If you go to the next local book sale, likely you can find a set of encyclopedia that can be had for free.
http://www.booksalefinder.com/
I did get a set of “World Book” for free. I asked a clerk at a local Salvation Army type store how much they were and he said I could just have them.
World Book is really a pretty good encyclopedia.
I have a Nephew who is a Jag Colonel and possibly the smartest person I have ever known. He told me he plans on getting a set of used Britannica before long as he also likes the book format.
You are my new BFF.