I am curious if there are ways to obtain media/books for low cost or free to develope my further learning of astronomy. I am kinda clueless as where to begin and would love some input.

short story..
I began college some time back and its become obvious to me that I may not be going back any time soon or at all. Needing to pay to live like most just took its toll early on me in life and I wasnt able to complete my studies even with student loans. So here I am, looking to continue my studies on my own in my personal time to expand my mind. I love astronomy and everything about it, its simply amazing how everything works. I am hoping to study enough to be able to test out of some of the preliminary astronomy courses, that way to save time and money, and be able to finish my education before 30 and do something more personally meaningful with my career.

I do not come here as often as Ide like, I have been a member for sometime just haven't posted. Recently some things have shifted and I have a few free extra hours I want to donate to this cause. If someone is willing and wanting to share their knowledge on a more personal teaching basis it would be awesome as well. I understand though I do not want to take up someones time, we all have lives after all.

Thanks ahead for all the replies, and your time most of all.

http://www.educationindex.com/astro/

Awesome index. I definitely bookmarked it and it will come in handy. Right now im looking for definitive college-course study material of some fashion. Like mcgraw-hill books, etc.. something that gives a "somewhat close" perspective and rate of information that taking a normal course would give. The main goal is to pass the final exams after a solid year or more of learning.

That index was filled with alot of links, but it all pertained to hobbyists more in the "know" than I am currently. However no doubt in the future it shall become handy!

Again thanks for your time!!

There are a fair number of science forums about which have astronomy sub-sections where you can ask questions on. The internet is ideal for such an interest.