I hate that on Booktube there is such an emphasis on BUYING BOOKS. Not reading them and sharing our thoughts with others. No, it's just who can haul the most books each month. I think most of us started our channels because we were avid readers and had no one in our lives to talk to about books. TH-cam was our outlet. Where we could find like minded people, discuss books and make friends. I think a few people have forgotten this. We need to stick to our roots. Booktube isn't a competition, no matter how much it feels like one at times. I could bang on all day about this but I won't. Great discussion as always Richard! Really respect you for having the cojones to put this out there.
RGsDevilship We do need to stick to our roots and get back to what it was that brought us here and the real reason we decided to make channels. It has been forgotten, I agree and it's sad to see booktube turn into a regular, competition driven community. And thank you! I just had to make this video. It was needed.
RGsDevilship Not to mention Booktube makes a chore out of reading. Seems like buying and reading is a HUGE pressure on booktube and I hate it. Literally made me stop reading for awhile. :/
i do like this discussion, i just wish there was no need for it, you know? i wish it was understood from the start that booktubing doesn't require the actual act of buying books i think a lot of people go through the "starting-booktube-book-buying-craze", myself included, which SUCKS because i have so many books i have no desire to read anymore i agree that there is some pressure to buy books because the larger booktubers have MASSIVE collections, but this is also their job and half of it is from publishers but i really wish that wasn't the case but i hope that in the future everyone understands that there are tons of alternatives to buying books to maintain a booktube channel and that money really shouldn't be a massive factor in this community
PREEEACH I'm all about the library! and I constantly say that in my videos. if I had bought all the books I read this year I would have easily spent over $300. I ain't got time fo dat
Love this SOOOO much, boo! You're so right! I realized a long time ago that I am not about to screw myself over in order to try and keep up with other people's book buying habits. Booktube is what you make it. It's about the love of books, not how many books you can haul per month in a video! I don't do book hauls anymore and that's honestly by choice. I will do hauls from events I've gone too, but those hauls are intentional. I honestly just do what makes me happy. And that's the BEST advice I can give anyone in booktube. Do what works for YOU and no one else. And yes yes yes to the library. It's seriously one of our greatest gems!
You think $11 or $12 is an expensive paperback!?!?!?!! In australia paperbacks are $20 - $30. its some serious bullshit. D: thats why book depository is my bae.
Oh my goodness that's why my book is so expensive in Australia! I thought mine was just different .... ha. I was like "why is it so much??? :( :(" haha
Another option: If you can't stand handling used books, but like to read electronically, many public libraries (U.S.) have online collections. They even have audiobooks! It's free and there are no late fees!
I agree with everything you said. Some booktubers hold up huge stacks of books every month and eventually your just like seriously?? How do they spend that much money? It can get unhealthy when your priorities get messed up.
leslie evans i get surprised when i see allot of booktubers with like 50 + books n there all brand new it's like what the hell the places i get most of my books are in library books sales because if u wait till the end of the library book sales they say you can have a bag of books for a pound so i get like 10+ books in a bag for a £1 bargain also charity shops are amazing too because in my area i have found new books just released in a charity shop for £1 but the library is my home away from home the librarian's know me by name i am there so often lol
Well, like Raven already said, there are sales all over. I recently got over 40 books for less than 5$. It was 1$ a bag and you could stuff in as many books in the bag as would fit. Almost all were in like new condition. There is also a bargain book warehouse near me where every book is 1$. Also, Amazon has great 'like new' used books for about 4$ (including shipping), I get many from there, as well. If you saw my bookshelves youd think I broke the bank every day on books, but I didnt at all.
When i saw the drama i had to know what all the tea is about it lol but honestly this is so true because people feel obligated to buy books because of all these shelf tours and you see a million books on cute shelves and book hauls because they get alot of views and people need to know good content doesn't come from showing off the newest and latest books ESPECIALLY when you're just always blindly buying it because of other booktubers and don't know the synopsis to it. I really like this video because when i first joined booktube last year i thought "Oh wow everyone uploads a book haul every month and its the newest books and it gets views i'm gonna do that too." and end up wasting hella money on hyped books that i honestly didn't like that much but because everyone was talking about it i wanted to be in the loop too. I just hope this video gets attention so not only booktube but the book community can understand this subject.
I can afford brand, new books BUT, I have been watching the Booktube Folks and I stop in at Goodwill and Half- Priced Books all of the time. Now, I have discovered Thriftbooks- love this website. It is a good thing that I do not feel the need to have to read the newest it book. Books have gotten so expensive. The book subscriptions are also good deals. Plus, I would feel guilty spending a lot of money on books and not getting to read them all quickly. Perhaps, the Booktube Community could start giving giveaways with their books?
WORD. Oh man. This is a good convo to have. You should never feel like you should have to keep up with everyone, whether that's in the rate at which people buy or at the rate in which people read books. I learned that lesson a few years back. I'll never keep up with every new release. Heck, I'll never see the number 0 on my TBR shelf. To touch on the money, yeah, it is a personal choice whether you buy $100 worth of books or you borrow or thrift or have to use your money for other things. I would not want someone to go hungry or homeless because they want to keep up with what everyone else is reading! And yeah, there's other kinds of content to make besides reviews, hauls, wrap-ups. It's a great excuse to stretch yourself creatively! Break the mold! I will say that I am coming from a standpoint of getting books for review from publishers, so I usually buy one book a month unless I'm going to a festival or signing and I have a little extra cash. I don't have a full-time job and I have student loans to pay, so that's also a thing. Also also also, there have been quite a few "Travelling books" as of late, and I think that can be a great way not to spend so much, but also share the reading experience with others. I know, there's no exact/perfect solution to not acquiring $100 worth of books every month, but I don't think anyone really *needs* to buy/receive more than they can read in the next few months.
YES! This video is on point. I talked about this with Niki form 'Niki Livesnow' few weeks ago. I started watching booktube when all these scavenger hunts and challenges that require big bookshelf went around. I really enjoyed booktube videos and started playing with the idea about me starting filming, but I felt a bit weird and uncomfortable because I don't have enormous bookshelf. Later I realised that what I was thinking was ridiculous and even realised I like to own books that I liked, but not the ones I didn't really enjoy, so I didn't really want to have huge bookshelf. I will admit it's so nice to see shelves with a lot of books on them behind the people talking and I for the most part don't have problem with them buying books if they can afford. Sometimes do feel that the consumerism is encouraged and I don't really like that. I fell that some people buy books for the sheer act of buying, not for anything else and I don't really support that. But on the end of the day, if they have the money to do it, it's their business and I shouldn't be the one to judge.
I think it gets people down when they see all the booktubers with huge bookshelves full of beautiful new books and stuff, but I don't understand why people don't use the library more. I absolutely love libraries. Library book hauls are a great idea, but you're right, books are super expensive. I will only buy actual books if I have already read that book and I loved it to the point where I might read it again. Also, if the kindle version is cheaper, I'll definitely go with that. Sometimes I want the paperback just to touch it, but most of the time the kindle version is where it's at for me. That and the library. Usually I'll read the library book first. IF I like it, then I might buy it later on when I got some monies available and my bank account isn't killing me. Also, thrift shops!!! Thrift shops always have book, and yard sales. So many great ideas. Another thing is that building a bookshelf takes time. You can't buy all the popular books at one time. My bookshelf is tiny if you don't count my e-books. So it takes time, and I think that's the beauty in it. I love collecting things and taking my time on it. Shit, I should have just made my own video about this in response. Thanks for the video though, because people should know that you don't need to buy the book when there are tons of beautiful libraries out there.
Plus: a lot of those giant book hauls are half given by the pubishers, so no much money spent by those booktubers... And i dont like it when they call themselves 'collectors' and after that make unhauls videos, no much sense to me. Love the subject and how you bring the library option to the discussion, because... books for free! Nice video, Esther.
LectoraEstherica Most of those books if they even read them will end up with 4-5 stars on Good reads and nothing to be said about but it was GREAT(BUY IT !) No critical analysis of anything...depressing and sad really.
It's funny how people are starting drama on twitter because of this. It's so immature. You didn't call out people who buy a lot of books in any way. I buy books and I only use the library every once in a while and yet I did NOT feel offended by this video. This is not a provocative video. You just said "if you don't have the money, don't feel discouraged, you don't need to buy all the books to have a booktube channel". People who thought their buying habits were being called out need to grow up and realize not everything is about them.
I was thinking about this when watching a lot of book tube. Those people who can buy books are so privileged! But that doesn't mean that people who can't afford books can't read. I discussed this a lot with my literacy development program. I go to the library a lot and I also buy lots of books from thrift stores and library book sales. I also buy them used online :) I have so much money to spend on college textbooks that buying fun books is near impossible for me! I spent $50 on like 3 new books once ( because I had been given a B&N gift card) and it was actually a bit painful.... It's hard to enjoy books when I have to spend so much on them haha
I'm so late for this video but I agree wholeheartedly! I love collecting books, I buy them off websites like Book Outlet or my husband buys them as a surprise. I try not to spend too much money on them, because obviously we have responsibilities and our son's needs and whatnot. My local library has a WONDERFUL selection! I haven't been there in a while, after I got pregnant I fell in to a 2 year long reading slump so I stopped going. I don't plan on buying any more books for a few months, or at least in bulk anyways. Nobody should EVER feel guilty for not being able to buy books. Libraries are there for a reason, and they are wonderful. No shame what so ever in hauling from a library!
This is one of your BEST discussion videos. Just have to say! LOVE that you remind people they can go to the library. I dropped out of booktube for about a year because of the almost "depression" that I couldn't buy all these books to "get viewers" and "keep up with the Joneses". I can't, I've got kids to support - you know? haha. I love that the community is finally branching out from just YA to other genres, and I am seeing a lot more videos about "bargain books" and "library hauls". Great video!
WOW! Wonderful and thought provoking video. This is something I think about often, but I've never actually seen someone make a video on it and I'm so glad you did. I would hate to think that some people want to leave because of this. People don't need great book hauls to make good videos. The library is a great thing. Great video!!!
THANK YOU. As a new booktuber, it can be so frustrating to watch other booktubers haul tons and tons of books a month and feel so left out and disappointing that you don't have hundreds of dollars to spend on books. And I really wish more booktubers would be honest like you and acknowledge with their viewers that they are lucky enough to afford that amount but reassure their subscribers that this is not what it takes to be a "real booktuber" or whatever, so their viewers don't need to feel like they're left out of an elite. I love how honest you are in videos like these, please keep on doing you!!
Bless you, Richard. You're the coolest. I understand this topic from first hand, because here in my country books are EXTREMELY expensive, so I rely on ebooks to actually read the books I want to read. LOVED this video!
YYYYYYYYYYYESSSSSSSS, slayin' it AGAIN with this video, Richard! Seriously, I don't understand people who get defensive as soon as you post a discussion video. Obviously you're trying to genuinely reach out to people who need to hear this, and if someone doesn't need to hear this then they should just ignore it and move on with their life and keep doing their thing! But YES, it makes me so sad when people say they can't "afford" BookTube. It can definitely be intimidating when we see vloggers with 100K subscribers who use $700 cameras and spend $200 on studio lighting, then drop another $100 a month on books. The natural instinct is to emulate those habits, but it doesn't have to be that way! Gurl, I ain't about that money-dropping life. I started my channel on my webcam. I use natural lighting and film on my phone's camera. I check books out of my library, buy them secondhand, go to library sales, borrow them from friends, look out for ebook deals, see if they're on BookOutlet, etc. etc. There is NO NEED for anyone to go broke doing BookTube. Because of libraries, books are readily accessible, and you don't need to own a book to talk about it or to start a book-related discussion. IF ONLY MORE PEOPLE REALIZED THIS. I respect you for getting this message out there, and I hope that the people who need to hear this realize the truth you're telling them. Great video, as always
perpetualpages Watch me slayyy lol Yes, I don't get why people get defensive, it makes no sense. If only more people did realize this, things would be way better. Hopefully this video finds people and makes it better. Thank you Adriana :) you're always amazing.
Thanks for making this video. After a year on BookTube I realized that my book buying has gotten out of control and the money issue really is a huge part of it. Great job, great video.
This video was on point. Your honesty is refreshing and I agree with your points.You handled it in a respectful way as well. I enjoy using my local library and the friends of the library program (basically a warehouse store with $2 hardbacks and $1 paperbacks). There are so many ways to access cheap reading materials. Thank you for the video :) More people should really discuss these things, especially for new booktubers.
From Here to the Stars Thank you! I felt like this video was needed. I love the friends of the library program, you get to buy cheap books and also support your library.
I love your honesty. to me money was why it was so hard for me to even think of starting a channel. until this past weekend I only owned 6 books. but I own tones of ebooks. now I am studying up on editing so people can see the books I talk about. thank you for this video. it is so true that people think that without money you cant do what u love. there is always a way.
I love how all the twitter drama around your videos usually results in you getting a lot of support, subscribers, positive responses, etc. and just makes the other people look like assholes. Keep doing what you're doing, you're awesome! :)
This is why I love you. You don't shy away from topics like money and such. Many Booktubers are just like 'yay books *bookhaul* yay more books *bookhaul*'' and that's it. You always go deeper and discuss topics that are either maybe 'taboo' or BT are too sensitive to talk about and such. Great discussion! I cannot afford buying books at all let alone buying enough at 'BookTube Standard' xD you bring up the great point of 'you don't have to afford booktube' cos at the end of the day, you're talking about books, that costs nothing and should cost nothing! We should just work with what we got and what libraries have got and never ever think we need money to reach the 'BookTube Standard'. I've noticed booktube has become very centered on how many books you own and buy instead of focusing on reviewing and discussing books and that's definitely something we need to fix and even something like this discussion is a great start to getting back on track of what the point of BookTube is.
This thumbnail hahaha love it. I am glad you made this video although my problem isn't with wanting to buy books, you know I'm all about the library! Mostly I just feel pressure to get more videos out and this is a good reminder that booktube should be fun! I'm going back down to one video a week because it takes up so much time that I just don't have right now. I do love getting new books but I'm glad you mentioned thrifting because it can be so fun to scrounge through stores and find awesome deals! Those books are more special to me. And don't forget about books for trade!
Yasss! I'm a uni student in Australia and books are fucking expensive! I have library hauls on my channel and normal hauls, my June Book Haul might look like a lot of books - I got most of them at thrift shops! I still splurge when I can afford it and buy books because I want to. Not because I feel a pressure because of booktube! We can't all haul 30 books a month, but that doesn't make our content worse then any other booktuber! You want to go haul 30 books every month. go ahead, you want to haul 0 books every month then go ahead. It doesn't matter as everyone can afford booktube!!
I really do love your honesty in this video. I realise it's a little old now, but I really am so impressed with this honesty. I'm disabled and can't work and struggle to buy books, so on my Booktube channel I'm going to be doing mostly library hauls, and there's nothing wrong with that at all :) Libraries are fun and I've found some great authors that way! ^_^ Thank you for your honesty. It's really touched me today
Amazing video! It is so true! I mostly get my books used from Amazon or used book stores. I plan to get a library card soon and start checking books out as well. I agree, you don't have to buy all the new books, every one is already talking about them anyways, so be different, and check out or buy a used book that's not talked about much. I love hearing about books that not every one is talking about.
Preach!!! I started my account like two months ago and I'm a booktube-ish account and even before I started I felt like I needed to buy all the books people talk about but ain't nobody got that much money. This is all for fun and people shouldn't feel forced to do anything. I hope your booktube friends keep doing TH-cam and I hope everything works out for them.
Thanks for posting this, to add onto the library thing people need to start taking advantage of audiobooks from there also! Everyone seems to be sponsoring audible for $$ and sure there's a free trial but after that it's like 15 bucks to listen to someone read to you. Idk, I've only recently realized just how great of a library I have, and though I have plenty of books of my own, I've realized I don't need to be spending so much money on something I can acquire for free.
i really like this video. a bad habit that booktube got me in that i'm working on is reading/ buying books that i'm not really interested in. i wasted so much money buying books that everyone else was reading that i "wanted" to read.
I'll be honest when I first started book tubing back in early 2012 I think it was I only bought YA for the most part fast forward to now and I still love YA but what has happened is that through booktube it got me wanting to explore other books and that's where my love for books came from pretty much the whole discovery aspect is fun for me and finding new authors is good too :)
I've only come across two booktubers including yourself who admit to reading library books. The majority of booktube have bought their hauls. Its strange how the larger channels don't use libraries.
It sucks when people turn things into a popularity or status contest. Personally, I don't give a damn how BookTubers get their books. I just like to find people with awesome personalities, who have tastes similar to mine or are vastly different, exposing me to books I might skip over while browsing. It never occurred to me that BookTubers would go broke trying to sustain having huge monthly hauls. What sucks even more is they're probably not even reading all of those books, which is the whole point. I'm not a BookTuber, but a blogger. I use any means necessary to get the books I want. Libraries are amazing and I use mine frequently. But I still buy books and have an Audible subscription.
Thank you!!! I'm SO glad you said this, booktube does make it look like you've to buy a million plus books. I just made a channel, and I know I can't afford to buy every book that i want to read. i LOVE libraries! I know I'm going to try to spread this message when i start uploading videos. well said!!!
I love that you keep it 100! Great video content as always. I think people watch the book tubers who are buying 15 books a month(who is reading that much really?) and think wow I have to be like them to get viewers. I hate that about Book tube now. I miss the old videos where you watched people get really passionate about books(popular and independent sellers) instead of the few popular books out there. They had actual content talking about books and they weren't all a carbon Copy of each other. No shame in the library or thrift store books. Hopefully, your video will inspire more people to make video for more than just money.
Omg! Thank you so much for making this! You're absolutely right. This is a MAJOR issue that needs to be talked about. I've talked with several people who've wanted to start booktube but they said they were nervous because of the money issue. It's like this community that is so welcoming is already turning some people away. Viewers see the "big booktubers" haul massive amounts of books at a time and some may feel pressured to keep up with them. What they don't realize is, they are receiving a lot of these books for free. This video has inspired me to start a project I've been wanting to do quite some time. I'd love to DM you on Twitter more about it.
Thank you for making this video! I'm privileged because I'm able to afford buying books and I feel so bad that people feel like they can't make videos if they can't afford books. People could honestly make videos sitting in front of a white wall talking about a book without having it with them and I would still watch it. For people who really want to buy books I also recommend the used book section on Amazon. Sometimes they have amazing deals!
I loved this conversation video! I don't have any videos on my youtube account. I just love watching booktube and enjoy listening to others talk about books. For me its something that makes me happy. I love your videos Richard and you are a very kind hearted individual. I pray that you will be blessed with all the happiness you deserve.
I go to the library also, as well buying free ebooks for my laptop's Kindle app. I am thinking about trying BookTube. I've been delaying because my family doesn't have internet at home. I do like to shop at thrift and book shops. Thank you for posting this video. I'm already poor and you have given me some encouragement to try BookTube.
I absolutely agree with this video. Thank you for posting it! I love the library and frankly I love reading because I can get books for free from the library. I also love watching library hauls. It makes no difference to me if Book Tubers are showing a library haul or a haul they bought. You will get great book recommendations either way. Growing up we didn't have much money but my world was always rich because of the library. Book Tubers like you that have the courage to post videos like these are going to change the community in a positive way which is awesome. Just to let you know I found this video from video responses that other Book Tubers posted about this video so it is reaching lots of people. People that feel the same way as you. Have a great week, Richard!!
I know I'm like two years late in watching this, but I just found your channel. This video means so much to me. I quit booktube a while back because I felt like I couldn't afford it. Thank you for this. It really does mean a lot. Oh, and I love your channel and I am looking forward to purchasing your book soon!
I'm so happy to see a discussion on this! It is a touchy subject but a very prevalent one. I need to go to the library more, I always forget but I do go to used book stores a TON, and I really like them. This was a great video- good for you for speaking out! :)
Charmedfan2010 Thank you! I felt like this needed a full video and needed some heavy light shed on it. I hope more people find this and feel better. :)
Sad that this even needs to be said, but glad someone said it. I remember leaving comments on videos after the whole Pro/Anti-Library debacle, that it seemed that Booktube was more about buying books, getting free books from publishers/authors, and less about actually READING the books. I would say about 80% of the booktubers I follow take advantage of their local library system and still make plenty of content. The Haul is not the be all, end all, required content that people think it is. It is especially infuriating when I see "famous" booktubers receiving free books and ARCs, but not ever getting around to reading the book until well after release date. Or buying books they aren't sure they will like (or outright know they don't, but have to finish a series). I know people can do what they damn well please with their money, but I don't give a fuck what is on your shelf, I want to hear that you read it and what you think about it!
I bought so many books last year that I have no space for anything else. I am at the point where if I could have my books on Kindle or just borrow from a friend or library, I'd be fine. I feel like watching Booktube made me feel like I HAD to get the newest books when they came out, but it's unhealthy like you said. Finally, someone is talking about this issue. Awesome as always Richard!
Absolutely excellent video as always Richard, you handle topics so well and in such a thoughtful way- you touch on these things delicately yet with hard honesty at the same time and I really admire that. It's really great to see someone be so level-headed about topics like this. Booktube definitely changed my buying habits... to the point where I now have too many books that I regret buying when I was younger. I'm learning now that wow, I need to pay for things like college, I can't afford this anymore, and am altering my decision-making process. I still do the occasional book haul, but I never want it to be like it was a few years ago. I will try to spread this like wildfire because I too want people to know that Booktube is for everyone who enjoys books, whether they buy a ton each month or borrow from a friend or library. (another related issue is also things like expensive cameras and lights- it's okay if people have those but also okay to film on a webcam or phone!)
You make some great points about the cost. I know I've blown wayyy too much money on books over the past 1.5 years I've been watching BookTube. It adds up fast. I try to shop smart, bargain places like used bookstores, online and real life. It is unhealthy about it sometimes and I am trying to learn and get better about it. Cause let's be honest, this body is not a money-generating factory XD I'm much better than I was awhile and always looking to improve. I'm very lucky that my local library is fantastic. But you're right, no one should feel bad about buying/not buying books. "If you can't afford it, you can't afford it" is the bottom line! It's an up-and-down process of learning how to do it in moderation for me. Thanks for the motivation to stick with it! :)
leaninglights Also, I have no idea what drama went down about this video, but I think it's very positive and is an important topic. I really don't get the backlash (nor do I even know what it was haha).
Yass! I am so happy that you've spoken about this subject because I've seen so many videos where the person is like, "I did need money for my trip, but a book was so worth more." and I don't understand why they're like that at all. There are libraries to use and there's always FREE books on iBooks, Kindle, etc. They don't always have to spend money. In fact, I know a shit ton of people who sell their books (brilliant conditions) for just the postage price.
here in malaysia a paperback is $50-60. i didn't think about it when i started my channel which i meant to become strictly a booktube channel. so i did other things like vlogs and stuff and never once did i think about using the library! thank you! xx
Great video! I'm subbing right now! I'm so glad I broke my book buying habit a few years ago. I just started making & watching booktube videos. The first thing I thought was does any body use the library these days! I also thought I would go before if I tried to keep up with these booktubers It's actually been about a year since I purchased a book. I'm so thankful the library is right around the corner from my job. Also the thrift store is my favorite place to buy books.
There are also so many free or cheap ebooks on Amazon and Google Play, and if people are keen to keep up with the latest releases, they are at least cheaper as ebooks. I know some people look down on electronic reading, but, one you can always buy the book later if you love it, and two who is going to know you're using an e-reader if when you talk about your books you edit in a picture of the book cover. I love it when booktubers edit in the cover image, I find it so hard read the cover when people wave it around, especially if I want to add it to my TBR. I do think there are quite a few privileged kids on booktube who have reading allowances from their parents, and that's great but it doesn't really reflect the real world.
This video is kind've old now, but it's really what I needed to hear right now. My problem isn't financial, it's more psychological. I wanted to start putting stuff up on booktube, but I've frozen every time I tried to use the camera. I was thinking about recording a voice over and using images, but was afraid it was too unlike the status quo on here. I know it wasn't the exact focus of your video, but regardless, you've given me the courage to at least record something audibly and see how the community takes it. Thanks man, I mean it.
As an observer and watcher of videos on here, I have noticed a pattern among three booktubers in particular (who shall remain nameless, although I'm sure you can guess the three I'm talking about. lol). This is a pattern of doing all these hauls of the same books, reviews of the same books and if that's not bad enough - they all have the same opinions of the same books!! Like, I am so turned off of YA after watching them blather on about this series or that one, and which books the publishers gave them, blah blah blah. They are all young people and I have to wonder how they afford it, and I feel almost resentful that they make booktube seem like a lifestyle rather than a hobby. They are setting an unrealistic precedent for people young and old like me (47) who watch their videos. I have also seen some lesser-known booktubers on here that may not have near the amount of subscribers, but they are just as entertaining and they use a lot of library books in their vids! I agree wholeheartedly with you Richard, thanks for opening up this discussion and for keeping it real. Bravo. :)
***** I know! Wasn't that weird?! Ditto for "Anna & the French Kiss" series, as well as Vampire Academy. I got sick of hearing about those too. I'm sure they are wonderful and people love them, but come on. Broaden your horizons and read something other than YA., people. Just sayin'. I find life more fun and interesting when a person reads more diversely, and I feel the same about booktube vids. I enjoy the ones which feature a wide variety of genres, or lesser- known/ less-hyped books the best. :)
***** Yeah! And then I see those same booktubers who pushed books making videos about hating Overhyped books and acting like they aren't part of the damn problem.
michelle fuller very good observation. Maybe they haven't even read them but pretend to have read them so they could continue to try making videos to make $ from TH-cam or just for attention.
In my experience, the thing is when you're new and you see a channel do one of the massive book hauls and within days their sub count skyrocket, you think "Oh maybe this is what I have to do for new subs to find my channel". lol NO! Long story short, you learn. Because I did, even if it took me 6mo to get there. I was already a library book hoarder before Booktube so I just continued doing that. I don't feel that "pressure" anymore and I'm Ok with not seeing my sub count skyrocket ever because massive hauls aren't happening. Except maybe for my bday! (I save and splurge for my bday. ALWAYS!) XD Thanks for keeping it real!
It's important to remember that leisure reading should be enjoyable and not stressful. I love borrowing books from the library, it's free! One should purchase books that are affordable for them.
I have given up on buying books unless they become one of my ultimate favourites. I love my library, and they have an amazing selection. I bought so many books last summer that I haven't even read. It seems silly now thinking about it. I could have gotten every one of those books for free at my library. For me, I actually love knowing that someone else read this book before me and someone else will read it after me. It's a beautiful cycle. I am a student, who has to think about student loans. Buying books just doesn't fit into my life anymore.
BookEm! That is one of the reasons I love the library too, people get to read the same book and just thinking about how many people have read it is awesome.
great suggestions on using libraries. I just went to one today! I think you talked about very important key points. I do believe that people can spend their money on what they want to, and if they would like to spend their money on books, then so be it. it's definitely unhealthy to be spending your money on books if you're not able to pay your bills, but I think that if it's a hobby to booktube and show the books you buy and read, then that's okay. Because people have free wills and can do whatever they please. I can't really say much about that because I receive almost all of my books for free (which I'm so surprised by and thankful for) but I can definitely see where you're coming from.
Great point of view, I am no BookTuber but appreciate the love you are throwing towards libraries and used book stores. Libraries are fucking great and don't get nearly enough props for the FREE BOOKS that they offer. I'm guilty of feeling like I "need" certain books on my bookshelf but I download a shit ton of kindle books or audiobooks and real deal books from the library. Awesome, thanks for the video.
Thank you for addressing this issue. I haven't been following Book Tube for very long, maybe some months. I have been stunned to see how many books people buy, especially at once. I can't imagine being that rich. Now, if you are, good for you. My view is that people have the right to buy whatever they want with their own hard earned money. But it does get annoying when you see people buying so many books at a time that you know it's impossible to get them read anytime soon. It does seem that Book Tube has gone from focusing on the content of books to just... a shopping list.
I totally agree. I use a mixture of bookshops and charity shops at the moment and am going to join the library soon as I don't have unlimited room to stack books either!
I buy tons of used books so I feel ya on this one! Yes, it’s wonderful to have the hard back brand new beautiful version but it’s not always feasible!!
Awesome. I love books and I love discussion of books, but I read weird stuff and don't have much use for people who just do hauls of stacks of books from desperate publishers and never discuss their content, ever. Unless, of course, the movie version is coming out. Consumerism can infect anything! I've subscribed, I'm so glad you're addressing this (hopefully younger people trying to catch up will take it to heart). Have fun at the library! (Does yours have a book sale section? I've gotten a massive amount of quality stuff for 25 cents-$1 each.)
Stephanie Crawford Library book sales are the best! All the libraries near me have yearly sales (or more frequently), one of which is a 10 Cent paperback sale. One library I frequent always has a shelf of sale books and another two have a dedicated book store to sell donated books.
I totally agree with this video, thanks for making it!! I'm a huge library user and for a while I didn't want to start a channel because I don't buy books, but after hearing you and seeing a handful of other booktubers who don't buy a lot of books I'm inspired to represent us library users on booktube!
I buy a lot of used books on BetterWorldBooks. They may not have all the newest books but it's a nice alternative. Another way I save money is reading ebooks. They are usually cheaper in general and a lot of times there are huge discounts on them. I don't go to the library as often anymore because I only read in English but live in Germany so (obviously) there are mostly German books in the library. I am moving to the UK soon though and once I'm settled there I want to start going to the library and get my books there :)
YAAAS PREACH!!!! Libraries, used bookstores, and thrift stores are where it's at! With booktube there is way too much pressure to buy ALL of the books the second they come out when they're crazy expensive. Ummm no, I am way too broke for that shit, I'll wait until I can find it super cheap or find it in my library. I mean if you have the money for that more power to you, go ahead and do you. As always, great discussion video. I'm glad someone finally brought this up.
I wish people would stop feeling the need to conform to what's popular. Because what makes a successful community is diversity. It's not all about massive book hauls and showing off a huge collection of hardback books with pretty covers on your shelves. Although, yes I get that they get the most views. You can still do hauls from cheaper alternatives like you suggested. I personally like ebooks, so Overdrive and when ebooks go on sale for like $1.99 is where I thrive. There are. also a ton of book giveaways out there (blogs, Twitter, Goodreads); I'm not even a booktuber nor a blogger and I've won several. If you're worried about content, there are so many other options besides constantly buying expensive books to show off. You can also build your content by doing book reviews, discussions, tags, etc. Hopefully once you have a enough viewership, you can start requesting review copies from publishers.
Wow, books are actually that expensive in America?? :O I just go to my local super market and can get a paper back for £5-£7 Or a hardback for £9-£11. But I only spend money on new books when it's a book I have read and LOVED, I get most of my books from charity shops (thrift stores) or the library. I can't re-read many books, what's the point in a collection when you don't read them anyway.
Hey man you make some interesting points in your discussion there! I've only just recently joined the world of TH-cam and doing book related videos (2 so far) because, even though I have friends, not a lot of them are into reading as much as I am, so I joined in the hopes to meet people that had that same sort of enthusiasm and quirky attitudes towards books that I myself have. I've never been one for libraries - I just sit and read at home or work, my parents get annoyed at me when I take a book out during a family trip but I love reading. So I'm just hoping to meet some really cool people that enjoy books as much as I do because that's why I joined - but really enjoyed listening to your video, and thanks for sharing!
I don't have a paying job at the moment, so affording books is nearly impossible...BUT I don't let that stop me. I get some books for cheap at yard sales when I earn money from selling off things I have...and the church(es I visit one in another city) have "book nooks" that work on a barter system. I think we should all get into the barter system. Give a book get a book. Even a little cafe I've gone to in Canada had that. I love it, it's one of the best ways not only to get new books, but also to make new bookish friends.
Absolutely love this discussion video, too often people gloss over how it's unhealthy to buy so many books in one month to the point where there's no way they could ever read them. Love your honesty, and I can totally relate I personally buy my books used all of the time whether its from goodwill or a local used bookshop, or just picking up something from the library. It seems like at some points booktube starts to become a competition of who has the most books or nicest collection or biggest book haul instead of focusing on the actual content of the books and it is just increasingly frustrating. I am sooo glad you shared this because I'm sure there are so many other people who feel this way!
I hate how there is so much pressure to have all the newest books day of release. I'm a stay at home mom and while my husband's job allows us some spending cash on our hobbies, i pretty much rely on my library for the newest books or ones that have been on my tbr forever. I do enjoy buying books when i can, like with birthday money or Christmas but they are very expensive and i cant afford it. To me going to the library is like shopping for books lol it makes me giddy and excited because if i didn't have the library, Chances are i wouldn't have the opportunity to read half of the books i do. I also think people shouldn't be afraid to review older books because there are so many that get forgotten about in the over hype of new stuff. This was an awesome video, and hopefully it will help some people who were scared off by the feeling of needing to spend tons of money to make videos and realize library hauls are just as fun to film and watch 😊
LauraZReads KEY WORD OF BOOKTUBE: PRESSURE. Pressure is everywhere on BookTube. I won't mention names but the very well known BookTubers do this expensive book hauls where they buy like three hundred dollars worth of books and they show it off to us. Jokingly or not, it's kind of offensive to some people including me. Like, "This next section is books to me from publishers". Just gonna rub it in like that? Cool. Way to make us feel boring as eff. I agree with you on the library hauls. I kind of like those more than actually book hauls at times.
i think you did a fantastic job on bringing this topic to light in the most respectful way. me for instance i used to buy a lot of books when i had money to do so or i bought used books at my library when i could but with being in school and making cash payments towards my tuition it's hard because i work and am in school for culinary,because i basically only have money for a cellphone bill and my transportation pass for the month. but i think if you basically do library hauls or find cheap places to get books there are places to do it used book stores are awesome. can't wait for your book how far into writing it are you?
***** when it comes out i hope to read it and tell you how much i loved it. people that are small boooktubers need to hear this and be more into finding other outlets. the library is my favorite place on the planet and i don't pay a cent for the books.
I stumbled across Booktube a few days ago and can't tell you how glad I was to find this video. I was starting to wonder if library books and ebooks were somehow off limits. (For years now, I've written about books on my blog and it's almost all library books or review copies.) Then this morning I've been watching videos about how unfair it is that some people have bigger budgets or better cameras or lighting or whatever other advantages... Thanks for sharing ideas that are so down to earth and common sense.
Though this video is five years old, I'm so glad I found it. Thinking about joining the community and I was a bit hesitant just because I can't afford to splurge on books. Also, I don't have the space for a bunch of new books. But with that said, I feel blessed to have a library card and a library where I can have access to books I would otherwise not have access to. Thank you for your words and video!
Also, I dont think it is a priority to have an actual copy of the book you want to talk about in your videos. Im perfectly ok with a graphic. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that! I dont know why people get so worked up about that. As long as I can see what the cover of the book you are refering to looks like then Im good. You dont have to buy/own a book in order for you to be able to talk about/discuss it in your videos. Booktube is supposed to be about discussing books and sharing a passion for books. Having a physical book in your hands does not make your content magically better.That fact that you read a book and have an opinion about it or are interested in a book and want to share your interest is what's important!
I am so glad to see some one highlight this. I thought it was just me but affording the massive stacks of books that I see on some of these videos are out the question for me. And you are right on target about the library. I don't check out books much but I love the book sales. People should not sleep on thrift shops either you would be surprise how many new or like new books you can find as well as early editions of timeless classics.
This has been a topic that is on my mind. Even though I am not a book tuber I have Been wanting to start a channel. I'm glad you've made this video because I just don't understand why the library is not an option. Not just the library but the other options. I'm glad u made this and I will be sharing for sure!
Soooo... I love your videos! You keep it all the way real, and I very much appreciate it! I know this is a few months old, but I just wanted to let you know that I just started my booktube channel 2/3 days ago, and your videos are some of the ones that gave me the push to do it. I do buy books, but maybe just not as often as some people, and I was afraid that I wouldn't measure up. But you reminded me that I can do what I want with my channel, and that my thoughts/opinions/methods are no less valid just because they aren't the "norm." Anywho, although I don't typically read the same books as you, I watch so many of your videos because I vibe with your personality, lol. So again - THANK YOU; I appreciate everything that you bring to Booktube!
I just found your channel! Bravo for this video!! I grew up buying books. My parents worked a lot so I think the bookstore on Saturday was a way for them to feel less guilty for leaving alone so much. It really never occurred to me to go to the library. Confession: I didn't get my first library card until I was 30! I realized how much money I was spending on crappy books(this was before goodreads and booktube)and books I never read. I was also running out of space! Anyway, I love the library and being able to read anything that interests for fucking FREE!! If I love something, then I'll buy it.
Yesssss!!! You are speaking the truth! I can not afford anything let alone books so I am at the library all the time! I loved your video and I love how your so willing to talk about the touchy subjects! Wish I had a friend like you..I feel like life would be easier lol :) keep doin what your doin because your damn good at it!
Love this, thanks for sharing! I wish the nice library was closer to me (over an hour away) but as a schoolteacher I also enjoy seeing what practically new books people ditch at the Goodwill (especially YA and middle grade) and I can swoop them up for $1 each :) Enjoyed this bookish peptalk!
I'm so glad that you made this video because before I started my channel, that was something I really worried about. I'm a person that used to only get books at the library unless I really wanted it, then I would go to a bookstore. I really just started going to bookstores more but the library is definitely still the way to go. Waaay cheaper to get a load of books that you want to read. Thank you for being honest!
I'm not sure what it's like in the US but in the UK charity shops are an amazing place to go and look for books. If it is a bigger charity shop then the selection is usually pretty vast and the books can literally be just £1. Plus the fact that your money goes to a good cause. It's a win-win situation. I love buying books brand new and I'm lucky enough that I can, but I'm sure there'll come a time in my life when I'm hard up for money and you better believe when that happens that I won't be buying no full priced books. This is a great video Richard, as usual :).
Alexandra Nunney Thank you Alexandra. We have Charity shops here too but not as much. The one I always go to is The Discovery Shop where everything they make goes to children's hospitals.
This is such a fantastic conversation! I hate that people are being made to feel that they need to own all these books to create content, when it should be about what we thought about the books however we read them, whether it's new or secondhand or from the library! I've always felt weird about hauls - the idea of sitting down and saying 'Hey, look what I bought!!!' is just so weird! There are a lot of books on my shelf that I have collected over quite a bit of time, including a lot of second hand stuff, but I've gotten into really bad habits about buying new books since being on booktube and it is a problem that I need to deal with because it's stupid! So many of us are never going to have 'perfect' looking shelves full of books like some people out there, but that should be fine because we are a community made up of people with different ideas, tastes, and backgrounds, and that should be enough to make our content amazing and diverse no matter how we are reading! I'ma shut up now.
This is so true! I fully agree with what you say in your video. I can't afford to buy many books anymore (I do have some unread ones), so I go to the library a lot. I became a member last December and I've been borrowing lots of books since then. I do like owning a book if I loved it but I also don't see why more BookTubers aren't using the library. I love my library. The only books I buy nowadays are really cheap ones, from the charity shop and ex-library copies, with an exception from time to time on a book I really want but can't find in the charity shop nor in the library. I live in the Netherlands, so if the book hasn't been translated into Dutch, or I'm desperate to have the English version (some translations are shitty), it can be hard to find it sometimes, so I usually order those online once I have saved up enough money for it. I loved this video, I couldn't agree more with what you are saying.
Libraries are the greatest things ever invented! I go to the library at least 4 times a month. It confuses me on why a lot of booktubers don't use their local libraries. It's free books and if you don't like the book you're reading, you don't have to feel bad about spending money on it!
Becca Ruiz It confuses me as well but I guess to each their own. AND YESS if you get it from the library and hate it, no worries just take it back. No money wasted.
I hate that on Booktube there is such an emphasis on BUYING BOOKS. Not reading them and sharing our thoughts with others. No, it's just who can haul the most books each month.
I think most of us started our channels because we were avid readers and had no one in our lives to talk to about books. TH-cam was our outlet. Where we could find like minded people, discuss books and make friends. I think a few people have forgotten this. We need to stick to our roots. Booktube isn't a competition, no matter how much it feels like one at times.
I could bang on all day about this but I won't. Great discussion as always Richard! Really respect you for having the cojones to put this out there.
RGsDevilship We do need to stick to our roots and get back to what it was that brought us here and the real reason we decided to make channels. It has been forgotten, I agree and it's sad to see booktube turn into a regular, competition driven community. And thank you! I just had to make this video. It was needed.
RGsDevilship Not to mention Booktube makes a chore out of reading. Seems like buying and reading is a HUGE pressure on booktube and I hate it. Literally made me stop reading for awhile. :/
thebookaddiction Gotta get that Goodreads challenge done! Seriously though, reading is just a hobby. Nobody should be stressing out about it.
RGsDevilship I stopped doing the challenge. Wasnt fun. :( Im getting back into reading now
RGsDevilship Pfft fuck that...I never do challenges. if i read I read....don't need a challenge to force me to read.
i do like this discussion, i just wish there was no need for it, you know?
i wish it was understood from the start that booktubing doesn't require the actual act of buying books
i think a lot of people go through the "starting-booktube-book-buying-craze", myself included, which SUCKS because i have so many books i have no desire to read anymore
i agree that there is some pressure to buy books because the larger booktubers have MASSIVE collections, but this is also their job and half of it is from publishers but i really wish that wasn't the case
but i hope that in the future everyone understands that there are tons of alternatives to buying books to maintain a booktube channel and that money really shouldn't be a massive factor in this community
emmmabooks I hope in the future everyone understands that too! Thanks Emma :)
I swear by my local salvation army. the books are 25 cents and once a month they are on sale for 10 cents. I have SO MANY incredible books from there.
PREEEACH
I'm all about the library! and I constantly say that in my videos. if I had bought all the books I read this year I would have easily spent over $300. I ain't got time fo dat
sarawithoutanH Aint nobody got time fo dat! lol
Love this SOOOO much, boo! You're so right! I realized a long time ago that I am not about to screw myself over in order to try and keep up with other people's book buying habits. Booktube is what you make it. It's about the love of books, not how many books you can haul per month in a video! I don't do book hauls anymore and that's honestly by choice. I will do hauls from events I've gone too, but those hauls are intentional. I honestly just do what makes me happy. And that's the BEST advice I can give anyone in booktube. Do what works for YOU and no one else. And yes yes yes to the library. It's seriously one of our greatest gems!
LuLo Fangirl YESS Booktube is what you make it! YASSS to the library.
You think $11 or $12 is an expensive paperback!?!?!?!!
In australia paperbacks are $20 - $30. its some serious bullshit. D:
thats why book depository is my bae.
LilyLexicon OMG that's just too much! my heart goes out to you in Australia.
***** it's a hard knock life 4 us.
Oh my goodness that's why my book is so expensive in Australia! I thought mine was just different .... ha. I was like "why is it so much??? :( :(" haha
Another option: If you can't stand handling used books, but like to read electronically, many public libraries (U.S.) have online collections. They even have audiobooks! It's free and there are no late fees!
+bhbrewster YES that too!
I agree with everything you said. Some booktubers hold up huge stacks of books every month and eventually your just like seriously?? How do they spend that much money? It can get unhealthy when your priorities get messed up.
Some famous booktubers do not spend money on books. Publishing companies give them. :)
leslie evans i get surprised when i see allot of booktubers with like 50 + books n there all brand new it's like what the hell the places i get most of my books are in library books sales because if u wait till the end of the library book sales they say you can have a bag of books for a pound so i get like 10+ books in a bag for a £1 bargain also charity shops are amazing too because in my area i have found new books just released in a charity shop for £1
but the library is my home away from home the librarian's know me by name i am there so often lol
Well, like Raven already said, there are sales all over. I recently got over 40 books for less than 5$. It was 1$ a bag and you could stuff in as many books in the bag as would fit. Almost all were in like new condition. There is also a bargain book warehouse near me where every book is 1$. Also, Amazon has great 'like new' used books for about 4$ (including shipping), I get many from there, as well. If you saw my bookshelves youd think I broke the bank every day on books, but I didnt at all.
When i saw the drama i had to know what all the tea is about it lol but honestly this is so true because people feel obligated to buy books because of all these shelf tours and you see a million books on cute shelves and book hauls because they get alot of views and people need to know good content doesn't come from showing off the newest and latest books ESPECIALLY when you're just always blindly buying it because of other booktubers and don't know the synopsis to it. I really like this video because when i first joined booktube last year i thought "Oh wow everyone uploads a book haul every month and its the newest books and it gets views i'm gonna do that too." and end up wasting hella money on hyped books that i honestly didn't like that much but because everyone was talking about it i wanted to be in the loop too. I just hope this video gets attention so not only booktube but the book community can understand this subject.
MeBooksAndTheInternet I hope this video finds people who need it. Yes, it's got attention now for a bad reason but at least it's being watched. :)
I can afford brand, new books BUT, I have been watching the Booktube Folks and I stop in at Goodwill and Half- Priced Books all of the time. Now, I have discovered Thriftbooks- love this website. It is a good thing that I do not feel the need to have to read the newest it book. Books have gotten so expensive. The book subscriptions are also good deals. Plus, I would feel guilty spending a lot of money on books and not getting to read them all quickly. Perhaps, the Booktube Community could start giving giveaways with their books?
WORD. Oh man. This is a good convo to have. You should never feel like you should have to keep up with everyone, whether that's in the rate at which people buy or at the rate in which people read books. I learned that lesson a few years back. I'll never keep up with every new release. Heck, I'll never see the number 0 on my TBR shelf.
To touch on the money, yeah, it is a personal choice whether you buy $100 worth of books or you borrow or thrift or have to use your money for other things. I would not want someone to go hungry or homeless because they want to keep up with what everyone else is reading! And yeah, there's other kinds of content to make besides reviews, hauls, wrap-ups. It's a great excuse to stretch yourself creatively! Break the mold! I will say that I am coming from a standpoint of getting books for review from publishers, so I usually buy one book a month unless I'm going to a festival or signing and I have a little extra cash. I don't have a full-time job and I have student loans to pay, so that's also a thing.
Also also also, there have been quite a few "Travelling books" as of late, and I think that can be a great way not to spend so much, but also share the reading experience with others. I know, there's no exact/perfect solution to not acquiring $100 worth of books every month, but I don't think anyone really *needs* to buy/receive more than they can read in the next few months.
Elizziebooks I agree very much this comment, Thanks Liz! :-)
YES! This video is on point. I talked about this with Niki form 'Niki Livesnow' few weeks ago. I started watching booktube when all these scavenger hunts and challenges that require big bookshelf went around. I really enjoyed booktube videos and started playing with the idea about me starting filming, but I felt a bit weird and uncomfortable because I don't have enormous bookshelf. Later I realised that what I was thinking was ridiculous and even realised I like to own books that I liked, but not the ones I didn't really enjoy, so I didn't really want to have huge bookshelf. I will admit it's so nice to see shelves with a lot of books on them behind the people talking and I for the most part don't have problem with them buying books if they can afford. Sometimes do feel that the consumerism is encouraged and I don't really like that. I fell that some people buy books for the sheer act of buying, not for anything else and I don't really support that. But on the end of the day, if they have the money to do it, it's their business and I shouldn't be the one to judge.
404-equivalent You made a lot of great points too. :) Thank you! glad you enjoyed the video.
*****
Thanks! :) (And a lot of grammatical mistakes, I've realised now that I reread it.)
I think it gets people down when they see all the booktubers with huge bookshelves full of beautiful new books and stuff, but I don't understand why people don't use the library more. I absolutely love libraries. Library book hauls are a great idea, but you're right, books are super expensive. I will only buy actual books if I have already read that book and I loved it to the point where I might read it again. Also, if the kindle version is cheaper, I'll definitely go with that. Sometimes I want the paperback just to touch it, but most of the time the kindle version is where it's at for me. That and the library. Usually I'll read the library book first. IF I like it, then I might buy it later on when I got some monies available and my bank account isn't killing me. Also, thrift shops!!! Thrift shops always have book, and yard sales. So many great ideas.
Another thing is that building a bookshelf takes time. You can't buy all the popular books at one time. My bookshelf is tiny if you don't count my e-books. So it takes time, and I think that's the beauty in it. I love collecting things and taking my time on it.
Shit, I should have just made my own video about this in response. Thanks for the video though, because people should know that you don't need to buy the book when there are tons of beautiful libraries out there.
Plus: a lot of those giant book hauls are half given by the pubishers, so no much money spent by those booktubers... And i dont like it when they call themselves 'collectors' and after that make unhauls videos, no much sense to me.
Love the subject and how you bring the library option to the discussion, because... books for free!
Nice video,
Esther.
LectoraEstherica YES books for free!! library lover for life haha
LectoraEstherica Most of those books if they even read them will end up with 4-5 stars on Good reads and nothing to be said about but it was GREAT(BUY IT !) No critical analysis of anything...depressing and sad really.
Geek Pron Vlogs It is.
And i dont like it either when they unhaul those books sent for an "honest review" without read them..
Exactly...they are just showcasing books with no intention of reading them...it is very misleading to their viewers.
It's funny how people are starting drama on twitter because of this. It's so immature. You didn't call out people who buy a lot of books in any way. I buy books and I only use the library every once in a while and yet I did NOT feel offended by this video. This is not a provocative video. You just said "if you don't have the money, don't feel discouraged, you don't need to buy all the books to have a booktube channel".
People who thought their buying habits were being called out need to grow up and realize not everything is about them.
giuliatalkstoomuch I don't get the drama either. It makes no sense. Thank you! :)
I was thinking about this when watching a lot of book tube.
Those people who can buy books are so privileged! But that doesn't mean that people who can't afford books can't read. I discussed this a lot with my literacy development program.
I go to the library a lot and I also buy lots of books from thrift stores and library book sales. I also buy them used online :)
I have so much money to spend on college textbooks that buying fun books is near impossible for me! I spent $50 on like 3 new books once ( because I had been given a B&N gift card) and it was actually a bit painful.... It's hard to enjoy books when I have to spend so much on them haha
Haha, I know right😂sometimes I cringe at the price of books.
I'm so late for this video but I agree wholeheartedly!
I love collecting books, I buy them off websites like Book Outlet or my husband buys them as a surprise. I try not to spend too much money on them, because obviously we have responsibilities and our son's needs and whatnot.
My local library has a WONDERFUL selection! I haven't been there in a while, after I got pregnant I fell in to a 2 year long reading slump so I stopped going. I don't plan on buying any more books for a few months, or at least in bulk anyways.
Nobody should EVER feel guilty for not being able to buy books. Libraries are there for a reason, and they are wonderful. No shame what so ever in hauling from a library!
This is one of your BEST discussion videos. Just have to say!
LOVE that you remind people they can go to the library. I dropped out of booktube for about a year because of the almost "depression" that I couldn't buy all these books to "get viewers" and "keep up with the Joneses". I can't, I've got kids to support - you know? haha.
I love that the community is finally branching out from just YA to other genres, and I am seeing a lot more videos about "bargain books" and "library hauls".
Great video!
+Bunny Cates Thank you Bunny!
WOW! Wonderful and thought provoking video. This is something I think about often, but I've never actually seen someone make a video on it and I'm so glad you did. I would hate to think that some people want to leave because of this. People don't need great book hauls to make good videos. The library is a great thing. Great video!!!
ABasketCaseyReads Very true, book hauls don't make a channel. Thank you!
THANK YOU. As a new booktuber, it can be so frustrating to watch other booktubers haul tons and tons of books a month and feel so left out and disappointing that you don't have hundreds of dollars to spend on books. And I really wish more booktubers would be honest like you and acknowledge with their viewers that they are lucky enough to afford that amount but reassure their subscribers that this is not what it takes to be a "real booktuber" or whatever, so their viewers don't need to feel like they're left out of an elite. I love how honest you are in videos like these, please keep on doing you!!
newyorkbookworm LOVE this comment! thank you:) I wish other booktubers would be as real too. It would do plenty of good. :)
Bless you, Richard. You're the coolest. I understand this topic from first hand, because here in my country books are EXTREMELY expensive, so I rely on ebooks to actually read the books I want to read. LOVED this video!
YYYYYYYYYYYESSSSSSSS, slayin' it AGAIN with this video, Richard!
Seriously, I don't understand people who get defensive as soon as you post a discussion video. Obviously you're trying to genuinely reach out to people who need to hear this, and if someone doesn't need to hear this then they should just ignore it and move on with their life and keep doing their thing!
But YES, it makes me so sad when people say they can't "afford" BookTube. It can definitely be intimidating when we see vloggers with 100K subscribers who use $700 cameras and spend $200 on studio lighting, then drop another $100 a month on books. The natural instinct is to emulate those habits, but it doesn't have to be that way!
Gurl, I ain't about that money-dropping life. I started my channel on my webcam. I use natural lighting and film on my phone's camera. I check books out of my library, buy them secondhand, go to library sales, borrow them from friends, look out for ebook deals, see if they're on BookOutlet, etc. etc. There is NO NEED for anyone to go broke doing BookTube. Because of libraries, books are readily accessible, and you don't need to own a book to talk about it or to start a book-related discussion. IF ONLY MORE PEOPLE REALIZED THIS.
I respect you for getting this message out there, and I hope that the people who need to hear this realize the truth you're telling them. Great video, as always
perpetualpages Watch me slayyy lol Yes, I don't get why people get defensive, it makes no sense. If only more people did realize this, things would be way better. Hopefully this video finds people and makes it better. Thank you Adriana :) you're always amazing.
Thanks for making this video. After a year on BookTube I realized that my book buying has gotten out of control and the money issue really is a huge part of it. Great job, great video.
Chrissy BooksandBerries Thank you Chrissy! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. :D
This video was on point. Your honesty is refreshing and I agree with your points.You handled it in a respectful way as well. I enjoy using my local library and the friends of the library program (basically a warehouse store with $2 hardbacks and $1 paperbacks). There are so many ways to access cheap reading materials. Thank you for the video :) More people should really discuss these things, especially for new booktubers.
From Here to the Stars Thank you! I felt like this video was needed. I love the friends of the library program, you get to buy cheap books and also support your library.
I love your honesty. to me money was why it was so hard for me to even think of starting a channel. until this past weekend I only owned 6 books. but I own tones of ebooks. now I am studying up on editing so people can see the books I talk about. thank you for this video. it is so true that people think that without money you cant do what u love. there is always a way.
+Cyndel Schafer you're so welcome! and thanks for watching. :D
I love how all the twitter drama around your videos usually results in you getting a lot of support, subscribers, positive responses, etc. and just makes the other people look like assholes. Keep doing what you're doing, you're awesome! :)
lxflck RIGHT!!! I'm sitting like "Thanks for the help!" lol
This is why I love you. You don't shy away from topics like money and such. Many Booktubers are just like 'yay books *bookhaul* yay more books *bookhaul*'' and that's it. You always go deeper and discuss topics that are either maybe 'taboo' or BT are too sensitive to talk about and such.
Great discussion! I cannot afford buying books at all let alone buying enough at 'BookTube Standard' xD you bring up the great point of 'you don't have to afford booktube' cos at the end of the day, you're talking about books, that costs nothing and should cost nothing! We should just work with what we got and what libraries have got and never ever think we need money to reach the 'BookTube Standard'. I've noticed booktube has become very centered on how many books you own and buy instead of focusing on reviewing and discussing books and that's definitely something we need to fix and even something like this discussion is a great start to getting back on track of what the point of BookTube is.
Alexandra Bowden Thanks Alexandra! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Booktube needed this video.
This thumbnail hahaha love it. I am glad you made this video although my problem isn't with wanting to buy books, you know I'm all about the library! Mostly I just feel pressure to get more videos out and this is a good reminder that booktube should be fun! I'm going back down to one video a week because it takes up so much time that I just don't have right now.
I do love getting new books but I'm glad you mentioned thrifting because it can be so fun to scrounge through stores and find awesome deals! Those books are more special to me. And don't forget about books for trade!
Laura Rose Reviews Don't feel pressure Laura! you're too awesome. Just make the videos when you can. :)
***** thanks! I love Booktube so much but it takes up a lot of time. I'm about to film a ton of videos so I can get ahead and then read read read
Yasss! I'm a uni student in Australia and books are fucking expensive! I have library hauls on my channel and normal hauls, my June Book Haul might look like a lot of books - I got most of them at thrift shops! I still splurge when I can afford it and buy books because I want to. Not because I feel a pressure because of booktube! We can't all haul 30 books a month, but that doesn't make our content worse then any other booktuber! You want to go haul 30 books every month. go ahead, you want to haul 0 books every month then go ahead. It doesn't matter as everyone can afford booktube!!
BeccaTheBookReviewer LOVED this comment! thank you Becca :)
You literally speak my thoughts, Richard! THIS IS PERFECT AND ACCURATE AND TRUE!
ReadLikeWildFire YAASSS!! thank you Chami
I really do love your honesty in this video. I realise it's a little old now, but I really am so impressed with this honesty. I'm disabled and can't work and struggle to buy books, so on my Booktube channel I'm going to be doing mostly library hauls, and there's nothing wrong with that at all :) Libraries are fun and I've found some great authors that way! ^_^
Thank you for your honesty. It's really touched me today
Amazing video! It is so true! I mostly get my books used from Amazon or used book stores. I plan to get a library card soon and start checking books out as well. I agree, you don't have to buy all the new books, every one is already talking about them anyways, so be different, and check out or buy a used book that's not talked about much. I love hearing about books that not every one is talking about.
You're going to love having your library card! it's amazing :D
Preach!!! I started my account like two months ago and I'm a booktube-ish account and even before I started I felt like I needed to buy all the books people talk about but ain't nobody got that much money. This is all for fun and people shouldn't feel forced to do anything. I hope your booktube friends keep doing TH-cam and I hope everything works out for them.
Marie Vizuete YAAASS! Thank you Marie! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. :D
You're welcome :) and I always enjoy your videos because you speak the truth. There isn't many youtubers that do that so thank you :)
Marie Vizuete Oh wow thank you! yes I always gotta be real. :)
Thanks for posting this, to add onto the library thing people need to start taking advantage of audiobooks from there also! Everyone seems to be sponsoring audible for $$ and sure there's a free trial but after that it's like 15 bucks to listen to someone read to you. Idk, I've only recently realized just how great of a library I have, and though I have plenty of books of my own, I've realized I don't need to be spending so much money on something I can acquire for free.
thebelljarr You're welcome! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. :)
i really like this video. a bad habit that booktube got me in that i'm working on is reading/ buying books that i'm not really interested in. i wasted so much money buying books that everyone else was reading that i "wanted" to read.
I'll be honest when I first started book tubing back in early 2012 I think it was I only bought YA for the most part fast forward to now and I still love YA but what has happened is that through booktube it got me wanting to explore other books and that's where my love for books came from pretty much the whole discovery aspect is fun for me and finding new authors is good too :)
Rachel Michelle Thank you Rachel. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
***** That's great Roger :)
I've only come across two booktubers including yourself who admit to reading library books. The majority of booktube have bought their hauls. Its strange how the larger channels don't use libraries.
It sucks when people turn things into a popularity or status contest. Personally, I don't give a damn how BookTubers get their books. I just like to find people with awesome personalities, who have tastes similar to mine or are vastly different, exposing me to books I might skip over while browsing. It never occurred to me that BookTubers would go broke trying to sustain having huge monthly hauls. What sucks even more is they're probably not even reading all of those books, which is the whole point.
I'm not a BookTuber, but a blogger. I use any means necessary to get the books I want. Libraries are amazing and I use mine frequently. But I still buy books and have an Audible subscription.
Thank you!!! I'm SO glad you said this, booktube does make it look like you've to buy a million plus books. I just made a channel, and I know I can't afford to buy every book that i want to read. i LOVE libraries! I know I'm going to try to spread this message when i start uploading videos. well said!!!
I love that you keep it 100! Great video content as always. I think people watch the book tubers who are buying 15 books a month(who is reading that much really?) and think wow I have to be like them to get viewers. I hate that about Book tube now. I miss the old videos where you watched people get really passionate about books(popular and independent sellers) instead of the few popular books out there. They had actual content talking about books and they weren't all a carbon Copy of each other. No shame in the library or thrift store books. Hopefully, your video will inspire more people to make video for more than just money.
poppyyukia Thank you! I hope this video will inspire people too. I miss old booktube too sometimes.
i loveeeee you for posting this. this issue needed to be addressed.
glmrklls00 Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. :D
Omg! Thank you so much for making this! You're absolutely right. This is a MAJOR issue that needs to be talked about. I've talked with several people who've wanted to start booktube but they said they were nervous because of the money issue. It's like this community that is so welcoming is already turning some people away. Viewers see the "big booktubers" haul massive amounts of books at a time and some may feel pressured to keep up with them. What they don't realize is, they are receiving a lot of these books for free. This video has inspired me to start a project I've been wanting to do quite some time. I'd love to DM you on Twitter more about it.
Angie's Epic Reads Thank you Angie! all of this is true and can't wait to hear about your project. :)
Thank you for making this video! I'm privileged because I'm able to afford buying books and I feel so bad that people feel like they can't make videos if they can't afford books. People could honestly make videos sitting in front of a white wall talking about a book without having it with them and I would still watch it.
For people who really want to buy books I also recommend the used book section on Amazon. Sometimes they have amazing deals!
sophiereads I agree, The used book section on amazon is amazing!! and thank you for commenting Sophie :D
I loved this conversation video! I don't have any videos on my youtube account. I just love watching booktube and enjoy listening to others talk about books. For me its something that makes me happy. I love your videos Richard and you are a very kind hearted individual. I pray that you will be blessed with all the happiness you deserve.
I go to the library also, as well buying free ebooks for my laptop's Kindle app. I am thinking about trying BookTube. I've been delaying because my family doesn't have internet at home. I do like to shop at thrift and book shops. Thank you for posting this video. I'm already poor and you have given me some encouragement to try BookTube.
I absolutely agree with this video. Thank you for posting it! I love the library and frankly I love reading because I can get books for free from the library. I also love watching library hauls. It makes no difference to me if Book Tubers are showing a library haul or a haul they bought. You will get great book recommendations either way. Growing up we didn't have much money but my world was always rich because of the library. Book Tubers like you that have the courage to post videos like these are going to change the community in a positive way which is awesome. Just to let you know I found this video from video responses that other Book Tubers posted about this video so it is reaching lots of people. People that feel the same way as you. Have a great week, Richard!!
I know I'm like two years late in watching this, but I just found your channel. This video means so much to me. I quit booktube a while back because I felt like I couldn't afford it. Thank you for this. It really does mean a lot. Oh, and I love your channel and I am looking forward to purchasing your book soon!
I'm so glad this video helped you! It really means a lot when anyone says that about this particular video. :)
I'm so happy to see a discussion on this! It is a touchy subject but a very prevalent one. I need to go to the library more, I always forget but I do go to used book stores a TON, and I really like them. This was a great video- good for you for speaking out! :)
Charmedfan2010 Thank you! I felt like this needed a full video and needed some heavy light shed on it. I hope more people find this and feel better. :)
Sad that this even needs to be said, but glad someone said it. I remember leaving comments on videos after the whole Pro/Anti-Library debacle, that it seemed that Booktube was more about buying books, getting free books from publishers/authors, and less about actually READING the books. I would say about 80% of the booktubers I follow take advantage of their local library system and still make plenty of content. The Haul is not the be all, end all, required content that people think it is. It is especially infuriating when I see "famous" booktubers receiving free books and ARCs, but not ever getting around to reading the book until well after release date. Or buying books they aren't sure they will like (or outright know they don't, but have to finish a series). I know people can do what they damn well please with their money, but I don't give a fuck what is on your shelf, I want to hear that you read it and what you think about it!
I bought so many books last year that I have no space for anything else. I am at the point where if I could have my books on Kindle or just borrow from a friend or library, I'd be fine. I feel like watching Booktube made me feel like I HAD to get the newest books when they came out, but it's unhealthy like you said. Finally, someone is talking about this issue. Awesome as always Richard!
***** Thanks James! I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
Absolutely excellent video as always Richard, you handle topics so well and in such a thoughtful way- you touch on these things delicately yet with hard honesty at the same time and I really admire that. It's really great to see someone be so level-headed about topics like this. Booktube definitely changed my buying habits... to the point where I now have too many books that I regret buying when I was younger. I'm learning now that wow, I need to pay for things like college, I can't afford this anymore, and am altering my decision-making process. I still do the occasional book haul, but I never want it to be like it was a few years ago. I will try to spread this like wildfire because I too want people to know that Booktube is for everyone who enjoys books, whether they buy a ton each month or borrow from a friend or library. (another related issue is also things like expensive cameras and lights- it's okay if people have those but also okay to film on a webcam or phone!)
TheLibraryOfSarah Thank you Sarah! it really means a lot. :) And yes, people should feel the need to go crazy buying expensive equipment either.
Great discussion, bud! I have been thinking about starting a discussion about this very thing, so way to go! Xoxo
You make some great points about the cost. I know I've blown wayyy too much money on books over the past 1.5 years I've been watching BookTube. It adds up fast. I try to shop smart, bargain places like used bookstores, online and real life. It is unhealthy about it sometimes and I am trying to learn and get better about it. Cause let's be honest, this body is not a money-generating factory XD I'm much better than I was awhile and always looking to improve. I'm very lucky that my local library is fantastic. But you're right, no one should feel bad about buying/not buying books. "If you can't afford it, you can't afford it" is the bottom line! It's an up-and-down process of learning how to do it in moderation for me. Thanks for the motivation to stick with it! :)
leaninglights Also, I have no idea what drama went down about this video, but I think it's very positive and is an important topic. I really don't get the backlash (nor do I even know what it was haha).
leaninglights Thank you Shannon! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Yeah I don't get the drama either. This was a pretty positive video.
This is amazing. I need to share this with everyone I know. This is sending a great message!
Yass! I am so happy that you've spoken about this subject because I've seen so many videos where the person is like, "I did need money for my trip, but a book was so worth more." and I don't understand why they're like that at all. There are libraries to use and there's always FREE books on iBooks, Kindle, etc. They don't always have to spend money. In fact, I know a shit ton of people who sell their books (brilliant conditions) for just the postage price.
The BookBitch Oh wow, what people will do for books lmao
here in malaysia a paperback is $50-60. i didn't think about it when i started my channel which i meant to become strictly a booktube channel. so i did other things like vlogs and stuff and never once did i think about using the library! thank you! xx
Good luck with your library finds!! :D
This is my first video to watch of yours... I LOVE IT !! I'm off to watch more :)
+Jacks Lo (Lo Lita) YAY!! thank you :)
Great video! I'm subbing right now! I'm so glad I broke my book buying habit a few years ago. I just started making & watching booktube videos. The first thing I thought was does any body use the library these days! I also thought I would go before if I tried to keep up with these booktubers It's actually been about a year since I purchased a book. I'm so thankful the library is right around the corner from my job. Also the thrift store is my favorite place to buy books.
FreeFormLady Thank you!! :) YES for the library and the thrift store! I don't know where I'd be without them.
There are also so many free or cheap ebooks on Amazon and Google Play, and if people are keen to keep up with the latest releases, they are at least cheaper as ebooks. I know some people look down on electronic reading, but, one you can always buy the book later if you love it, and two who is going to know you're using an e-reader if when you talk about your books you edit in a picture of the book cover. I love it when booktubers edit in the cover image, I find it so hard read the cover when people wave it around, especially if I want to add it to my TBR. I do think there are quite a few privileged kids on booktube who have reading allowances from their parents, and that's great but it doesn't really reflect the real world.
Anna Starseed Free ebooks are from the godss!!
Thank you for putting this video out there, this subject isn't talked about enough, you do you Richard💪🏻
Heir of Tomes Thank you for watching! It is true it's not talked about enough. I hope this video helps others.
This video is kind've old now, but it's really what I needed to hear right now. My problem isn't financial, it's more psychological. I wanted to start putting stuff up on booktube, but I've frozen every time I tried to use the camera.
I was thinking about recording a voice over and using images, but was afraid it was too unlike the status quo on here.
I know it wasn't the exact focus of your video, but regardless, you've given me the courage to at least record something audibly and see how the community takes it.
Thanks man, I mean it.
As an observer and watcher of videos on here, I have noticed a pattern among three booktubers in particular (who shall remain nameless, although I'm sure you can guess the three I'm talking about. lol). This is a pattern of doing all these hauls of the same books, reviews of the same books and if that's not bad enough - they all have the same opinions of the same books!! Like, I am so turned off of YA after watching them blather on about this series or that one, and which books the publishers gave them, blah blah blah. They are all young people and I have to wonder how they afford it, and I feel almost resentful that they make booktube seem like a lifestyle rather than a hobby. They are setting an unrealistic precedent for people young and old like me (47) who watch their videos. I have also seen some lesser-known booktubers on here that may not have near the amount of subscribers, but they are just as entertaining and they use a lot of library books in their vids! I agree wholeheartedly with you Richard, thanks for opening up this discussion and for keeping it real. Bravo. :)
michelle fuller I will always keep it real, Thank you Michelle :)
***** I know! Wasn't that weird?! Ditto for "Anna & the French Kiss" series, as well as Vampire Academy. I got sick of hearing about those too. I'm sure they are wonderful and people love them, but come on. Broaden your horizons and read something other than YA., people. Just sayin'. I find life more fun and interesting when a person reads more diversely, and I feel the same about booktube vids. I enjoy the ones which feature a wide variety of genres, or lesser- known/ less-hyped books the best. :)
***** Yeah! And then I see those same booktubers who pushed books making videos about hating Overhyped books and acting like they aren't part of the damn problem.
*cough*abookutopia*cough*
michelle fuller very good observation. Maybe they haven't even read them but pretend to have read them so they could continue to try making videos to make $ from TH-cam or just for attention.
In my experience, the thing is when you're new and you see a channel do one of the massive book hauls and within days their sub count skyrocket, you think "Oh maybe this is what I have to do for new subs to find my channel". lol NO!
Long story short, you learn. Because I did, even if it took me 6mo to get there.
I was already a library book hoarder before Booktube so I just continued doing that. I don't feel that "pressure" anymore and I'm Ok with not seeing my sub count skyrocket ever because massive hauls aren't happening.
Except maybe for my bday! (I save and splurge for my bday. ALWAYS!) XD
Thanks for keeping it real!
Akossiwa K I will always keep it real! thank you
It's important to remember that leisure reading should be enjoyable and not stressful.
I love borrowing books from the library, it's free!
One should purchase books that are affordable for them.
I have given up on buying books unless they become one of my ultimate favourites. I love my library, and they have an amazing selection. I bought so many books last summer that I haven't even read. It seems silly now thinking about it. I could have gotten every one of those books for free at my library. For me, I actually love knowing that someone else read this book before me and someone else will read it after me. It's a beautiful cycle. I am a student, who has to think about student loans. Buying books just doesn't fit into my life anymore.
BookEm! That is one of the reasons I love the library too, people get to read the same book and just thinking about how many people have read it is awesome.
great suggestions on using libraries. I just went to one today! I think you talked about very important key points. I do believe that people can spend their money on what they want to, and if they would like to spend their money on books, then so be it. it's definitely unhealthy to be spending your money on books if you're not able to pay your bills, but I think that if it's a hobby to booktube and show the books you buy and read, then that's okay. Because people have free wills and can do whatever they please. I can't really say much about that because I receive almost all of my books for free (which I'm so surprised by and thankful for) but I can definitely see where you're coming from.
LovingDemBooks Thanks Grace! Yay for the library!
Such a great video and so well spoken!!!
+Blue Sargent Thank you so much :)
Great point of view, I am no BookTuber but appreciate the love you are throwing towards libraries and used book stores. Libraries are fucking great and don't get nearly enough props for the FREE BOOKS that they offer. I'm guilty of feeling like I "need" certain books on my bookshelf but I download a shit ton of kindle books or audiobooks and real deal books from the library. Awesome, thanks for the video.
Thank you for addressing this issue. I haven't been following Book Tube for very long, maybe some months. I have been stunned to see how many books people buy, especially at once. I can't imagine being that rich. Now, if you are, good for you. My view is that people have the right to buy whatever they want with their own hard earned money. But it does get annoying when you see people buying so many books at a time that you know it's impossible to get them read anytime soon. It does seem that Book Tube has gone from focusing on the content of books to just... a shopping list.
Yesica1993 IT has gone to that, I agree! but it won't stop lol people will keeping doing it.
I totally agree. I use a mixture of bookshops and charity shops at the moment and am going to join the library soon as I don't have unlimited room to stack books either!
I buy tons of used books so I feel ya on this one! Yes, it’s wonderful to have the hard back brand new beautiful version but it’s not always feasible!!
Awesome. I love books and I love discussion of books, but I read weird stuff and don't have much use for people who just do hauls of stacks of books from desperate publishers and never discuss their content, ever. Unless, of course, the movie version is coming out. Consumerism can infect anything!
I've subscribed, I'm so glad you're addressing this (hopefully younger people trying to catch up will take it to heart). Have fun at the library! (Does yours have a book sale section? I've gotten a massive amount of quality stuff for 25 cents-$1 each.)
Stephanie Crawford Thank you for subscribing! I'm happy people are loving this video. It was needed.
Stephanie Crawford Library book sales are the best! All the libraries near me have yearly sales (or more frequently), one of which is a 10 Cent paperback sale. One library I frequent always has a shelf of sale books and another two have a dedicated book store to sell donated books.
I totally agree with this video, thanks for making it!! I'm a huge library user and for a while I didn't want to start a channel because I don't buy books, but after hearing you and seeing a handful of other booktubers who don't buy a lot of books I'm inspired to represent us library users on booktube!
Jade Tinker That makes me so happy!! I'm glad this video helped you. :D
I buy a lot of used books on BetterWorldBooks. They may not have all the newest books but it's a nice alternative. Another way I save money is reading ebooks. They are usually cheaper in general and a lot of times there are huge discounts on them. I don't go to the library as often anymore because I only read in English but live in Germany so (obviously) there are mostly German books in the library. I am moving to the UK soon though and once I'm settled there I want to start going to the library and get my books there :)
faeriedrugs I've heard of BetterWorldBooks, might have to check that out. Thanks :)
YAAAS PREACH!!!! Libraries, used bookstores, and thrift stores are where it's at! With booktube there is way too much pressure to buy ALL of the books the second they come out when they're crazy expensive. Ummm no, I am way too broke for that shit, I'll wait until I can find it super cheap or find it in my library. I mean if you have the money for that more power to you, go ahead and do you. As always, great discussion video. I'm glad someone finally brought this up.
vintagebibliophile Way too broke for that shit is my motto LOL I'm glad you enjoyed this video. :D
I wish people would stop feeling the need to conform to what's popular. Because what makes a successful community is diversity. It's not all about massive book hauls and showing off a huge collection of hardback books with pretty covers on your shelves. Although, yes I get that they get the most views. You can still do hauls from cheaper alternatives like you suggested. I personally like ebooks, so Overdrive and when ebooks go on sale for like $1.99 is where I thrive. There are. also a ton of book giveaways out there (blogs, Twitter, Goodreads); I'm not even a booktuber nor a blogger and I've won several.
If you're worried about content, there are so many other options besides constantly buying expensive books to show off. You can also build your content by doing book reviews, discussions, tags, etc. Hopefully once you have a enough viewership, you can start requesting review copies from publishers.
ready2run2006 And even people like me who do not vlog or blog can get review copies, from sites like NetGalley.
Wow, books are actually that expensive in America?? :O
I just go to my local super market and can get a paper back for £5-£7 Or a hardback for £9-£11.
But I only spend money on new books when it's a book I have read and LOVED, I get most of my books from charity shops (thrift stores) or the library.
I can't re-read many books, what's the point in a collection when you don't read them anyway.
Nerdy AF True
Hey man you make some interesting points in your discussion there! I've only just recently joined the world of TH-cam and doing book related videos (2 so far) because, even though I have friends, not a lot of them are into reading as much as I am, so I joined in the hopes to meet people that had that same sort of enthusiasm and quirky attitudes towards books that I myself have. I've never been one for libraries - I just sit and read at home or work, my parents get annoyed at me when I take a book out during a family trip but I love reading. So I'm just hoping to meet some really cool people that enjoy books as much as I do because that's why I joined - but really enjoyed listening to your video, and thanks for sharing!
+LiterallyAllAboutBooks Thank you for watching!
No problem! It was a good video
I don't have a paying job at the moment, so affording books is nearly impossible...BUT I don't let that stop me. I get some books for cheap at yard sales when I earn money from selling off things I have...and the church(es I visit one in another city) have "book nooks" that work on a barter system. I think we should all get into the barter system. Give a book get a book. Even a little cafe I've gone to in Canada had that. I love it, it's one of the best ways not only to get new books, but also to make new bookish friends.
Eliza King So glad you keep going! :D
Absolutely love this discussion video, too often people gloss over how it's unhealthy to buy so many books in one month to the point where there's no way they could ever read them. Love your honesty, and I can totally relate I personally buy my books used all of the time whether its from goodwill or a local used bookshop, or just picking up something from the library. It seems like at some points booktube starts to become a competition of who has the most books or nicest collection or biggest book haul instead of focusing on the actual content of the books and it is just increasingly frustrating. I am sooo glad you shared this because I'm sure there are so many other people who feel this way!
BooksAreBliss YAY for thrift stores! and thank you! I hope other people find this video helpful too.
I hate how there is so much pressure to have all the newest books day of release. I'm a stay at home mom and while my husband's job allows us some spending cash on our hobbies, i pretty much rely on my library for the newest books or ones that have been on my tbr forever.
I do enjoy buying books when i can, like with birthday money or Christmas but they are very expensive and i cant afford it. To me going to the library is like shopping for books lol it makes me giddy and excited because if i didn't have the library, Chances are i wouldn't have the opportunity to read half of the books i do.
I also think people shouldn't be afraid to review older books because there are so many that get forgotten about in the over hype of new stuff.
This was an awesome video, and hopefully it will help some people who were scared off by the feeling of needing to spend tons of money to make videos and realize library hauls are just as fun to film and watch 😊
LauraZReads Thank you Laura! I hope people find this video too and feel better.
LauraZReads KEY WORD OF BOOKTUBE: PRESSURE. Pressure is everywhere on BookTube. I won't mention names but the very well known BookTubers do this expensive book hauls where they buy like three hundred dollars worth of books and they show it off to us. Jokingly or not, it's kind of offensive to some people including me. Like, "This next section is books to me from publishers". Just gonna rub it in like that? Cool. Way to make us feel boring as eff.
I agree with you on the library hauls. I kind of like those more than actually book hauls at times.
i think you did a fantastic job on bringing this topic to light in the most respectful way. me for instance i used to buy a lot of books when i had money to do so or i bought used books at my library when i could but with being in school and making cash payments towards my tuition it's hard because i work and am in school for culinary,because i basically only have money for a cellphone bill and my transportation pass for the month. but i think if you basically do library hauls or find cheap places to get books there are places to do it used book stores are awesome. can't wait for your book how far into writing it are you?
***** Thank you! I'm glad this video came out right. the book I am writing now is still a bit away from being done but it's going well. :)
***** when it comes out i hope to read it and tell you how much i loved it. people that are small boooktubers need to hear this and be more into finding other outlets. the library is my favorite place on the planet and i don't pay a cent for the books.
I stumbled across Booktube a few days ago and can't tell you how glad I was to find this video. I was starting to wonder if library books and ebooks were somehow off limits. (For years now, I've written about books on my blog and it's almost all library books or review copies.) Then this morning I've been watching videos about how unfair it is that some people have bigger budgets or better cameras or lighting or whatever other advantages... Thanks for sharing ideas that are so down to earth and common sense.
Love this. Used book stores are my favorite! You can find books cheaper online too! Also yes, libraries!
Though this video is five years old, I'm so glad I found it. Thinking about joining the community and I was a bit hesitant just because I can't afford to splurge on books. Also, I don't have the space for a bunch of new books. But with that said, I feel blessed to have a library card and a library where I can have access to books I would otherwise not have access to. Thank you for your words and video!
Also, I dont think it is a priority to have an actual copy of the book you want to talk about in your videos. Im perfectly ok with a graphic. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that! I dont know why people get so worked up about that. As long as I can see what the cover of the book you are refering to looks like then Im good. You dont have to buy/own a book in order for you to be able to talk about/discuss it in your videos. Booktube is supposed to be about discussing books and sharing a passion for books. Having a physical book in your hands does not make your content magically better.That fact that you read a book and have an opinion about it or are interested in a book and want to share your interest is what's important!
I am so glad to see some one highlight this. I thought it was just me but affording the massive stacks of books that I see on some of these videos are out the question for me. And you are right on target about the library. I don't check out books much but I love the book sales. People should not sleep on thrift shops either you would be surprise how many new or like new books you can find as well as early editions of timeless classics.
Chandra Claybon Thanks Chandra! :) this video was needed.
This has been a topic that is on my mind. Even though I am not a book tuber I have Been wanting to start a channel. I'm glad you've made this video because I just don't understand why the library is not an option. Not just the library but the other options. I'm glad u made this and I will be sharing for sure!
juliana wentz Thank you Juliana! I hope that when you start booktubing that you love it. :)
Thank you for making this video I love your honesty
+TheRainbowBookTuber Thank you!
Soooo... I love your videos! You keep it all the way real, and I very much appreciate it! I know this is a few months old, but I just wanted to let you know that I just started my booktube channel 2/3 days ago, and your videos are some of the ones that gave me the push to do it. I do buy books, but maybe just not as often as some people, and I was afraid that I wouldn't measure up. But you reminded me that I can do what I want with my channel, and that my thoughts/opinions/methods are no less valid just because they aren't the "norm." Anywho, although I don't typically read the same books as you, I watch so many of your videos because I vibe with your personality, lol. So again - THANK YOU; I appreciate everything that you bring to Booktube!
+Perspicacity913 I'm so glad you started booktubing! welcome welcome :DD thank you.
I just found your channel! Bravo for this video!! I grew up buying books. My parents worked a lot so I think the bookstore on Saturday was a way for them to feel less guilty for leaving alone so much. It really never occurred to me to go to the library. Confession: I didn't get my first library card until I was 30! I realized how much money I was spending on crappy books(this was before goodreads and booktube)and books I never read. I was also running out of space! Anyway, I love the library and being able to read anything that interests for fucking FREE!! If I love something, then I'll buy it.
FREEE!! right! haha
Yesssss!!! You are speaking the truth! I can not afford anything let alone books so I am at the library all the time! I loved your video and I love how your so willing to talk about the touchy subjects! Wish I had a friend like you..I feel like life would be easier lol :) keep doin what your doin because your damn good at it!
kwells7788 We are friends! :) thank you :DDD
I wish I had found this sooner! I just started a "Library Haul" thing, so I agree that it's a great alternatives for those who can do that.
Love this, thanks for sharing! I wish the nice library was closer to me (over an hour away) but as a schoolteacher I also enjoy seeing what practically new books people ditch at the Goodwill (especially YA and middle grade) and I can swoop them up for $1 each :) Enjoyed this bookish peptalk!
***** Thank you! I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Who could pass up a book for a dollar? lol
Great conversation. I am loving the realness dude. Please keep the truth coming on TH-cam
+BohemianBookworm Thank you! D:
I'm so glad that you made this video because before I started my channel, that was something I really worried about. I'm a person that used to only get books at the library unless I really wanted it, then I would go to a bookstore. I really just started going to bookstores more but the library is definitely still the way to go. Waaay cheaper to get a load of books that you want to read. Thank you for being honest!
+Caira Coleman (Wired_Cee) Thank you for watching! YESS the library is the way to go.
I'm not sure what it's like in the US but in the UK charity shops are an amazing place to go and look for books. If it is a bigger charity shop then the selection is usually pretty vast and the books can literally be just £1. Plus the fact that your money goes to a good cause. It's a win-win situation.
I love buying books brand new and I'm lucky enough that I can, but I'm sure there'll come a time in my life when I'm hard up for money and you better believe when that happens that I won't be buying no full priced books.
This is a great video Richard, as usual :).
Alexandra Nunney Thank you Alexandra. We have Charity shops here too but not as much. The one I always go to is The Discovery Shop where everything they make goes to children's hospitals.
This is such a fantastic conversation! I hate that people are being made to feel that they need to own all these books to create content, when it should be about what we thought about the books however we read them, whether it's new or secondhand or from the library!
I've always felt weird about hauls - the idea of sitting down and saying 'Hey, look what I bought!!!' is just so weird! There are a lot of books on my shelf that I have collected over quite a bit of time, including a lot of second hand stuff, but I've gotten into really bad habits about buying new books since being on booktube and it is a problem that I need to deal with because it's stupid!
So many of us are never going to have 'perfect' looking shelves full of books like some people out there, but that should be fine because we are a community made up of people with different ideas, tastes, and backgrounds, and that should be enough to make our content amazing and diverse no matter how we are reading!
I'ma shut up now.
Tania Elizabeth Thank you Tania :) I'm glad you enjoyed the video.
This is so true! I fully agree with what you say in your video. I can't afford to buy many books anymore (I do have some unread ones), so I go to the library a lot. I became a member last December and I've been borrowing lots of books since then. I do like owning a book if I loved it but I also don't see why more BookTubers aren't using the library. I love my library. The only books I buy nowadays are really cheap ones, from the charity shop and ex-library copies, with an exception from time to time on a book I really want but can't find in the charity shop nor in the library. I live in the Netherlands, so if the book hasn't been translated into Dutch, or I'm desperate to have the English version (some translations are shitty), it can be hard to find it sometimes, so I usually order those online once I have saved up enough money for it. I loved this video, I couldn't agree more with what you are saying.
Gaia Steinbuch Thank you Gaia! I'm glad you enjoyed this video. :D I hope it helps others .
Libraries are the greatest things ever invented! I go to the library at least 4 times a month. It confuses me on why a lot of booktubers don't use their local libraries. It's free books and if you don't like the book you're reading, you don't have to feel bad about spending money on it!
Becca Ruiz It confuses me as well but I guess to each their own. AND YESS if you get it from the library and hate it, no worries just take it back. No money wasted.
B&N has a free books section also Inkitt is an app that has free indie books that you can read for free