Entering a second-hand book store is like finding a cave of wonders there are thousands of stories to discover. Second-hand book stores are filled to the brim with undiscovered authors and topics. There are many independent second-hand book stores but also many charities have opened second-hand book shops too. About 80 million books, each year; the equivalent of 575,000 trees are thrown into the recycling bins in the UK.
Buying second-hand books stop a cycle of buying books, reading them then tossing them away. Most of the books that you will find in second-hand book stores can cost you a few pounds so instead of getting one book for £20.00, you can get four for the same price. There is a little more work in finding a book that you want to read unlike high street stores or online you can just go to a section and pick up the book you are looking for. The book is set out in alphabetical order but there is a lot of searching involved and browsing, although that is half the fun. There are second-hand book shops online which do make searching much easier but there is less discovery and excitement when you find a treasure. Books for many years were treasures and looked after but with advances in printing and cheaper methods, it became more of a throwaway less look after, and love.
One thing I love about buying second-hand books is the variety of covers you can get especially with classics such as Austen, Bronte & Collins. The covers vary from leather-bound with gold lettering or gothic print. Also, it is clear to see which books have been well-loved and well-read, spines broken and little messages on the front pages. There is something special about these books, there is a story behind them. A truly human story that you are continuing. I love opening old books and finding little messages from parent to child or friends.
Some people are put off buying gold books because of the smell that sometimes comes with old books. The smell is the breakdown of the paper and will dissipate once you are in the house. There are the lovers and haters of the smell from books, I count myself as a lover.
Second-hand books are an easy but fun way for reducing your carbon footprint. It also does not break the bank to start. By buying second-hand books you will cut carbon emissions by one-fifth. It does not seem much but if everyone does this it will add up. Also once you have finished the book don’t then throw it into the recycling bin, give it to a friend or family member, donate the book or sell it to a second-hand book store. Alternatively, there are some upcycling projects that you can use books. From decorations to handmade cards. Most items have more than one use and we just need to think outside the box to find them.
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