I always go to the library first for all of my books. It is a nice walk away from the sewing and then I can often find them on CD . I walk home pop in the CD and return to quilting with a book to keep me company.
I also hesitate to purchase books because of the cost but I have a son that works at Barnes and Noble. He will get me books once a year when the employee discount is available. My list grows for 12 months and then watch out! That is how I got all of the Elm Creek Books and several of the Elm Creek quilt pattern books. Lucky me!