Shopping for the holidays can be difficult, especially for college students on a tight budget. Here are some ideas that are inexpensive or unique:

Used Clothing, CDs and Books

Resale stores offer many inexpensive items for holiday shoppers.

Buffalo Exchange, located at 2001 E. Speedway Blvd., sells "current style and funky vintage clothing," said Leslie LeCroy assistant manager. "Everything we take is usually in really good condition."

They also have purses, shoes, new and used sterling silver, and vintage jewelry, she said.

Bookman's Used Books, Music and Magazines, located at 1930 E. Grant Rd. and 3733 W. Ina Rd., also sells books on tapes, comic books, computer software, sheet music and cassette tapes, said Jonas Johnson, floor supervisor. Books are generally half the cost of the original copy and compact discs are usually 2/3 of the new cost. There is a rare book room with collectable and first editions copies, he said.

PDQ Records and Tapes, located at 2342 N. Dodge Blvd., has more than 50,000 compact discs, 75 percent of which are used, said manager Duane Gibson. PDQ has ñone of the widest varieties of types of music youÍll find anywhereî he said, selling cassettes, records, 8-tracks and videos.

Service Gifts

Students can give their time for the holidays by issuing promissory notes for things like baby-sitting, tutoring or housecleaning. Another idea is reserving time for a loved one with a psychic or masseuse.

Food and Beverage gifts

For students who are from out of town, wines from Arizona wineries can be a unique gift. Beers from around the world can be a gift for someone whom the gift-giver will see for years to come „ each year give that person a six-pack from a different state. Candy, cookies or brownies in a decorated container are inexpensive gift ideas. For the Christmas dieter sugar or fat-free cookies are a thoughtful gift.

Garage Sales

Check out ads in the newspaper for televisions, furniture, bicycles, and pets.

Gift Certificates

Gift certificates can be purchased from fast food restaurants, department stores or long-distance companies.

Rocks and Ropes, a rock climbing gym located at 330 S. Toole Ave., sells gift certificates for any amount and can be used toward any program that the gym offers, said Chad McWhinnie. Student memberships are $30 a month and $155 for six months. For $10 newcomers can learn basic safety procedures needed to climb.

Make Your Own

Creative gift givers can make cards, clothing or jewelry.

Piney Hollow, located at 427 N. 4th Ave. has a broad selection of beads, wire necklaces, charms, rings, ethnic and Native American jewelry, said owner Mike Haggerty. People can make earrings that range from one to five dollars, depending on the beads, he said. Employees are available to provide assistance, Haggerty said.