The Readers Review: Literature from 1714 to 1910 discussion

I thought it might be useful to have an area where you could see what resources others are using to locate books. Please post those resources in this thread

I use the Libby app for downloading ebooks from the library.

My favorite search for books is bookfinder.com as it searches multiple sources automatically.

I also use bookshop.org which accesses independent book sellers.

I use the Libby app as well. I find it easier to use than Overdrive on my ipad.
I also buy -or get for free- classics from applebooks an my ipad.
I prefer paperbacks from used book stores, but Covid has ruined all the fun of the hunt.
And then I do have a number of unread books, from used book sales, sitting on my bookshelves just waiting to be read!

Rosemarie wrote: "I use the Libby app as well. I find it easier to use than Overdrive on my ipad.
I also buy -or get for free- classics from applebooks an my ipad.
I prefer paperbacks from used book stores, but Covi..."

I have unread books on my shelf too. And oh how I miss the joy of finding a treasure or two in a used bookstore.

Does the Libby app work for countries other than the US?

Madge UK wrote: "Does the Libby app work for countries other than the US?"

Yes, I use Libby to access the local authority library in Yorkshire. You just input your library pin number (obtainable from the library) and name of library and then a list of available books is provided or you can search or request a book.

For those using computers and/or laptops who want e-books I would recommend ‘Calibre’
https://calibre-ebook.com/
which has been going for about 10 years. It is free to use and can search extensively for titles and authors works. I use it mainly to transfer free ebooks to my kindle.

I have posted in another thread about the iPad app Megareader which gives access to books from Gutenberg and several other public domain sites. I don't know if it is still available.

Many US libraries allow out-of-area patrons to join for a yearly fee, which allows access to ebooks and audiobooks (if your local library has a limited selection or doesn't use your preferred method.)

I have had good luck finding out-of-print physical books for purchase at thriftbooks (used books) and sometimes Ebay.

For those who want a book book and don’t mind/prefer second hand books, I like the Better World Books website-very reliable, I think it’s independent, good prices, according to their blurb seem socially responsible.

Ebay good choice. Especsily for lot books if you can find it for right prices and if in good condition.

Many, but not all, books that are in the public domain are available from Project Gutenberg. They add new books all the time, update errors in previous versions, they also have children's books. They are available to read online, epub, Kindle and other versions, some including audio.

Amazon often has classics free. Someone told me they take them from Project Gutenberg but I don't know that for sure. They are only available in Kindle format.

My library not only uses Overdrive (Libby) but also has hoopladigital.com. If your library uses that service, they have a lot of classics and also publications like Cliff Notes and Bright Summaries reading guides. They have audiobooks and movies as well. You are generally limited on how items you can check out in a month, in my library it's 10 items monthly.

My library also uses Axis360. I haven't used it too much but occasionally there is a book on there that my library has nowhere else in their collection. This service tends to lean toward popular best sellers but that isn't all they have.

The Internet Archive/Open Library have an amazing selection. I've found books there that I wasn't able to find anywhere else. Some of the books are scanned in so you can see some of the original publications.

freepaidbooks.online does not store books on their server, they use links to direct you to where you can read books. They have a very limited collection and I've not used them as yet, but if all else fails it might be worth checking them out.

Don't forget you can get interlibrary loans through your local library also. You can order them online and they will be delivered to your local branch. Do remember to select the check boxes for editions, whether or not you're willing to pay for shipping, etc.