About Our Books
At first glance, our prices might make you do a double take. We get it. When you see brand new books at 50% or more off list price online... it's fair to have questions. Let's break it down.
Are These Used Books?
We get this a lot. When prices look this good, it's natural to wonder if the books are used. Plot twist: they're not. Every book we sell is brand new and unread. We're not a used books marketplace.
Are These Used Books?
We get this a lot. When prices look this good, it's natural to wonder if the books are used. Plot twist: they're not. Every book we sell is brand new and unread. We're not a used books marketplace.
Why Is Book Outlet So Cheap?
Publishers print thousands of copies of each title for bookstores everywhere. After the initial demand is met, extra copies are often returned by retailers in bulk. Rather than letting those books sit unsold, publishers mark them with a small dot or line on the edge of the pages to indicate their remainder status, then sell that excess inventory to bargain book distributors at a reduced cost. We purchase these books and pass the savings on to you. Think of it as giving great books a second chance to land on the right shelf. If you've been wondering where to buy cheap books that are still brand new, hi! You found us.
What is a Remainder Mark?
Publishers mark excess inventory with a small dot or dash, typically on the bottom edge of the book. This is called a remainder mark, and it indicates the book can now be sold for a fraction of its original price. You might spot it as: ⢠A small black dot ⢠A small red dot ⢠A thin line ⢠An artistic squiggle This is the birthmark of a bargain book. The moment it gets that mark; it begins its second life at a much lower price.
Publishers mark excess inventory with a small dot or dash, typically on the bottom edge of the book. This is called a remainder mark, and it indicates the book can now be sold for a fraction of its original price. You might spot it as: ⢠A small black dot ⢠A small red dot ⢠A thin line ⢠An artistic squiggle This is the birthmark of a bargain book. The moment it gets that mark; it begins its second life at a much lower price.
How Do You Source Your Books?
We sell two types of brand-new books, and each takes a different path getting to our website.
Bargain Books
We work directly with major publishing houses and more than 1,000 publishing imprints across 39 categories. Our inventory includes publisher overstock and, in some cases, unsold retailer returns from bookstores. These books may include a remainder mark on the bottom edge. While some copies of the same title may have a remainder mark (most do!), others donât. We're not able to guarantee if your copy will include one or not.
Fresh Off the Press
These titles are newly printed and take a direct sourcing path from publisher to us. They've got that extra polished shelf appeal and are guaranteed to be free of remainder marks.
We carry collections from publishers like Paper Mill Press and North Parade Books in this category.
Will My Book Have Minor Cosmetic Imperfections?
Most bargain books arrive in excellent condition but, minor cosmetic imperfections can occasionally happen. We do our best to mitigate this, however, you might see: ⢠A lightly bent corner ⢠A small dent along the edge ⢠Light scuffing on the cover ⢠Minor dust jacket wear ⢠In rare cases, small tears to a page edge, cover, or spine
Most bargain books arrive in excellent condition but, minor cosmetic imperfections can occasionally happen. We do our best to mitigate this, however, you might see: ⢠A lightly bent corner ⢠A small dent along the edge ⢠Light scuffing on the cover ⢠Minor dust jacket wear ⢠In rare cases, small tears to a page edge, cover, or spine
Any minor cosmetic wear does not affect readability or the structural integrity of the book. If your book arrives with damage beyond cosmetic wear, our Customer Service team is here to help.
How Often Does Book Outlet Restock?
New titles arrive daily. Our inventory is sourced in limited quantities, which means our selection is always evolving. Popular books, including bestselling authors and trending #BookTok picks, can sell out quickly. Once a book is gone, we can't guarantee we'll get it back in stock. So, if you see a title you want on your bookshelf, we recommend adding to cart. Pronto.
If youâre looking for a title thatâs currently out of stock, add it to your Wishlist to be notified when itâs available again. Go to your Wishlist, click the â+â button, search for the title, and tap the heart icon to add it. Be sure to opt in to wishlist notifications under your Account Settings.
So, Why Book Outlet?
Easy: More books, less bucks. Book Outlet sells brand new books at 50% or more off the list price, so you can read more and spend less. Now the only question is, how strong is your shelf control? đ
For more details on condition, returns, or shipping, check out our FAQs.