Barnes & Noble's Premium Membership is the best $40 I spend every year

I'm a bit of a nervous traveler, which is why I invest in things like credit cards and airline statuses that can make flying more comfortable through seat upgrades and lounge access. Reading, however, is one of my most valuable investments, both as my go-to distraction in the air and as my favorite way to spend downtime once I land. That is where the Barnes & Noble Premium Membership comes in.As someone who buys a lot of books throughout the year for both herself and for everyone around her for nearly every occasion, from birthdays to holidays, this is a membership that easily pays for itself.How the Barnes & Noble Premium Membership actually worksAtlantide Phototravel/GETTYFor $39.99 a year, the Barnes & Noble Premium Membership is one of the most straightforward value propositions I've found in retail loyalty. There's one tier, one annual fee and plenty of benefits that stack up as high as my bookshelf.Highlights of the Barnes & Noble Premium membership include:10% off almost everything in B&N stores and online (including ebooks and audiobooks)Automatic Stamp Rewards enrollment earns 1 stamp per $10 spent; 10 stamps = $5 rewardFree standard shipping on orders ...