Read all about it -- for less!
By Laura Shanahan • Bankrate.com

Whether you peruse periodicals for pleasure, work or both -- there's no doubt about it: Curling up with your favorite reads is one of life's great joys. But you needn't pony up a fortune for your fair share of print.

Sure, you could -- and should -- make use of all the free resources at your local library; read online versions of periodicals whenever possible and practical; swap mags with your neighbors; and paw through the piles at your doctors' offices.

Still, there's nothing like your very own hot-off-the-press, delivered-fresh-to-your-door magazines and newspapers. Think the cost of subscriptions is carved in stone? Think again.

Here's your subscription to savings:

1. Bide your time.
2. Don't chalk up a big jump in renewal rates to "inflation."
3. It's all academic.
4. Cast a Worldwide Net.
5. Cast a wider Net.
6. Go straight to the source.
7. Go to the bag-a-bargain site eBay.
8. 50 and fabulous?
9. Do good for yourself by doing good for others.
10. Be wary of strangers with subscriptions.
11. Be equally cautious with phone salespersons.
12. Go for the gold.

1. Bide your time.
Ever notice that subscription rates tend to decrease as the flurry of renewal notices gets more "urgent"? Periodicals generally send out notices well in advance of subscription expiration dates, so you can dally a bit and see what better offers come your way without worrying about any lapses in delivery.

2. Don't chalk up a big jump in renewal rates to "inflation."
There may well be a better price available, if you only ask. Indeed, that is exactly what you say to the subscription department: "Is this your best price?" You may want to buttress your reason for asking by pointing out that the increase is large and/or you are a longtime subscriber -- but you may be amazed at how often it is a case of ask and ye shall receive.

3. It's all academic.
If you are a student or a teacher, say it loud and proud. Some periodicals have special rates for those on either side of the school desk. Other journals may discount to those in health-care or other service fields. Ask about professional subscription rates.

4. Cast a Worldwide Net.
Rather than calling up individual publications asking for special or professional rates, go on a "fishing expedition" at Web sites specifically set up for the purpose of offering info about a wide array of periodicals that do just that. Such a site is especially useful if you're not set on just one publication, but are open to receiving -- or simply learning about -- a cross-section.

Whether you're a chemist or a call-center worker, TradePub.com may well have a magazine with your name on it, figuratively and then literally -- free to professionals who qualify. (There's a simple online application form.) Got questions? The "Privacy Policy," "FAQ," and "About TradePub.com" pages clearly spell out the deal.

The name freebizmag.com says it all, and this site also clearly addresses any questions or concerns you may have. You simply fill in some blanks to determine your qualification -- including your job function and industry -- and once you're in, you will not only receive the mag(s) you choose, you'll even be informed of new titles that may be of interest.