An Avid Reader’s Guide to Book Hunting

For those of us who devour books like candy, the real trick isn’t finding the time to read—it’s finding what we’ll read next. I am up for anything when it comes to reading, from the classics to the latest releases, so I search multiple sources to obtain material. But wherever I’m surrounded by piles of books, I’m in my happy place, and I can easily spend hours wandering through the aisles. Here’s where I do my hunting.

Local Bookstores

Have you heard that after years of decline, brick-and-mortar bookstores are making a comeback? It’s true, and I couldn’t be happier. Apparently, people are getting back into reading, and customers still prefer the experience of browsing through a physical bookstore, sampling books, and socializing, which online shopping can’t replicate. I frequent the Barnes & Noble near my house, but there are also some incredible independent stores in the Phoenix area that I visit on occasion. Bookstores are still my favorite place to pick out my next read.

However, being an avid reader, buying books can become expensive, and I am running out of room in my house for more bookcases. Thankfully, there are many other resources for bookworms like me.

Libraries

A couple of years ago, the city of Goodyear moved its library into a 20,000 sq. foot space in its brand new Civic Center building. There is a fairly good amount of newly released fiction and non-fiction books, and that is where I usually head upon arrival. But I always take my time and go through the aisles to see what else grabs my attention. Passing the kids’ area always reminds me of the time spent with the grandkids at the library near our place in Colorado.

In addition to this vast selection, there are two pretty impressive libraries in our 55 and older community where books are shared. Here, you can take books, magazines, and even puzzles and return them at your convenience.

Used Book Sales and Thrift Stores

There’s something thrilling about stumbling upon an adored classic or long-forgotten novel in a secondhand store. Thrift stores, garage sales, library clear-outs, and used book fairs often yield surprising treasures—and at unbeatable prices. There is an antique mall near us that we like to walk around on occasion, and I always take a look in the book section. It can be time-consuming as they are usually a bit of a mess and in no particular order, but it’s always fun to see what they have.

Online

It’s hard to beat the convenience and variety of Amazon for buying books. With a few clicks, I can have a book at my doorstep in a day or two—or instantly download an ebook. I visit the site when I need a specific title or want to read reviews. Its algorithmic recommendations can be useful in finding a future read, but I rarely browse, like I would in a library or bookstore. I enjoy listening to audiobooks from Spotify or Audible while I’m at the gym or just taking a walk, although I prefer reading to listening whenever possible.

Friends & Family

It’s great to have other book lovers close by to swap with. Friends and family sometimes introduce me to books that I’d never pick up myself, expanding my reading horizons. Reading and discussing the same books can spark meaningful conversations, and it’s fun to hand someone a book that I loved and hear their thoughts afterward. Sometimes the books are returned to the owner, but more often, they are just passed to someone else looking for a great read… and on and on.

Final Thoughts

There are tons of places for book lovers to find their next favorite read! I’ve shared some of my go-tos, which all have their own unique charm and experience. But there are many more resources out there. So explore widely, follow your curiosity, and let your next favorite book find you. Happy reading!