Вoes anyone buy hardback books instead of paperbacks anymore? Why?
Wondering – does anyone buy hardback books instead of paperbacks anymore? Why?
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Wondering – does anyone buy hardback books instead of paperbacks anymore? Why?
I don’t. I can’t afford them.
Used hardcover books are inexpensive
I use the library or if I pick one up in the thrift store. Otherwise, new hardcover is just too pricey for me.
I will if it’s an author I really like but I’ll usually get them at Costco or use my Barnes and Noble membership discount.
I do on occasion if it’s an author I like. Most of the time I use the library or a used bookstore not far from where I live. I also buy ebooks on sale.
Sometimes ,I buy both
I like to buy ya books in hardback and collector adult fiction.
Sometimes
Its just that I’m reading a hardcover at present – which for some odd reason was cheaper than the paperback version – and it got me wondering about whether they sell many these days, given the environmental impact. More material etc.
If im collecting the books I like them to be in hard back, if I plan on just reading once or I can’t get a certain book in hardback then I have no issue with paperback
I do from favourite authors or series that i reread.
If I’m in the mood to spend twice as much, sure
Usually only when hardcovers are wanted first editions, or for gifting.. or if it’s a writer I follow or truly cannot wait for paperback release.. I really do prefer paperback format.. easier to hold and to shelve.. those on tbr and hard copies wanted.. I regularly visit second hand and library sales that often include hardbacks on sale..
I do use many bookstore membership discounts and gift cards.. for bookstore
buying..
They are memories to keep on my shelf, if they were good ones. Hardback looks sharper on a shelf. ??♀️
Yes; of course; when I want to read something new that’s not in paperback yet
In the past I’ve hit The Book Depository to order a paperback and found the Hardcover discounted to around the same price, but that hasn’t happened in a while.
also a surprise when that happens.. when at ThriftBooks or at HalfPriced Books..
True, but we have nothing like that in my area. All my books are ordered online.
@Andrew your fishpond. com , occasionally has hardcover and super prices..
great deals for this stateside reader..
That’s true too. I don’t use them often, but I have on occasion.
On clearance racks, thrift stores, second hand bookstores, library book sales.
Print size in paperbacks too small for my old eyes now.
It can vary from publisher to publisher.. and large print books with wide margins.. and chunky, oversized , not a first choice for this .. RA and hand challenged reader..
I have ever had a propensity for much favoured fine print in paperbacks
++ 900pp..or more..
even with glaucoma
I haven’t had to use stash of thin magnifying sheets.. ever at the ready ..
Here is where i have to put in a commercial for the Library for the Blind. Most are supported by your State Library and the Library of Congress. If you vision deteriorates to the point that you cannot read print or holding a book is simply not possible, the NLS network provides FOR FREE specially engineered books in digital format and playback equipment which come for free in the mail. There are hundreds of thousands of titles, and all are recorded by professional narrators. I worked for the service for 20 years. About 80% of my customers were seniors. I have never been prouder of any job in my 40+ years as a librarian. Here’s contact info: https://www.loc.gov/nls/
I prefer paperback
I recently bought Leah on the Offbeat and the hardback was cheaper than the paperback
I like hardbacks for reading. If possible I buy used, if not I go ahead and buy. I keep books because I usually read at least twice.
I buy used also.
I like keeping books, and will always pick hard book over a soft cover (if available)
If the book’s longer than, say, 300 pages, I find the hardback easier to hold and read.
I fell asleep one night reading a hardcover Stephen King and almost broke my nose! I’ve steered clear of hardcovers since.
@Renée lol !
It depends on how desperate I am to have THAT book!
Yes, because I like them best. ?
Depends on the author
Sure. Love them.
Many of my used books are hardcover. I prefer hardcover when possible. I like the feel of them, and to me, they hold up better, if it’s a book I might re-read.
I don’t, because the price is crazy, but I know people who do.
they used to be issued hard back large, then pocket size hard back ,then large soft then pocket size paper
Because sometimes you buy a book that you want to keep in your library. I have a small collection of hardbacks that, i felt were life changers. Also if you want to read a book when it is first published, hardback or ebooks are your choices. Paperbacks take a while.
Yes. I still get an ocassional book at the Dollar store. They have hardbacks all the time.
My favorite authors and want to get a first edition
I do if I’m excited about a new release (and can’t wait until the paperback) is out AND it’s discounted 😉
It really isn’t a matter of hardback/paperback but hardback/Kindle version. If it is <$5 difference in price I will get the hardback. If it is going to sit on my shelves or be a gift or something I'm likely going to want to loan out, it's going to be hardback. I do have paperbacks that I've picked up at thrift stores or received as gifts, they just don't hold up well and I don't keep them.
I always want to get the hardcover copy if it’s not price prohibitive. I’m not sure if it’s a prestige or design decision or what, but I love them.
I find hardcover books too heavy with arthritis in my hands and wrists.
@Rosanne please read my earlier comment about the Library for the Blind. I think you’d find it an enormous help.
@Lois Oh that sounds wonderful – I live in Canada though but we have a great public library system so maybe they have something similar! Thank you.
Rosanne Martin when you want the right answer, ask a librarian!! Here’s the contact for the Canadian service. I know you will love the service. http://iguana.celalibrary.ca/iguana/www.main.cls?surl=CELA-home&lang=eng&theme=reset There’s also CNIB, but that may be more for students. One or the other can direct you to the correct service for you
@Lois Thanks again! This is great info. I didn’t even think to check….
? And in answer to a question on another list that closed comments, recorded books are certainly reading. Any way that allows you to take in information is reading. Sometimes our bodies, whether vision, physical handicap, or learning disability, prevent us from reading in a traditional way. However, learning has no limits, only barriers to overcome. I sincerely hope this works for you.
Lois Rubin Gross that was my post. Apparently it was a repeated thread (though upon my quick search I wasn’t able to locate the original thread). I closed the comments to allow other posts the opportunity to trend. I appreciate your comment and agree with you whole heartedly.
@Melanie I figured you just got tired of reading all the comments. I do that, frequently. Anyway, I’m glad you agree.
Melanie Alhattab you know, some discussions are worth repeating if only to reassure the people who use the alternative means of reading. For me as a librarian (I was actually the Children’s librarian, but i was also in charge of reader’s advisory), the most heartbreaking conversations were with parents whose children were losing their vision from disease or parents with a child newly diagnosed learning disabilities. They were usually well read parents who felt that their child would not have a love of books. Ironically, children with blindness are among the best read kids I’ve ever met. On the other hand, since i worked in Denver, the saddest days for me were the days i signed up several teens who survived the Columbine massacre. I still cry every April 20. One thing i know. In a 40+ year career, that was the job where i truly made a difference.
I do. After the paperback comes out they are frequently cheeper. Also, they circulate better. I do not believe that it is possible to injure yourself with a standard hardback book. Sorry.
I am willing to concede that perhaps the heft of such books may be difficult with arthritis though.
If I’m not traveling I’ll buy a hardcover, otherwise paperback.
Hard back. Like the feel of holding a book
I love the feel, the smell, the look, the weight of my books.
I still do but only because I want to read them before anyone else and they are beautiful on the shelf but I always use a coupon
Yes, if I read a series in paperback and I really like it I get the hardback editions.
It is because I love certain authors and cannot wait for the paperback edition that comes at a later date!
I prefer paperback, fits better in my purse lol
Only hardback. More comfortable.
When (a) I can’t wait for the paperback or (b) it’s a book I know I’m going to re-read and re-read over and over.
Yes, my Grishams are all hardcover and I have no thought out explanation to why lol. I think they look nice I guess, and I do like that when I’m in the bulk of it, most of them can sit open on my lap.
I only keep hardcovers on my shelves. I buy paperbacks to carry on vacation then I donate them.
Yes, when my favorite authors have a new release or I’m particularly impressed by a book. I usually get the Kindle version too. I’m odd — that’s my only reason.
Only if I plan on keeping the book forever, such as Harry Potter books. Otherwise it’s paperback and I donate or giveaway those.
Only if it is a favorite author and I want to keep the book.
Sometimes I do….I have a couple of authors I would prefer to have in hardback to keep on my shelf, and sometimes a paperback’s print is too small. Even a trade paperback. Which of course is why Kindle is so great, you can change the font. Still, a few authors I must have in hardback. Nelson DeMille, John Connolly, Amor Towles (new to my obsession)……to name a few.
Yes if I can get them on sale, we also have a book store in St Petersburg FL called 321 and the most expensive book is $3 and I buy Hard covered books there all the time,
I do if I find them at book sales or if it is something I really want to read.
Mostly based on best buy. I do a lot of reading.
Prefer hard covers.
I buy them if the book is written by one of my favorite authors or if the book is a keeper for me.
Only if i find it used and not available in paperback or sometimes at Barnes and Noble and i am able to get it cheaper.
both – I like each for different reasons
I enjoy the feel of a hard back book, however most of my purchases or on used book from library sales, flea markets or yard sales
I do sometimes. If it’s a brand new title and I don’t want to wait for the paperback to come out. Conversely, if I’m buying it at a used book store. I’m reading a hard cover right now. I generally prefer paperbacks, though, because I bring books with me everywhere and they are smaller and lighter to carry.
Because hc gets released first
True. I believe it’s 6 months later for the paperback edition
I do if it’s from one of my favorite authors and it’s a new release that I can’t wait to read. One I know I won’t mind keeping in my collection.
Buy both…sometimes because I’m impatient and don’t want to wait for the paperback to come out but mostly because I’m at a book signing or they’re collectors editions.
I much prefer paperbacks – especially Mass Market Paperbacks. Hardback books take up too much space. For that reason, I rarely buy them.
I buy hardbacks if it is a favorite series(been awhile since needed to do that) and if I get it from Goodwill, Thriftbooks, or etc. Brand new..not a chance. I buy paperback and hardbacks to keep on my shelves. I have paperbacks that are old and holding up well.
If I don’t want to wait for the paperback to come out; or if I plan to share it with many friends and family members, then I purchase hardcover.
If I am going to or already ave read the book many times, I will buy it in hardback. I made the mistake of buying well loved books in paperback and having them fall apart.
If it’s a book I love and want a nice edition of, or a new book I want right away, or a gift to someone
I get both depending on what available. But sometimes I prefer hardcover because the cover can’t get bent. Although now I have my Book Beau’s that protect all my books from that. Hardcovers always seemed fancier to too lol.
Sometimes, if it’s an author I LOVE, I will pre-order it in hardcover, so that I receive it on the day it’s released.
Just bought one last night!
If the book is interesting looking, sure.
I only buy hardback if I can’t wait and must have now.
Good books, always in hardcover. Its the only way to preserve for years and years.
I purchase both, but I ultimately prefer hardback books because of the way they look on my shelves and how well they hold up over time.
All the time. Used book store is near me and I wander in once every week or so and usually pick up something for a couple dollars and it’s hard back
I’m really picky about paper so if it’s a book I know I’m going to want to keep forever, I’ll buy the hardback because the paper is usually more durable and doesn’t yellow. Although, paperbacks have come a long way in the last 10+ years and are getting nicer with better paper and deckled edges. I stay faaaar away from the cheapo mass market paperbacks with the “newspaper” paper. Just no.
Only if I’m desperate. Sometimes I can’t wait for the paperback, but books are too expensive to be always buying the hardback versions, especially where I live. Even the paperbacks cost an arm and a leg.
I don’t buy new hardbacks, I check them out from the library if I can’t wait for the paperback (often the case). Sometimes the used hardbacks are cheaper or all that are available. Hardbacks are more durable, so if it’s something I might want to keep, I’ll look for a good used hardback even if it costs a little more. Finally, my old eyes often can’t handle trade paperbacks, which limits me to the larger “quality paperbacks.” What’s the modern term for them?
The exception is the Everyman’s Library Editions, with the red ribbon bookmark. I love the feel of holding and reading those hardbacks, when I can afford them.
Because I can’t wait for it to come out in paperback! I must have it now!
Me too
I’ll buy them if it’s a book I want for my permanent library.
Hardback just looks better. However there is a certain type of high quality paperback books that I really like the feel of.
Because I ❤️ Them. If they have a book available in hardcover I’d rather have it. Weird thing but I like the way they look better on my bookshelves and I prefer holding them over a softcover.
I do, but I buy used books
I like hardback books because the flap on dust covers make great bookmarks. Other than that, I don’t really have a preference.
I do..I’ve spent a fortune on these books, I feel they will last much longer than ordinary paperbacks..
I only buy hardback when it’s a gift for someone or I’m at an author’s signing.
Yes, I do. Because sometimes I don’t want to wait until it comes out in paperback and I don’t use an electronic reader.
Some books with illustrations. I just recently bought Seamus Heaney’s translation of Beowulf. It’s gorgeous.
If it’s a book or series that means a lot to me, that I want to keep around and hold up better to multiple reads, then yes, I will buy hardback.
I do sometimes. I’ve had to re purchase some of my favorite books because I bought them in paper back and I’ve reread them so many times that they’ve fallen apart.
I only buy hardbacks.
I buy used hardbacks of books I’ve read from the library and want to own.
I buy both plus ebooks. It depends on whether I think the book is a keeper and whether I am willing to wait for the paperback.
Depends on the author and the price. If it by author which books I love, why not but usual the cheaper way buy the book is paperbacks. When I use the library, then the books are hardcovers, mostly.
They are cheap on Amazon, usually a penny plus shipping.
I don’t buy books because I couldn’t afford to buy as many as I read, and I’d run out of space in my house. However, I do at times get hardcover books from the library. Most often it is because it is a new book and not yet available in paperback. Also, hardcovers are better at staying open when I am reading and eating at the same time. I’ve even been known to get the hardcover AND the paperback from the library at the same time. I carry the paperback around with me, and read the hardcover at home…
only ones from authors i love.
I buy whatever’s cheapest (usually paperbacks) and then usually end up selling/trading/donating all but my faves.
I buy paperback because I like the look of a well read book. To me it gives them character. My partner buys hard cover because, now i dont know how but, they fall to pieces if he reads paperback. It confuses me, I have seen the result, and I cannot fathom how it happens…
On a side note, I dont like the feel of reading a hardback book. And the weight of a hardback is hard on my arthritic hands and wrists.
I prefer hardbacks.
I prefer paperbacks. I like flicking through the pages.
I buy both. It depends on how fast I want a new release.
And some don’t come out in hard back at all.
@Leigh that makes me happy too lol
same here.
I seldom buy books. I borrow from my local public library. 🙂
always read paperbacks. I struggle to hold a hardback.
Im glad im not the only one
I get hardbacks used or from BoTM. They are too expensive otherwise. I make exceptions for collectibles
Neither. No room anymore. I buy them electronically now. But I used to buy hardcover for the good ones and still have them all.
I love hard backs for thier durability however I have bad arthritis so the heavy to hold and I buy paperback
For word books, I’m fine with paperback. For the various of picture/art/cartoon books I collect I prefer hardcover…especially since many of them are old and the spines give out.
I like how they look and feel, I also like that it’s harder to hurt them
I have book of the month so I get those. Also, if there is a series I am really into and cant wait I get those lol.
I have a new love for “large print” books which are only in hard back.
Yes, if it’s about Ted Bundy or David Bowie.
Interesting combination
@Kathy Tell me about it! Haha
Yeszsss!!! Love my bookcases full of old and new faves!!
I do. But only if it’s a good deal. Like half price or used.
Whenever I find an author whose words mean something to me I buy the hard bounds for my library.
I get whatever I can find. Lol I prefer hard back if they have a pretty spine without the jacket.
I only do that for my collection of Dean Koontz and John Sanford books. I buy them used, though.
I love old books , books from used book stores .
I prefer hardback books. They last longer, feel better in the hand, and are usually easier to read (stay open better).
I like the feel but will read either especially if one is more affordable.
yes, something about the feel of them.
No. Hard cover books are heavy and a hassle.
If something’s newly out in hardback and I want to read it, I indulge. Also I collect and sometimes deal rare books, so there’s that. But really, I am most comfortable reading a clean, sturdy paperback — my own, so I can take my time.
Since I’m now over 70 I rarely buy a book. I use the library big time. It’s important to use your local library in order to keep them going. Funding can be based on readership I think. I have quite a fe w hardback books that haven’t read yet. Saving those for when I can’t get out anymore. LOL
I used to work in a library and funding is based on membership
Too much money
It all depends on your age and circumstances. As a young person I mostly bought paperbacks. Then as I matured and was financially more able I bought hardback books on subjects that I wanted to learn about at the time, history, biography, music, art. By now our shelves are full and we need to downsize. It will definitely be library and kindle in the future.
I shop used books at thriftbooks so I buy whichever has a like new or very good used book whether it’s hardback or paperback or Library binding
Only at my local library book sales. I can’t pass up $1 for a good book.
I prefer paperbacks but will buy hardbacks if they are priced reasonably. I like how paperbacks feel in my hands better. Hardbacks don’t provide the flexibility that I like when I’m holding my book with one hand.
I use the library a lot or ebooks but if I buy a physical book, it’s a hardback.
I buy only hardbound books unless it is a book that is printed in southbound edition only.
my mom buys hard back books, cause she buys our favorite authors at sams club, the day they come out… we cant wait for the paper backs!!!
I buy used books through Amazon whenever possible. They are more attractive to me this way.
I buy hardbacks because I like their feel.
I get hardbacks from the library…easier on my old hands to read…..
I hate paperbacks!!!
Yes. They do better with our active lifestyle in terms of durability
I do. Easier for old eyes to read.
I prefer hardback. They’re sturdier, don’t fall over if I don’t have a bookend, and they have a nicer aesthetic.
I prefer ebooks, no clutter and very convenient,
I like paperbacks better but if I fancy a book mostly autobiographies them I get in hardbacks
They feel way better, and durable, plus to me, having one is like having a trophy once your finish lol
Not from my experience, my paperbacks has out sold the hardcover by 100 to 1. I was really surprised by this. And the paperback is out selling the ebook by 5 to 1 which is shocking
Both depends on the price
If it’s a new release and only in hardcover and I want it – I most certainly do buy hardcover. I love a hardcover – especially in the fall and winter. To me – it’s “cozy” and a luxury.
Yes, I prefer the feel of hard back books.
If it’s a favorite author and I don’t want to wait for the PB.
I buy hardbacks if I don’t want to wait for the paperback. most recently The King añnd the Catholics by Antonia Fraser.
Yes because hardbacks are the best. It actually depends on how much I feel like I should spend on a book. ?♀️
I prefer paperback but will read either. Has to be the physical book though, I don’t dig ereaders
I have for books I love and want to keep forever and ever.