How Much Does Your Reading Goal Actually Cost?
Setting a reading goal for the year is exciting — but the cost of hitting that goal can vary wildly depending on how you source your books. Buying every title new from a bookstore, downloading ebooks through a subscription service, hunting used copies, or relying on your public library all carry very different price tags.
Average Book Prices Used in This Calculator
- New hardcover/paperback: $17.99 average
- Used physical books: $5.00 average (thrift stores, eBay lots, and local used bookshops)
- Library borrows: $0 — your tax dollars already paid for it
- Ebooks (single purchase): $9.99 average on major retail platforms
- Subscription services (Kindle Unlimited, Audible, Scribd): you enter your own monthly cost
The Library Is Your Most Underrated Tool
A typical public library card gives you access to physical books, ebooks through apps like Libby and OverDrive, and audiobooks — all for free. Mixing library borrows with strategic used-book purchases is the most cost-effective approach for most readers.
Tips for Reducing Your Annual Reading Budget
- Use Libby: The free app connects to your library card and gives access to thousands of ebooks and audiobooks with no late fees.
- Buy used strategically: Save used-book buying for titles your library doesn't carry or has long waitlists for.
- Watch for Kindle deals: Amazon frequently discounts bestsellers and classics to $1.99–$2.99.
- Check thrift stores: Goodwill, Salvation Army, and library sales often have books for $0.50–$2.00 each.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many books does the average person read in a year?
According to Pew Research, the average American reads about 12 books per year, while avid readers often target 24–52 books (two to one per week).
Is Kindle Unlimited worth it for a reading goal?
Kindle Unlimited costs around $11.99 per month ($143.88/year). If you read more than 14 ebooks per year available in the KU catalog, it pays for itself compared to buying ebooks individually at $9.99 each. However, KU does not include most major-publisher bestsellers, so heavy readers of literary fiction or nonfiction may find the selection limiting.
What is the cheapest way to read a lot of books?
The public library is the cheapest option — entirely free for cardholders. Pairing a library card with the Libby app (for free ebooks and audiobooks) can bring your annual book cost to zero. If you prefer to own books, buying used copies at thrift stores or library sales is the next most affordable route, with typical prices of $1–$5 per book.
Do library ebooks and audiobooks really cost nothing?
Yes — library ebooks through apps like Libby and OverDrive are completely free to borrow with a valid library card. The only trade-off is availability: popular titles often have waitlists.
How can I track my reading goal spending throughout the year?
A simple spreadsheet with columns for title, source (new/used/library/ebook), and price works well. Goodreads lets you log books and add shelves to track your goal count. For budgeting, apps like YNAB or a dedicated "books" category in your bank app can alert you when spending approaches your annual target.