“Budget Reading: How I Read 50 Books a Year Without Breaking the Bank”

“Budget Reading: How I Read 50 Books a Year Without Breaking the Bank”

People often ask, “How do you manage to read 50 books a year?” The secret isn’t speed reading or expensive subscriptions — it’s smart reading on a budget. By buying second-hand books from trusted platforms like UsedBooks99.com, I’ve built a personal library without burning a hole in my pocket.

If you're a book lover who wants to read more and spend less, this guide will show you exactly how I do it — and how you can too.


📚 Step 1: Set a Realistic Reading Goal

You don’t have to start with 50 books. Begin with 1 book a month, then increase it gradually.

🎯 Pro Tip: Use Goodreads or a reading tracker app to stay motivated.


💸 Step 2: Switch to Pre-Loved Books

Buying new books can be expensive — ₹400 to ₹600 per title adds up fast. But with used books, you can often get 3-5 titles for the price of one new copy.

📦 At UsedBooks99.com, I buy:

  • Fiction books under ₹199

  • Self-help and business books at 50–70% off

  • Vintage and rare finds under ₹300

🛒 Explore Budget Book Deals »


📚 Step 3: Build a "Reading Queue" Shelf

One trick that works for me: I always keep 5–6 unread books on my shelf. This way, I never run out of reading options or feel the pressure to buy immediately.

💡 Buying in bulk from second-hand stores is cheaper, and UsedBooks99 offers curated mystery boxes and combo packs!


📖 Step 4: Read During "Hidden Time"

You don’t need hours of free time. I read:

  • 20 minutes before bed

  • During commute

  • While waiting in queues or appointments

Just 30 minutes a day = 25–40 pages = 2–3 books a month easily.


🌀 Step 5: Mix Genres to Avoid Burnout

Some books take longer to finish. To stay consistent, I alternate between:

  • Short novels

  • Graphic novels or poetry

  • Self-help or non-fiction

  • Easy reads (like YA or thrillers)

✅ UsedBooks99 has all of these — in good condition and affordable rates.


♻️ Step 6: Recycle & Rotate Your Library

Once I finish reading, I:

  • Gift books to friends

  • Donate to schools or libraries

  • Exchange with fellow readers

  • Sometimes resell or repurchase other used titles

It keeps my bookshelf fresh — and saves money too.


🔁 Bonus: Re-read Favorites Without Guilt

I’ve read The Alchemist 3 times and Tuesdays with Morrie every year — all thanks to buying them pre-loved for under ₹150 each.

📖 Re-reading a second-hand book feels just as magical — and even more meaningful.


💥 Final Thoughts: You Can Read More for Less

Reading 50 books a year isn’t just for influencers or speed readers. With a few smart habits — and platforms like UsedBooks99.com — you can turn reading into a daily, low-cost joy.

Start today.
📚 Build your 50-book reading list for under ₹3000 with our budget-friendly collection!

🔗 Browse Books Under ₹199 »
🔗 Shop Curated Reading Bundles »

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