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Curling up with a good book is the favorite past time of every reader. Sadly, some new hardback bestsellers can cost as high as $35 per book brand new. Purchasing books on sale at bookstore chains, Sam's Club, or Costco might alleviate the punch to your wallet a little. However, purchasing used books online can reduce the cost per book by more than half, if not more.

So what's the deal with online used bookstores? Consider online bookstores much like an auction. Gently used books are offered at low prices by small businesses and independent booksellers. These vendors must follow guidelines established by the book sale site that functions as a moderator between sellers and buyers. The buyer must pay shipping that is not figured into the advertised price of the book. Many vendors use media mail for affordable shipping at flat rates based on item weight. Delivery is typically within 7-10 days.

Buyers searching for limited edition, out of print books, or collectible books have so many more options using online used bookstores. Consumers are no longer limited to local shops or ordering copies from the large bookstores in their areas.

The Ins and Out of Online Used Book Stores

A quick Google of used book stores brings up a large list of sites. As with any online shopping, consumers must be aware that their own research makes the difference in their online shopping experience. Used book sites are no different except that the consumer is buying directly from an individual bookseller. Whatever site you choose, always make sure the shopping site is secure. In addition, some sites offer free or reduced-rate shipping so check their offers closely.

Most online book sale sites have a rating feature in which other customers have reviewed the service of that particular seller. Never purchase used books without reading the seller reviews. If a customer has had a problem, this is the place to find out. Many used book sites also offer full customer comments for sellers. Take advantage of others experiences, both good and bad, and save yourself the aggravation of dealing with an unreliable vendor.

Some sites sort items by book title and then list various used books for sale by price. Many vendors have specific comment fields for each book for sale. Here's where you'll find out the condition of the used book. Is it dog-eared, missing it's book jacket, or coffee-stained? Read this section outlining the general condition of the used book. Other sites list their books by conditions such

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