Budget

Starting a book collection is one of the most exciting and rewarding hobbies for any book lover.

But building up a collection packed with great reads can be unbelievably expensive, especially if you don't know where to look.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to build a fantastic book collection without breaking the bank.

Mine and my girlfriend's collection. At what point does it become hoarding?

Start with Charity Shops and Second-Hand Bookstores

Charity shops are absolute treasure troves for affordable books. In the UK, organisations like Oxfam, British Heart Foundation, and Cancer Research have shops that are often brimming with novels donated by avid readers. You’ll be surprised at the selection, often finding nearly-new or classic titles for a fraction of their retail price. It’s also worth checking local second-hand bookstores, as these often carry rare finds and sometimes even out-of-print editions.

Don’t forget to ask the staff about discounts or bargain sections—some stores have dedicated shelves for cheap second hand books.

Explore Online Marketplaces

Online platforms such as eBay, Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace offer excellent deals on books. Often, sellers list multiple books for a small price, especially when they’re clearing out space. To get the best deals, try searching for “book bundles” or “fiction job lot” and narrow down by genre or author if you have preferences.

Speak to your local library, schools, and universities.

When libraries make space for new books, they often host sales where you can buy the books they're replacing. These books are typically well-kept and have plenty of life left in them. It’s also common to find popular fiction titles in good condition. Check with your local library if they have any books they're getting rid of or would consider selling.

The same goes for schools, colleges, and universities. While they may not refresh their books regularly I managed to pick up over 20 books for free from my time working in an Further Education college when their library picked up new stock.

Sign Up for a Book Subscription Box Trial

Many book subscription services offer free or discounted trial periods. While you’ll need to keep an eye on cancellations to avoid recurring charges, this can be a great way to snag a brand-new book or two at a reduced price.

Use Sales and Utilise Loyalty Programmes

Finally, if you're determined to pick up brand new copies of books it’s worth keeping an eye on seasonal sales on from major retailers like Waterstones, or WHSmith. Follow bookstores on social media to keep up to date with any potential sales.

Major retailers often run loyalty programs, Waterstones for example have a points system called Waterstones Plus. You get a stamp for every £10 you spend every 10 stamps gets you a £10 voucher. You also get access to exclusive sales and information about new books and offers. If you're a student you can sign up to get an extra 5% off all purchases

Remember building a personal book collection on a budget is all about patience and being resourceful. But where possible try to support independent bookshops and charity shops before turning to sites like Amazon.

Happy collecting!