There are a ton of books in my local library. So why, instead of borrowing, do we buy books? By waiting just a little while, we can read that best-seller from our favorite author. Our first tipster has a great way to stay current - and save money, too.

Keep bestseller lists. I keep the best-seller lists from the New York Times book section. Keeping those old lists makes it much easier to find best-selling books at the library, as the demand has waned from when these books were newly released.

- Beverly, California

Ask for gift card balance. I work at Bed Bath & Beyond. When a gift card is used, the balance left on the card is printed on the receipt. I suppose other retailers do the same with their cards, but if not, just ask the cashier for the balance. Then keep track of it in your wallet.

- Vicki, Michigan

Add mayo to the lice. In my area, head lice are a real problem. There is one home treatment that seems to work. Starting at the top of your child's head, lift a small section of hair and apply regular mayonnaise onto the scalp. Continue until the entire head is covered with mayonnaise. Then, wrap cotton from a roll or gauze around the hairline and top with a shower cap. Leave on overnight. The next morning, have your child stand in the shower and rinse the hair with warm water. Follow with dishwashing detergent (this helps to get the oils out of the hair), and then finish with your regular shampoo and conditioner.

One treatment

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should do it. But if not, just repeat. This home treatment has no harsh chemicals, and the hair gets a nice shine from the eggs in the mayonnaise. This is cheaper than the chemical treatments, and it's nontoxic, too.

- Cindy, email

D.I.Y. condensed soup mix. I make my own condensed soup mix and use it in soups and casseroles instead of using canned from the store. Combine: 2 cups instant nonfat dry milk crystals, 3/4 cup cornstarch, 1/4 cup instant chicken bouillon granules, 2 tablespoons dried onion flakes, 1/2teaspoon crushed dried basil, 1/2teaspoon crushed dried thyme (optional) and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Store in an airtight container. To substitute for one can of any condensed soup, mix 1/3 cup dry mix and 1-1/4 cups water in saucepan. Cook and stir until thickened. Add one tablespoon butter, if desired.

- Carol, email

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