Library Discussion (Why I Love Using the Library!!)

 Hey, fellow book lovers! I'm back with a new post! Today, I want to talk about the library. If you read my previous posts, you'll know that I got rid of most of my book collection, and I mentioned that I wanted to start using the library again. Here's a little bit of backstory: So, I grew up using the library most of my life/reading life. I started using the library since I first learned to read, up until after high school. After that, I stopped using the library for years because I became obsessed with book-buying. I blame BookTube for that, lol! My book-buying got way out of control, especially when I was working at my two bookstore jobs. My physical TBR also got way out of control too, and it really stressed me out. I quit my bookstore job two years ago, and ever since then, my book-buying was under control again. It was my decision last year to get rid of most of my books, and only keep my favorite books. I brought down my physical TBR to like 10 books. I decided around that time, that I didn't want to buy every book that I want to read. Mainly because books are so expensive, and I can't afford to buy new books anymore, but also because, I don't want to own a lot of books anymore, and I wanted my physical TBR to be a small amount. So, that's exactly what I did. Ever since last year, I stopped buying books, and mostly just use the library now. I still have a Kindle TBR, but it's only about 30 books. I use the library all the time now, and I love it!! It's so nostalgic, since I grew up using the library, and I use/go to the library almost every week now. It's been such a blast! I went back to my reading roots. I love going in and seeing the new books that come in! It's the same vibe/feeling as going to the bookstore, but it's free, and I'm saving so much money! It feels like I'm book shopping. I love browsing the shelves, and finding/discovering hidden gems that I wouldn't have discovered otherwise. I'm currently reading this book from the library, and it's a hidden gem! I discovered it while browsing through the mystery section. 

I also love the library because, if my library doesn't have a certain book, I can get it/request it from another library. They ship the book to my library for me to pick up, and put it on hold. I've been doing that a lot lately. It's honestly a game changer for me! It's also fun to see which library the book comes from. I also love using Libby as well. I don't use it as much, because I prefer physical books most of the time, but it's great for ebooks! 

I used to think that you needed to buy books, and own a huge book collection to be considered a "real reader", and that's not true!! You aren't any less of a reader if you use the library and don't buy books. The book community makes it seem like that's the case, but it's not true! I'll only buy a book now if I read it from the library first, and want my own copy. 

I wanted to make a post talking about/appreciating the library, because libraries are amazing, and more people need to use them. I started seeing more booktubers using the library lately, and that makes me happy! We need to normalize using the library more in the book community. I don't judge anyone for buying books, and wanting to own a big book collection. That's great! I'm happy for you! That's just not what I want for myself. Everyone is different, and that's ok! 

Thank you so much for reading! Leave a comment! I would love to have a discussion with you. 

Happy reading!! :)