I think we’ve all been there—wanting to pick up something new, whether it’s coding, cooking, gardening, or photography—but realizing that classes or premium subscriptions can add up fast. Books, though? Books are the secret weapon. They’re affordable, they’re accessible, and if you know where to look, you can get them for free or nearly free.

First off, let’s start with the classics. I know that word can scare people off—“classics” sounds like dusty old tomes you’d see in a library basement—but I’m talking about books that have stood the test of time because they’re packed with valuable information. Take How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie, for example. It’s been around forever, but if you’re looking to improve communication skills or get better at networking, this book is pure gold. And here’s the thing: you don’t need to buy the latest edition. The principles are timeless, so grab a used copy for a few bucks or check it out at your library.

Speaking of libraries, they are the go-to for learning on a budget. Most libraries these days have digital platforms like Libby or OverDrive where you can borrow ebooks and audiobooks for free. If your library doesn’t have a book you’re looking for, ask them to request it—they can usually make it happen. And don’t forget interlibrary loans, which are like this magical system where libraries share their collections. It’s honestly underrated.

Okay, let’s move on to skill-specific recommendations. If you’re learning something creative, like drawing or painting, I’d recommend checking out Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain by Betty Edwards. This book is phenomenal for beginners, and it’s been a gateway for so many people who think they’re “not artistic.” Again, you can find it used or at the library.

For cooking, Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat by Samin Nosrat is a must. It’s not just a recipe book—it teaches you the why behind good cooking. And even if you’re on a tight budget for ingredients, the principles in this book will level up your cooking game. You’ll start to notice that even simple, affordable meals can taste amazing with just a few tweaks.

Now, let’s talk tech. If you’re diving into coding, Automate the Boring Stuff with Python by Al Sweigart is a fantastic starting point. Not only is it affordable, but the author also offers parts of it for free online. It’s practical, approachable, and gets you working on real-world projects right away. And if you’re into that, look up books in the “For Dummies” series—yeah, they might not have the flashiest branding, but they’re super clear and straightforward.

For personal finance, The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins is a game-changer. It’s written in plain, conversational language and is packed with advice that anyone can follow. Whether you’re trying to save for retirement or just get a better handle on your money, this book is worth every penny. And hey, libraries usually have it too, so you might not even need to spend the penny.

Now, I know not everyone has access to a well-stocked library, or maybe you’re in a rural area where that’s not an option. In that case, let’s talk free resources. Project Gutenberg is fantastic for older, public-domain books. And while these might not help you with super modern skills like learning Python, it’s a treasure trove for subjects like writing, philosophy, and even business.

Another trick I’ve used is searching for books at thrift stores or garage sales. You’d be surprised what gems you can find for a dollar or two. A friend of mine scored a pristine copy of The Lean Startup by Eric Ries for a quarter. A quarter!

And let’s not overlook online communities. Sites like Reddit or Goodreads often have book swap groups or lists of free resources. Some authors even give away their work to build an audience, so keep an eye out for those opportunities.

Finally, here’s a quick mindset tip: Don’t feel like you need the perfect book. Sometimes we get caught up in finding the one that will teach us everything, but honestly, any book that moves the needle is a good book. Read it, take what you can from it, and move on to the next one. It’s about progress, not perfection.