Good point, maybe....

The book was $11 plus shipping. The tools I lust for are much more.
E.g. I still need a bandsaw -- 1.5 HP Delta plus a good fence will
clock in around $1100. That's the sort of thing I never have enough
money for. I've been hoping to find a used one -- it's been two months
now.

Anyway, my logic is that $15 for a book will save numerous trips to
the library since I will consult the book any times over the next
umpteen years. At 32 cents per miile (including wear and tear) a trip
to the library would cost me approximately $1.60. So I'd break even
after ten saved trips. In this case (a reference book), buying could
easily be cheaper than the library...
I do about two finishing jobs a year so I might consult the book twice
ayear. So we're talking five years. Although there maybe other
reasons to go to the library and it'd be unfair to book those trips at
$1.60. Ah heck, having the book is just so much more convenient. Plus,
I'm a book junkie as much as I am a tool junkie. Perhaps that's why I
never have enough money!

So far my buddies on rec.woodowrking have steered me right on both
tools and books and finishes. The only thing rec.woodworking does
poorly at is steering one's politics. However, I see you and I might
admire the same bumper stickers....


(J T) wrote in message ...
Thu, Oct 14, 2004, 12:13pm (EDT-3)
(Never Enough Money) says:
The library is not a good option if you want the book on your nightstand
to peruse at any time for the next, say, 10 years.

For someone who posts as Never Enough Money, you sure aren't
thinking. The library is an EXCELLENT option.

It's one Hell of a lot cheaper to go to the library, read the books
there, then decide which one(s) you want to purchase. There's a good
chance the libray has the ones on your list. And, if they don't, they
can borrow them.

Or, you can just go ahead and buy the books first, and maybe wind up
unhappy with your choice. Up to you.



JOAT
Flush the Johns.
- seen on a bumper sticker