7 Things to Consider Before You Sign Up for a Book Club

There are several book clubs out there that offer a set number of books for the price of one. It is a great deal, but there are things to consider before you sign up.

1. You will commit to purchase a number of books at full-price within a certain amount of time.

When you sign up for most book clubs, you are committing to purchase a set number at full-price within a period of a year or two. Always know what you are getting yourself into and know the terms of the agreement into which you are entering.

2. Are you really that interested in their offerings?

Before you sign-up for any book club, take a good look at what they have to offer. Do they have several titles that you would be interested in purchasing, or just a few? Does it appear that new titles are few and far between, or are they offered regularly? They are questions that you need to ask yourself.

3. There are other ways in which to easily add to your personal library.

Do you really want to spend the money to join a book club? You can get great used books at library sales, used bookstores, and once in a while, garage sales. Are you sure that you want or need brand new books?

4. Realize that you have to opt out of new monthly offerings.

Many new book club members don't realize that you have to opt out of offerings from your book club every month. You can send back any item that you don't wish to keep, but it can get expensive. Be sure to read everything they send you, and send back your card opting out of the monthly selection as soon as you receive it.

5. Consider shipping expenses.

Shipping expenses can equate to the actual prices of the books you ordered, especially in a book club in which many books are highly discounted. They need to be taken into consideration when you purchase anything from a book club, but especially when you make your initial purchase. Chances are that you will have five or more books shipped to you at one time.

6. Make sure that you are joining the right book club for you.

There is a wide variety of book clubs to suit just about any interests. Many are similar. As a result, ensure that you are joining the right one before you sign up. You don't want to make your initial order only to realize that you would be better off having joined a different club.

7. Don't leave too soon.

If you do join the right club and have already met your commitment, why not stay with it? It doesn't cost you anything to remain a member, as long as you return the cards opting out of monthly selections. You might just come across a great deal on a title you've been waiting for, for quite some time. You'll miss out if you leave too soon.