Reading for Fun: Not Just for Dorks Anymore

If there is one thing I learned from my days of watching Levar Burton blow my little mind with the wonderful world of books, is that reading is spelled F-U-N. Twenty years of required reading and book reports undid some of his teachings, but in my current hardcore Broke-Ass state of being I am ready to ride the reading rainbow once again! Reading is a FREE activity as-is, but I’m here today to learn you some of the ways to make it even more fun and fancy FREE. But don’t take my word for it.

1. Visit your local library

This one my seem like a given, but it’s easy to forget that within five miles of your residence there is most likely a big building full of books that are available to you and yours for FREE. I can relate to the obsession of buying books like they’re going out of style, but in the spirit of Spring Cleaning ditch your book hoarding habits and start borrowing your written materials.

2. Swap It

There are couple different swapping systems out there, but the one I’ve heard good things is PaperBackSwap. After posting books that you’re willing to swap you get credits to get books you want from others. Once you get the book you can keep it forever, or put it back up to swap. It seems like a pretty sweet deal and the only thing you have to pay for is postage when you send them out. You could also organize a swap amongst friends.

3. Talk amongst yourselves

I cannot personally attest to this one, but I’ve heard book clubs can be fun. I somehow equate reading with a deadline to reading for school, and that takes the fun out of it for me, but my roommate has a monthly club, and they always seem to be having a good time. Being able to discuss what you’re reading ads another element of fun and creates a sweet activity for a Tuesday evening. Make a night of it, have a potluck and enjoy!

4. Reading with the stars

If you’re hip to the latest books and authors you will surely enjoy the plethora of mostly FREE readings happening all over at all times. Sign up for your favorite book store’s newsletter and stay up to date on the upcoming readings and appearances. There’s nothing quite as nerdy as getting star struck when you hear your favorite author reading in person.

Photos from: scrapetv.com, i.buyoly.com