So Long Amazon, Netflix, Blockbuster!

On my journey to cut costs and become more frugal we have made drastic cuts in our entertainment budget. I've always felt we were pretty modest in our entertainment expenses (choosing usually to rent movies verses seeing them in the theatre, buying used books and music on amazon and other sites, going to local community theatre instead of the big broadway productions) But we had to really take a look at what we were spending in this area if we were going to achieve our ultimate goal of becoming debt free.

That's when I started using our local library to the fullest extent. Nashville has a GREAT library system. The main library is in a huge beautiful building downtown where they offer many programs including live puppet shows that my daughter loves. Then they have many neighborhood libraries thoughout nashville.



Our library system always has the latest books, dvd, cds, etc. You can request and put on hold up to 10 items per card. We have 2, so I usually keep 20 items on request at a time. As soon as items come in and I pick them up, I usually go online and request more. Sometimes, depending upon the popularity of the item, it may take a few weeks to get the item.
Books can be checked out for 3 weeks and DVD/VHS can be checked out for 1 week.

In addition to about 20 books for E, this week we are enjoying the following DVDs






For E

The Backyardigans (2 DVDs)
The Wonderpets
The Swan Princess


For Me and Hubs:

The Tudors - disc 2
Don't Mess with Zohan
The Secret Life of Bees
Fireproof
We also rent music CDs on a regular basis.

I estimate that we've already saved $250 this year by not paying DVD rental fees, or Netflix dues, buying new (or used) books and CDs. It's been a great alternative for entertainment expenses.

Now, if you are a movie buff or music lover who must see the latest movie out or have the latest CD released, this may not be the best plan for you. But, if you don't mind waiting for a while to read the hottest novel out, see a movie or hear the latest CD, this could be a great money saver.