Whether you're looking for textbooks, books for work, or books for pleasure, buying books can be fun or it can be a hassle. Buying books online can save you a lot of time and money if you know what you're looking for. You may also want to check out your local second hand book shops.
Second hand book shops can be great for buying books because of the low prices. You may not be able to find the exact book that you've set your sights on, but you may discovers ones that you haven't read in your favorite genre. Plus, many shops will buy your old books or you can trade your old books for ones you haven't read. Watch for sale days such as 50% off, or a two for one special, and you can really save buying second hand books.
When you need a specific text book, you may be better off finding it online and you still could find it online second hand to save money. Some school websites have a forum for buying and selling used textbooks. School bookstore may also offer used text books for sale and/or buy your text book back from you when you're finished your course.
If you need or want a particular book you can't get used, you can compare the online price with that of local bookstores. Of course if your local bookstore has the book in stock you will have it immediately rather than waiting for shipping, so that's a consideration. It's always a great idea to remember the appeal of great books as gifts. Whenever you're buying books, think about those on your gift list and what books suit their interests. For example, if you find a good book on sailing at a great price and you know a friend or family member interested in sailing, buy it to have on hand for a birthday or Christmas gift.