As an organization that works with a mission to encourage reading, this post may appear strange. But hear us out, setting up a budget planner for reading can in fact encourage you to read more!

We all want our kids to fall in love with reading. The problem? Books can get expensive. One minute, you’re buying a bedtime story, and before you know it, your wallet’s feeling lighter than a paperback. 

Here’s the good news—you don’t need to spend a fortune to build a solid reading habit for you or your child. Last year, we shared a budget planning template with our newsletter community, and so, we thought of bringing it back for everyone. Let’s break this down step by step.

Setting up a budget planner for reading

Begin with a monthly or yearly reading goal: About 40% of Americans set goals at the beginning of each year. And this is pretty standard across the world too (i.e., setting goals). Reading should be on your goal list. It’s FUN! You’re more likely to read more, if you set a target. Now whether you read 2 books a month or 20, all goals are fine as long as you stick with them.

Tip: Start with a realistic number for spending based on your reading goals—maybe $10, $20, or even $50, depending on your budget. Books by age differ in pricing (adult non-fiction versus picture books can be a big range), so when you’re making a budget knowing this comes in handy.

Make a reading wishlist

Ask yourself and your child what books you are excited about. Write down the list for the family in your reading app or a notebook. This helps you see how it’s aligned with your reading goals and all the fun reading options you’d like to explore.

Find books in libraries and swaps

Our rule of thumb is this: if it’s a completely new author or independent organization that you’re hoping to support, try to buy the book directly, if you can. If it’s a well known author or publisher, a library is our first access point.

Public libraries are a gift. Try to use Libby (eBooks or Audiobooks) and your neighborhood library to check out a relevant list. You can also buy books second hand. Consider finding used book stores in your city or online. Swapping books with friends and your neighbors is also another idea that works really well.

Reward yourself for your reading!

• Book Tokens: Give yourself or your kid a token for every book read. 10 tokens = pick a new book!
• If you hit monthly goals, give yourself a little prize (think stickers, extra bedtime stories, or even a fun library outing).
• Piggy Bank for Books: If your kid gets an allowance, let them save up for books they are crushing on.
• When you’re traveling, always travel with eBooks, and your stash. This helps avoid last minute airport buys and you’re still on your way to reading wonderful stories.
• And since we always celebrate various occasions at home and with friends, remember books are great gifts. Secret Santa, birthday presents, Valentine’s Day gifts, books can help replace a lot of other impulse buys. When you are ready to buy, consider getting books from Bookshop.org or independent stores in your cities.

Do you have reading goals for this year? Share them with us!