Consuming Sustainably as a Reader
It’s pretty safe to assume that most people strive to make more sustainable choices around their consumption. But, in a world where customers are consuming more than ever, huge conglomerates take advantage with low price points and quick delivery times, and it’s hard to go against the grain. Purchasing brand new and convenient becomes a habit, something that is expected and therefore the massive billionaire owned companies become the only ones able to fulfil this expectation. Any other option feels like it would be more expensive — less comfortable.
This year I have set myself the goal of not buying any new books — especially not from places like Am*zon, who perpetuate the problem of ever growing consumerism. In order to do this and maintain that new book dopamine hit, I’ve been trying out several ways to read more sustainably:
Buying Second-Hand
Probably the most obvious answer: buy books second hand. I have been so pleasantly surprised by the calibre of second hand books I’ve managed to secure since I began book blogging. I’ve used several different avenues to buy second hand books and have found that while charity shops are the least reliable, they are certainly the most satisfying when finding an absolute gem. I recently found copies of The Secret History by Donna Tartt, Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors, and One Day by David Nicholls in my local charity shops. You never know what you’re going to come across, but it’s like hitting gold when you come out with a book you’ve been looking for.
I also frequent the online second hand options. Vinted has recently become one of my favourite places to buy books. I recently snagged a pristine Illumicrate edition of The Principle of Moments by Esmie Jikiemi-Pearson from Vinted - possibly my new favourite possession? The dreaminess of Vinted is that you can also bundle buy, meaning you can purchase multiple items from one seller for a discounted price. It can take a bit of raking through, but you occasionally come across a seller who is un-hauling more than one book that you’ve got your eye on. If you’re thinking of clearing out some of your old books to make room for some of your new second-hand buys, it’s also super simple to sell on Vinted - honestly a win-win.
AbeBooks is a service that sells such a range of texts - rare books, text books, art, and fiction of course. It’s a great place to search for rare first editions, and they also have plenty of affordable second hand fiction and non-fiction available. AbeBooks is a platform from which you can buy from sellers all across the world. You can also become a seller on this site. I’ve found it most valuable for non-fic books, but they have absolutely everything.
WOB (previously World of Books) is another site with a wonderful selection of second hand titles for reduced prices. Like AbeBooks, WOB have a huge variety of books and other media available, but everything WOB sell comes from books they’ve collected themselves; from excess stock in charity shops, to books put on sites such as Ziffit and Sell Back Your Book. Their goal is to rehome these perfectly good books.
Please also think about where you get you e-readers from! Perhaps the next time you want an upgrade you could look at second hand options from the likes of Preloved or BackMarket - I got my iPad from BackMarket and they’re a brilliant service.
Some of my recent second hand buys
The Library
I love the library. I believe it is the most invaluable resource in society, and the fact that it remains free to use proves that education and access to knowledge is something everyone has the right to. The library is often a sanctuary, and a wonderful hub striving to make the world more accessible with computer services, book clubs, and the ability to request specific books in.
Some libraries also open up other service to you. Mine came with access to Libby and BorrowBox - two amazing services that provide audiobooks and ebooks free of charge. Wait times can be long, but that just increases the excitement when your loan comes in!
Me & my most recent favourite library book - Olivie Blake’s Masters of Death
Book Swaps
Book swaps are an amazing way to read more, AND give the books on your shelves a new lease of life! You can swap with friend and family, but you can also utilise the services of BookSwap to reach further afield. \
Indie Bookstores
You really want to buy a brand new shiny book? Okay, fine — but please consider using local independent bookshops over big chains. Supporting local and indie means your money is going directly into the pockets of people who really need it, rather than multi-zillionaires. You’re helping put food on someone’s table rather than fund someone’s third yacht. It’s not always the most financially viable option, which is also why you could choose to shop second-hand or use the library the majority of the time.
If you’re struggling to find a local bookshop to support, Bookshop.org* is a fantastic company that helps you to find your local bookstore and ensures they are being financially supported.
So there we are, a few easy peasy tips for book shopping just that bit more consciously. Obviously the most effective solution is to not buy anything ever, but you know what us book-lovers are like… that’s not going to happen. BUT it’s so important to consider how we’re spending our money, how that impacts our environment, and who exactly is benefitting from our hard earned cash. Next time you go on a book-buying spree, perhaps think of this list and choose a more sustainable option.
Thanks so much, and love always - R x
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