National Library Lovers Month: Bookstore vs. Libraries (Should You Borrow or Buy?)
February is National Library Lovers Month, which means it’s the perfect time to talk about one of the great bookish dilemmas: Should you borrow from the library or buy from a bookstore?
As a certified book hoarder, I get the struggle. Bookstores are full of shiny new releases, aesthetically pleasing covers, and the intoxicating scent of fresh pages (seriously, someone bottle that). But then there’s the library — a magical place of endless books, free reading adventures, and zero guilt if you DNF.
So, if you’ve ever stood in front of your overflowing bookshelf thinking, Should I really buy another book? (spoiler: the answer is usually yes), let’s break down when to borrow and when to buy!
When to Borrow from the Library
1. You Want to Try Before You Buy
There’s nothing worse than spending $30 on a hardcover, only to realize 100 pages in that it’s not your vibe. (Looking at you, books with gorgeous covers but zero plot.) Borrowing lets you test the waters before committing. Plus, with apps like Libby and Overdrive, you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks too!
✅ Best for: Books you’re unsure about, overhyped reads, and authors you haven’t tried yet.
2. You’re a Chronic Mood Reader
If your TBR pile is more of a TBR mountain, libraries are a lifesaver. You can check out books based on your current obsession (romantasy with morally gray fae kings?) without the pressure of owning them forever.
✅ Best for: Readers who change bookish moods every five minutes.
3. You’re on a Budget
Books add up fast (especially if you have zero self-control in a bookstore). Libraries let you read as much as you want for free, which means more money for bookish merch, cozy blankets, and fancy lattes.
✅ Best for: Readers who want unlimited books without breaking the bank.
4. You Love Discovering Hidden Gems
Libraries have underrated books that don’t always get the same hype as bestsellers. Plus, you can stumble upon old favorites, indie authors, and books you never would’ve picked up otherwise.
✅ Best for: Readers who like exploring beyond the bestseller table.
5. You Want to Support Your Local Library
Libraries are essential for communities, giving people access to books, events, and safe spaces to read and learn. Every time you check out a book, you’re helping the library keep funding for more books and programs.
✅ Best for: Readers who want to support libraries and keep them thriving.
When to Buy from the Bookstore
1. You Need It for Your Collection
Some books deserve a permanent spot on your shelf — whether it’s a special edition, a signed copy, or a book so good you know you’ll reread it 500 times.
✅ Best for: Books that are instant favorites or have stunning covers.
2. You Want to Annotate and Highlight
Love underlining quotes, adding sticky notes, or full-on writing in the margins? (Me, aggressively annotating my favorite unfinished series — like The Empyrean! — with all of my theories) Then you’ll want your own copy.
✅ Best for: Readers who love annotating and making books their own.
3. You Can’t Handle a Library Due Date
Listen, some of us are slow readers. If you can’t stand the pressure of a looming deadline (or just don’t want to return a book you haven’t finished yet), buying might be the better choice.
✅ Best for: Readers who take their time (or forget due dates).
4. You Want to Support Authors
Buying books directly supports authors, especially indie authors who rely on book sales. If you absolutely love a book, purchasing it helps ensure more books from that author in the future.
✅ Best for: Readers who want to support their favorite authors.
5. You Love the Bookstore Experience
There’s something magical about wandering through shelves, discovering new books (or pointing out all the books you’ve read to whoever you’re with), and treating yourself to a new read. (Bonus points if there’s a cute café inside.)
✅ Best for: Readers who love the whole book-buying experience.
So — Should You Borrow or Buy?
Honestly? Both. Libraries and bookstores each have their own kind of magic, and both deserve all the love this month (and every month).
Tell me — are you more of a library lover, a bookstore addict, or a little bit of both? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
(P.S. Need a cute bookmark for all those library books? Or a cozy blanket for bookstore hauls? I’ve got you covered — check out my shop for all the bookish goodies!)
