I went to the WW center that's near my work ( not just a meeting place, and actual center) and I purchased, for 19.95, the food companion, dine out guide, journal, binder, and points slider. If you are somewhat familiar with the program, it's enough to start the program. Don't pay 40-45.00 bucks for this on ebay if you live near a center.
I just walked in and purchased it and I am not a member. You can't get weekly materials, but you can also get bars, cook books, etc....
I am doing it on my own, I am a grad student and full time mom and can't afford the meetings at this point , so it's this or nothing. I did the online version last year and lost 20 lbs, and am ready to lose 20 more.
If all you want are some of the materials, check out the centers first before you hit ebay and save yourself a couple bucks!

I'm thinking about visiting one of the local WW near me as well.
I'm curious to see what they have for sale. I know that I want to get a WW cookbook...so it's good that you said they have that in there.

---so, the prices are pretty good?
(I'm Online Program)

Thank you for the shopping tip~

Great Advice:
I feel sad for those that are not near meetings or cannot afford the long - term commitment. Let's face it .... it's awfully sad to pay for those weeks with no loss.

You could even say you attend another location or you are visiting from outta state - they don't care. The magazines are good I like reading the sucess stories. It tends to motivate me. THey have a weekly menu in each magazine and recipes.

I'm doing WW with a friend from work & we are helping each other. The support is great at 3fatchicks too.

FYI in Arizona unless you have a valid W/W they will not sell to you (however, most of us who go will help you out by purchasing it for you) but if you are an online member bring your 'payment' info and stuff and they should let you buy.

Not all centers will sell to you. You have to show your membership at mine to buy anything.

Mabie other states are different, but when I worked there we sold anything because we made commission on it. People also come from other locations or states & we'd sell them anything. Especially the smaller meeting in churches & community centers - they will care even less about if you are a member or not - especially if you have cash in your hand & the line is long.

There are also WW cookbooks at the bookstore. I like the WW recipes and so does everyone else.

Keep Counting!