Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Tiara Talk: Used Books


So you guys may have noticed that in my weekly vlogs there is a fairly consistent stream of used books. I know a lot of people have issues with used books because they are not always in the best of condition, they be overly concerned with where they have been previously, or any other number of reasons. 

Personally I feel like its a rescue mission. Kind of like taking animals in from a shelter or off the streets. I see these books at my library's sales and used bookstores that are either well-loved (meaning you can see they've been worn through frequent readings) or that have been abused and deserve to "retire" in semi-peace. For these reasons I scoop them up where I can give them some tender love and care.

I also happen to love the look of weathered classics. Like the copy of Emerson's Complete Works I picked up last week at the library's sale. You can just feel the love radiating from the volume.

So, how do you guys feel about used books? Are you strictly after that new book smell or is there something about a well-loved book that just draws you in? If you aren't a fan, why?

10 comments:

  1. The used books I get look new so I don't have a problem with it. If it is worn, then yeah I may have some issues with it.

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  2. I'm not that bothered about how a book looks really, so I get used books a bit. Most of my books end up looking pretty ragged anyway from being carted around in bags. But I DO hate it when I buy a used book online and it says "excellent" or "good" condition and is a total mess when it arrives. that really bugs me

    The Cait Files

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  3. A lot of mine are the same way, Arianne. And if I'm being used for a friend I always make sure to get them as pristine as possible but for myself I love the well-loved look. To each their own I guess.

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  4. Same here, Cait! And for the prices you can get used books I totally don't mind getting them that way. I do agree though, I hate it when they are marked one way and you receive them another. I got one book used that said it was in excellent condition and when I got it the book looked like someone had stabbed a pencil through the center.

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  5. I love me a good used book. I'd prefer if it wasn't too physically damaged, but I can deal with a little worn.

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  6. So glad to see someone else on Team Used!

    ...okay that sounds awful but still. xD

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  7. I LOVE USED BOOKS!!!! My recycle book store has a TON of great YA finds :) I can get about 10 books for $40 in one trip and I LOVE IT!

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  8. I usually score more adult used books though my used bookstores occasionally get me a YA gem. The website gohastings is my go to for used YA books. I love the savings. I get to read so many more books because of it. Thank you for chiming in, Anna! :]

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  9. haha.. *ehem* and who recommended Go Hastings to you? lol
    it's funny how adult books are "well-loved" just based on your description

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  10. You did in all of your amazingness, Arianne.

    Not just adult books, young adult and children's too.

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