Locally

• 1). Start your search right where you live. Most communities have used book stores that carry every genre of literature and sell books a reduced cost compared to new books.
  
  
• 2). Try your local thrift stores and don't forget Goodwill. They offer merchandise of every kind and the prices are usually reasonable. If you have donations ready to go, take them along and combine two tasks in one trip.
  
  
• 3). Use the Internet. There are several great sources for books. On major book retailers' web sites, you can narrow your search by genre and author and can even search for a specific title. In addition, many sellers of used books have web sites.
  
  
• 4). Bid for books on Ebay or other online auctions. You can search the site for a specific title or author. Many sellers on Ebay offer the item at a set price so you don't have to engage in a bidding war.
  
  
• 5). Check your local classified ads under the merchandise section. Try freecycle.org. It's a free website that allows people to offer items for free of charge. You can ask for e-mail updates and you'll receive several e-mails a day to let you know what is available. If you use freecycle, try to participate on the giving end as well.