Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may contain affiliate links, so if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a commission.
We live in an amazing time where there are more books in existence than any other era in history. According to ISBNdb, there are an estimated 158,464,880 unique books in existence as of 2023 – a truly mind-blowing number.
We also live in a time when buying books has never been easier. You can drive to a bookstore and walk out with a book the same day, order online and have it delivered within 1-2 days, or download a digital book to your device in just a few minutes.
With so many options available, I wanted to create a roundup of all the places you can buy books, whether you prefer shopping online, browsing in-store, or hunting for used books at a discount. If you’ve ever wondered where to buy books online or in-store, this guide breaks down all your best options.
And yes – libraries are incredible and I absolutely encourage supporting your local library. But sometimes you want to own the book for your personal library, skip the commute, or avoid a long wait-list. If you’re in the market to purchase books, here’s a comprehensive guide to where you can find them.
Online Places to Buy Books
Buy New Books Online
Buying books online is convenient, fast and often offers the widest selection.
- Amazon – the OG of online book-buying, with fast shipping and extensive formats (hardcover, paperback, eBook, audiobook)
- Author’s personal website – Many authors sell signed copies or exclusive editions directly from their sites
- BookBub – A must for e-reader users, offering deeply discounted eBooks
- Bookshop – A great Amazon alternative that connects readers with independent bookstores
- Bookstores.com – A trusted online destination for books of every kind
- Scholastic – A robust site for many children’s books, from kindergarten through 12th grade
Buy Used Books Online
If you’re looking to save money, used books are one of the best ways to build your library affordably.
- Abe Books – Search by book condition; shipping varies
- Amazon (used) – Often overlooked, but many sellers offer used books at great prices
- Better World Books – Free shipping on orders over $15; supports literacy initiatives
- Facebook Marketplace – Buy directly from people in your local area
- ThriftBooks – Free shipping on orders over $15 and easy condition filtering
💡 For more tips, check out my full guide on how to buy books cheaply here.
Retail and In-Store Bookstores
- Barnes & Noble – The largest nationwide bookstore chain in the U.S.
- Books-a-Million – Traditional bookstore feel with a strong loyalty program
- Half Price Books – 100+ stores in 19 states with discounted books
- Friends of the Library store – Onsite library bookstore with deeply discounted prices that support your library
- Goodwill – A top spot for thrifted book treasure hunts
- Local independent bookstores – Support small businesses in your community
- Target – Smaller selection, but convenient while shopping; occasionally offers exclusive book bonuses
- Walmart – Widely accessible with affordable prices and popular titles
Book Buying Stats & Trends
I regularly ask book-related questions on my Facebook page, and recently I asked whether people prefer shopping in-store or online for their books. That sparked my curiosity about broader book-buying habits in the U.S.
- Online vs. in-store purchases: 46% online vs. 36% in-store (Source: Yougov.com)
- Total U.S. books sales (2025): 762.4 million books sold (Source: Publisher’s Weekly)
- Average books read per year: 12 books per year (Source: Book Riot)
- Books owned by American: 39% own 11-100 (Source: Rare Book Hub)
- Average price of new book: (Source: eBook Writing Experts)
- Hardcover: $20-35
- Paperback: $10-20
- Mass market: $5-10
- eBooks: 99¢-$15
Final Thoughts
This list isn’t exhaustive, but I hope it introduces you to new places to buy books and reminds you just how many options are available – whether you prefer online bookstores, used book deals or shopping in person.
Where’s your favorite place to buy books—online or in-store? Did I miss one? Let me know in the comments!
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