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Finding used books to sell online is not always easy, but there are many places to “bookscout” out there. In order to find books to sell, you have to get out and look for them. Most people who are already selling used books know of all of these, but here are some of the most popular sources for finding used books to sell online.

Thrift Stores-

Thrift stores can be a great place to find books to sell online, especially for the hobby or part-time bookseller.Store that have a good turnover can be great, while stores that do not get fresh inventory on a regular basis can be a time-waster. You can occasionally find good books at these stores as well, so don’t give up on them altogether, but visit the stores with a regular turnover more frequently. For locations of thrift stores near you, check out TheThriftShopper.com

Garage Sales-

Garage sales can be a good source for used books, but they can be hit-or-miss. Although you can always find a diamond in the rough, learn to “read between the lines” when perusing the listings in the paper. Ads for sales with baby items, such as toys or clothes, often may not have very good books. Ads that describe “nice” contents, such as nice furniture, antiques, etc., may have nice books also even if they are not listed. Look at the neighborhood as well, people who live in upper class or wealthy neighborhoods with lots disposable income may have the nicest books, although there are always exceptions to the rule.

Estate Sales-

Estate sales can be a source of good books as well, but a little interpretation may be necessary here as well. These days, a sale listed as an estate sale may not be much more than a regular garage sale. Look for signs of nice things, antiques, etc in the listing as well as the neighborhood as well.

Friends of Library (FOL) Sales/Book Fairs-

FOL sales or fairs can be a great source, with many sales having thousands of books available. There will likely be stiff competition as well, as all of the other booksellers and dealers will be there as well, usually early. Get there as early as possible to find the best books before they get picked through. Check out Book Sale Finder to find upcoming library sales in your area.

Auctions-

If there are auctions in your area, they will likely have books from time to time. Make a few visits to find out how frequently books are included in their offerings.

Craigslist-

-Depending on where you live, craigslist can be a great or not so hot source for finding books. Much of this can depend on how many listings there are and how frequently they are added. In larger cities,obviously, there will be a lot more listings of books you can peruse.

Online-

Yes, you can buy books from one venue online and sell on another. There are many people who do this quite regularly and make decent money doing it. For example, buying a book on Ebay and selling it on Amazon.