Used Books

We are NOT currently accepting used books. This page will be updated if that changes in the future.

We buy a limited selection of used books for store credit.

Our used book program is intentionally curated and focused on:

  • Recent releases (primarily 2023 and newer)
  • Literary classics
  • High-demand contemporary fiction and non-fiction
  • Beautiful editions in excellent condition

Because of our limited space, we are highly selective about what we accept.

We will accept one bag or box at a time to review and make an offer of store credit to you. Store credit can be used on anything in the store. If you'd prefer to donate your store credit, please let us know! We have many deserving schools and community groups in the area. Any titles you drop off to us that we cannot add to our used book collection will be donated unless you indicate you would like them returned to you.

Used book trades take at least 5-10 business days to process, longer during busy seasons - we do not evaluate used books on the spot. We are also not appraising vintage, rare, or collectible books.

Before You Bring Books In

We currently only consider books that are:

  • Published in 2023 or later
  • In excellent, like-new condition
  • Clean, odour-free, and gently handled
  • Free from highlighting, writing, stains, water damage, cracked spines, or excessive wear

We are especially interested in:

  • Literary fiction
  • Popular contemporary fiction
  • BookTok/book club favourites
  • Literary non-fiction
  • Modern classics and collectible classics
  • Canadian authors

We Do Not Accept

  • Most books published before 2023 (unless considered a literary classic or still very popular)
  • Damaged or heavily worn books
  • Former library copies/school editions
  • Mass market paperbacks
  • Textbooks
  • Encyclopedias
  • Magazines
  • Reader’s Digest editions
  • Outdated reference materials
  • Large unsorted donations

How It Works

  1. Bring your books to the shop during buying hours.
  2. Staff will review them later. We do not assess books on the spot.
  3. If accepted, you’ll receive a store credit offer by text or email.
  4. Unaccepted books must be picked up within 5 days.

Please note: Bringing books in does not guarantee acceptance, and we may decline books based on condition, inventory needs, or current demand.

Store Credit Pricing Guide

Our offers are based on:

  • Current retail value
  • Demand and sell-through potential
  • Condition
  • Existing inventory
  • Edition and format

Acceptance and pricing are at staff discretion.

Typical store credit ranges:

Recent hardcover (2023+): 15-25% of current retail price
Recent trade paperback: 15-30% of current retail price
Literary classics: Varies by edition and condition

Email us at books@commonplaceingersoll.ca if you have any questions!