Reading with focus as well as browsing are both important for researchers. In order to have high quality access to these sources of information, I would start with having a subscription to your local library before anything else.
Public libraries are the most democratic places ever; you have access in them no matter your race, religion, ethnicity, gender or income. They are a wonderful place to have some quiet place where you can work on your ideas.
By being subscribed to your local public library, you could also have access to scientific papers databases, media information as CDs, DVDs, pictures, an Internet connection and knowledgeable librarians. Apart from libraries, you could have access to the Internet through hot wifi spots – there are maps with them for any town.
Once you are subscribed to your local public library, browse it to get familiar with the resources it has. If they are not enough, check the conditions of interlibrary loans.
There are also libraries that allow access to their digital collection without being a resident in their district. You can enroll there by sending a requirement with a cheque by post and you will receive your library card by mail also.
Another solution would be to try swapping websites, especially if you already have a collection of media that you do not need anymore. There are general swapping sites as well as sites specialized on exchanging books, music, games and so on.
Do not forget about the Internet, but check the sources of your information. For more focused results, use specialized search engines, databases and encyclopedias.
Also check digital libraries on the Internet.
Check focused patent websites if your area of research involves physical applications. Check clinical trials websites if your area of research involves medical research.
Browsing is very important for inspiration – I would start with main scientific magazines, blogs, Wikipedia, Scholarpedia, forums and sometimes even chat rooms.
When reading papers, my eBook reader has replaced my need of a printer. My smartphone has also enabled me access to free educational applications.
Knowing several foreign languages will allow you to do a more extensive literature review, so do not discount their importance.
Until now I have insisted on secondary sources of research like books, but do not discount the value of primary research; whenever possible, try observing the phenomena yourself; try building devices in order to observe what you need; try traveling to submerge yourself into a new culture.