I love reading. One of my retirement bucket list projects was to read more. Working during much of my adult life, running a household, and raising two sons didn't leave alot of time for leisure activities. While I would read occasionally, I really missed the adventures you can experience when diving into books.
I've made it a point to take time to read almost every day. I read all kinds of books,both fiction and nonfiction, including biographies, mysteries (my favorite), political and history. I have a great local library with an awesome collection. In addition, they have a mutual loan agreement with libraries throughout the state, so if they don't have what I'm looking for, I can search the state and request an item from another library. My library is also receptive to patron requests, and they have purchased many books that I (and I am sure other patrons) have suggested.
Some people like to buy their own books, either new or used. That is certainly an option. Personally, I have decided to be very selective when making a decision to buy a book. Usually it will be a cookbook or reference book. I also try to buy second hand, which saves money. It's easy to get swamped with an extensive personal library collection, so, I've decided to make it a habit to minimize and prioritize my purchases.
Like most people, I often check out books in traditional print format. However, there are other formats that are available. I purchased an e-reader several years ago. With this device, I am able to read digitized books from the library or available for purchase. There are many kinds of e-readers available, and the technology has advanced greatly since my initial purchase. E-books can also be viewed on a computer, tablets, iPods and smart phones. You have access to your book where ever you are! I like reading e-books the best. The reader is able to change size and color of font, spacing of lines and background colors. This ability to individualize makes reading very easy on the eye. Depending on the e-book format, there is a dictionary function, allowing the reader to easily look up word meanings by simply selecting the word and then selecting a dictionary option. (I really love this). Other options include taking notes and highlighting. (nice to do if you have purchased the book) E-book formats can be downloaded from and returned to the library via the internet. You can access these books from your library without having to leave the comfort of home. That's very convenient and time and energy efficient.
Other alternative formats for books include audio books. Books on tape and CD's have been available for sometime. This has been a convenient format, allowing people to listen to books while engaged in other activities (exercising, doing chores, doing leisure activities, traveling/driving). Some individuals who cannot read print or are auditory learners benefit from listening to books auditory format. Auditory books are available for free from your local library. E-format auditory books can be downloaded and returned via the internet. This is very convenient, especially for those facing challenges with mobility or where travel is inconvenient/difficult.
If you like to read or want to start reading more, be sure to check out the offerings at your local library. You can do so in person or on line. See what is available to meet your needs! I am sure you will find something you are looking for! The library staff are very helpful and knowledgeable and will be able to help you with finding books, research and even learning how to use e-book services. Local libraries are there for you! Your taxes are at work, be sure to take advantage of them.
I've made it a point to take time to read almost every day. I read all kinds of books,both fiction and nonfiction, including biographies, mysteries (my favorite), political and history. I have a great local library with an awesome collection. In addition, they have a mutual loan agreement with libraries throughout the state, so if they don't have what I'm looking for, I can search the state and request an item from another library. My library is also receptive to patron requests, and they have purchased many books that I (and I am sure other patrons) have suggested.
Some people like to buy their own books, either new or used. That is certainly an option. Personally, I have decided to be very selective when making a decision to buy a book. Usually it will be a cookbook or reference book. I also try to buy second hand, which saves money. It's easy to get swamped with an extensive personal library collection, so, I've decided to make it a habit to minimize and prioritize my purchases.
Like most people, I often check out books in traditional print format. However, there are other formats that are available. I purchased an e-reader several years ago. With this device, I am able to read digitized books from the library or available for purchase. There are many kinds of e-readers available, and the technology has advanced greatly since my initial purchase. E-books can also be viewed on a computer, tablets, iPods and smart phones. You have access to your book where ever you are! I like reading e-books the best. The reader is able to change size and color of font, spacing of lines and background colors. This ability to individualize makes reading very easy on the eye. Depending on the e-book format, there is a dictionary function, allowing the reader to easily look up word meanings by simply selecting the word and then selecting a dictionary option. (I really love this). Other options include taking notes and highlighting. (nice to do if you have purchased the book) E-book formats can be downloaded from and returned to the library via the internet. You can access these books from your library without having to leave the comfort of home. That's very convenient and time and energy efficient.
Other alternative formats for books include audio books. Books on tape and CD's have been available for sometime. This has been a convenient format, allowing people to listen to books while engaged in other activities (exercising, doing chores, doing leisure activities, traveling/driving). Some individuals who cannot read print or are auditory learners benefit from listening to books auditory format. Auditory books are available for free from your local library. E-format auditory books can be downloaded and returned via the internet. This is very convenient, especially for those facing challenges with mobility or where travel is inconvenient/difficult.
If you like to read or want to start reading more, be sure to check out the offerings at your local library. You can do so in person or on line. See what is available to meet your needs! I am sure you will find something you are looking for! The library staff are very helpful and knowledgeable and will be able to help you with finding books, research and even learning how to use e-book services. Local libraries are there for you! Your taxes are at work, be sure to take advantage of them.
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