As a book lover, there’s nothing as exciting as discovering a classic book in your favorite bookstore – whether online or in-store. It gives me an adrenaline rush especially if it’s a book released many years ago and is no longer in print.

These days it’s difficult to find these books unless you’re looking for e-copies. But if you’re old school like me and still live for the thrill of having paperbacks rather than e-books, there are a lot of book websites that curate these rare books at a significantly cheaper price.

That means that if you’re on a budget, there’s still hope you’ll find your favorite novel. Your chances of stumbling upon your favorite classic novel are extremely high.

Some of the best-used book websites include AbeBooks, Biblio, AwesomeBooks, Alibris, and ThriftBooks.

In this article, I have taken my time to review these websites, highlighting their special features and how to navigate them to find your desired book. In the end, you’ll surely find something that suits your taste. So, make sure you read to the end.

Let’s dive right in!

Best Used Book Websites To Explore

1. AbeBooks

This website has been running since 1996 and is well-known for connecting independent sellers with buyers around the world.

It features millions of new, used, and out-of-print books. Whether you’re looking for novels, memoirs, or even cookbooks, you’ll find different titles that suit your interests.

The website is designed such that you can easily locate a used book. You simply need to input the book title or popular keyword associated with it including the author of the work.

Once you click the search button, you’ll see a drop-down of different titles similar to the one you’re looking for.

AbeBooks is particularly known for selling a lot of rare releases and hard-to-find books. There are lots of vintage Penguin paperbacks and vintage fiction from the 1950s and 1960s, so you’re sure to find your favorite book from years back.

The titles are also available in multiple languages and are highly affordable. Surprisingly, many books are under $10. That’s such a sweet deal if you’re on a budget.

In addition to that, AbeBooks is dedicated to ensuring that customers receive quality services. While shopping on the website, you’re guaranteed a secured transaction since there are lots of security policies to safeguard sensitive data like your personal information.

You’ll also notice that the platform is open about the condition of every book – whether good or torn in some parts. This gives you more insights into what you’re buying.

However, in cases where you receive a book that does not match the description provided by the bookseller, you’re entitled to a refund within 30 days. The same applies when the book fails to arrive within the specified timeframe.

This boosts your confidence when shopping on the website. If you don’t know how to navigate the platform and find used books, there’s a guide to help you.

2. SecondSale

From the name, you can already tell that this website sells second-hand titles. There are more than ten million books for you to choose from.

All the books are properly categorized according to their genre. Whether you’re looking for children’s titles, mystery, romance, history, or even cookbooks, there’s enough to go around.

Locating your desired book is as easy as pie. You can use the website’s search function and search by author, title, or with the book’s unique ISBN. If you don’t know which title to go for, there’s a section that highlights popular searches from other users.

Another feature that stands out with SecondSale is that all the used books go through quality inspection by hand to ensure their quality. So, what you see is what you get.

The conditions of the books are laid out for you. They are categorized into new, like new, very good, good, and acceptable.

If you’re based in the United States and place a book order over $10, you’re entitled to free shipping. This makes it more economical to buy books from the platform.

SecondSale’s free 30-day return policy is also an admirable feature. If you’re not satisfied with your order, you can always return it within 30 days at no cost at all.

As much as SecondSale caters to enthusiastic buyers, it also provides an opportunity for people to sell their books and receive instant cash. So, here’s a chance for you to declutter your bookshelf and earn money while at it.

3. ThriftBooks

The website ensures that you read more books at a cheaper price. It features more than 13 million titles, ranging from children’s books to memoirs and timeless literature titles.

One thing that stands out with this website is how the books are all arranged in categories so that you can easily find what you’re looking for. It’s okay if your desired title is not available. Don’t sweat it.

Simply add it to your wish list and you’ll get notified when a copy becomes available. This way, you can easily keep track of the most popular and trending books even if they are difficult to find elsewhere.

ThriftBooks is also considerate enough to offer free shipping on all orders within the United States. It’s generosity doesn’t stop there.

As a loyal customer, there are lots of rewards up for grabs. For each purchase you make on the website, you’re entitled to points.

The points will accumulate until there are enough for you to unlock free books. It’s such a brilliant step to appreciate loyal readers and ensure that they keep coming back for more.

There are also mouth-watering discounts to grab. You can save up to 20% off any book which makes it even more affordable to shop on the platform.

The best part is that there’s a mobile app that makes it convenient for you to find your desired titles. You can browse, purchase, and track your orders on the go.

The apps are available on Google Play Store and Apple Store. Once you create an account, you can sign in on the app with your details.

4. Better World Books

Better World Books is on a strong mission to make the world a better place one book at a time.

It’s quite heartwarming that the website is driven by a social cause such that proceeds from each book sale are dedicated to funding other literary programs like providing books to underserved communities.

This means that every time you buy a book from the platform, you’re not just adding to your collection but also helping someone else learn to read. How cool is that?

Better World Books has millions of titles, so, rest assured that you will never run out of options. Aside from second-hand books, there are also new books for you to explore.

At the top left of the website, you’ll find a drop-down with the book categories including trending titles, adaptations, banned books, and textbooks. The titles are further arranged in different genres for easy access when needed.

One feature that stands out with Better World Books is the “Bargain Bin” feature. If you’re buying in bulk, you can get a good bargain. For example, if you buy more than 10 used books, you’ll get a 30% discount.

I noticed that these discounts are automatically applied to the shopping cart when you add all the titles you want to buy. You’ll see the “Bargain Bin” tag displayed in the cart. However, bear in mind that this feature only applies to used books in the Bargain Bin category.

Additionally, if you’re buying school textbooks, you’ll get up to a 90% discount. This goes a long way to reinstate the platform’s mission to make the world a better place.

Another interesting feature is that you won’t incur shipping fees if your orders are above $15. It also doesn’t matter where you are, you can still get your hands on your favorite reads.

5. Alibris

Alibris is another website to uncover classic literature books that are out of print. There are more than 200 million books from different authors across the world and the best part is that you’re not breaking the bank for this.

The titles are super affordable, so you’re sure to find an option that suits your budget. I also noticed that the website has an intuitive interface, making it easy for you to find your desired book.

There is an advanced search option that allows you to search titles based on their title, author, or ISBN. You can also filter your search based on the book’s condition, seller rating, and even the shipping procedure. Some titles are eligible for free shipping, while others attract a small fee.

However, the website goes the extra mile to take guesswork out of shipping costs. This means that you will pay the same flat shipping rate per item, whether it’s a heavy textbook or a lightweight paperback, and it doesn’t matter where you’re based.

Also, if you’re ordering multiple items, you’ll automatically receive shipping discounts. This works better if the orders are from the same seller.

To get started with placing your orders, you need to sign up first with your email and password. Since the platform uses SSL technology to strengthen its security system, your personal information including your payment details is safe and secure.

Overall, Alibris has something for everyone, whether you’re a casual reader or a passionate collector.

6. Biblio

If you’re desirous of uncommonly good books, then this is the best website for you. What makes it stand out the most is that the titles are from professional antiquarian booksellers.

You can argue that the platform is one of the biggest used-book online stores. There are more than 100 million books to show for this.

This website is best suited for book collectors. Whether you’re looking for historical fiction or religious titles, they are all there for you at affordable prices.

Even if you can’t find the book you’re looking for, keep checking back. The website constantly updates the book catalog every single day, so you’re sure to find the book you’re yearning for in no time.

Thankfully, Biblio’s website is designed for easy use. You can always search for titles by title, author, or ISBN. Alternatively, you can filter your search results to find exactly what you’re looking for.

There’s also a section on the website that highlights favorite titles curated by Biblio editors. You can always explore that if you’re unsure which book to go for.

7. AwesomeBooks

The name alone already suggests that the platform houses a diverse collection of new and used books. There are more than seven million books to explore.

All of them are categorized under fiction and non-fiction titles. There’s also a section for bestselling books and children’s books.

The best part is that the books are budget-friendly, so you’re not breaking the bank to purchase one. Also, rest assured that you’ll be getting quality books.

There are dedicated specialists who carefully inspect and grade the condition of each book. They also go the extra mile to provide accurate information about the state of these titles, so what you see is what you get.

Another interesting fact to note about AwesomeBooks is that it provides free worldwide delivery. It doesn’t matter where you are in the world, your order will be delivered to your doorstep free of charge.

In addition to that, the platform runs a fascinating campaign known as the “Buy One Give One Campaign,” where people are rewarded with books whenever customers make a single purchase.

It’s such a brilliant way to promote literacy, especially amongst the underrepresented folks.

8. BookScouter

If you’re a college student looking for a cheaper alternative to purchasing the required textbooks for school, this website is for you. BookScouter is primarily known for selling second-hand textbooks.

To reinstate their dedication to helping students, the platform offers up to 70% off all textbooks. This means that you can get the books you need for school without spending too much.

The platform also goes further to support students with a scholarship of up to $500 given out each quarter. The winning students can use this to purchase their textbooks for the semester.

You can also get other titles on the website including fiction and biographies.

There are more than 25 booksellers at your service and all you need to do is search for the book you want by ISBN, title, or author. After searching, you can compare the prices and see feedback from other buyers.

This helps you to ensure that you’re getting the best deal. Finally, the mobile app is available for download for free. You can either get it from the Google Play Store or Apple Store.

Once you have this app, you can quickly scan barcodes of books to compare prices, view vendor ratings, and check buyback prices while on the go.

9. World of Books

World of Books is another website known for offering books at affordable prices. The good thing is that as much as the books are cheap, you’re not compromising on quality.

Interestingly, the website contains millions of books that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you’re into crime fiction, classic literature, or modern bestsellers, you’ll definitely find something that will fascinate you.

The website has a simple interface that allows you to quickly find what you’re looking for. You only need to type in your desired title and hit the search button.

Aside from this feature, the books are properly categorized. This makes it easier to browse through and pick your favorite book.

In addition to that, this platform is popular for selling the best second-hand children’s books. So you’re not only getting something for yourself but your little one as well.

Conclusion

As you have seen, there are lots of websites for used books. One thing I admire about these websites is that they all contribute to creating an eco-friendly environment. Rather than discard these old books, they help find homes for them.

Out of all the platforms reviewed above, my best pick is Biblio. I love the website because it contains uncommonly good books and titles you wouldn’t find elsewhere.

Biblio also updates its catalog daily, so it’s easy to find what you’re looking for. Even if it’s not available at that time, you can always check back later.

But don’t stay limited to my choice. Feel free to explore other websites and see which one works for you.

Tom Clayton

Tom loves to write on technology, e-commerce & internet marketing.
Tom has been a full-time internet marketer for two decades now, earning millions of dollars while living life on his own terms. Along the way, he’s also coached thousands of other people to success.