I wanted to address a topic and question I’m often asked about… thrifting books. Whether you’re searching for your next read or styling shelves at home, I’ve definitely got some tips to share when it comes to buying secondhand books! They can really get expensive when buying new, so I like to supplement my new reads, design books, or coffee table books with thrifted ones. It’s an easy, inexpensive way to create a curated collection that fits your aesthetic and preferred subject matter, when it comes to reading material. I will say, filling up a large shelf or expansive built-in takes more books than you might expect. If you’re thrifting solely to style, it may take multiple trips to thrift stores to acquire the amount of books you need. If you have the time, patience, and enjoy a good thrifting trip- then this is an awesome option!
While you’re out vintage and secondhand shopping, you may also be interested in my tips for thrifting good vintage glassware. I’ve also created a list of my tried & true thrifting tips– I hope those five easy ones are helpful. Here’s how to approach thrifting books like a designer… from what to look for to how to style them once you get home.
How to Choose the Right Books
I can almost always find an interesting or unique book at the thrift store. It’s the one section I feel is always a guarantee when secondhand shopping. Before you start browsing, think about your goal… are you collecting for reading, decorating, or both? I usually try to find books that fit both categories.
I know a lot of people turn to thrift stores to buy books solely used for styling. If that’s your goal, be sure to keep project notes with you while thrifting. What color of books are you looking for (warm tones, cool tones, all one color, etc)? What size will best fit your space, built-in, or bookcase? Having these dimensions, color palette, or even book styling inspiration images saved will make the process easier. Here’s what I consider when making my selections:
- Content matters. Choose subjects you actually enjoy: design, architecture, art, or travel always look stylish and engaging.
- Remove the jacket. Sometimes a plain or torn dust jacket hides a stunning linen or embossed cover beneath it.
- Check the condition. Look for clean, sturdy books without moisture damage or musty smells.
- Think color & proportion. Keep your palette in mind and consider where might you style this book. A mix of neutral tones or complementary colors adds balance and interest.
- Mind the price. My thrift stores typically prices books between 50 cents and three dollars-perfect for building a collection affordably.
What to Look For While Thrifting
The most fun thing about thrifting books is discovering unique finds. You never know what you’ll stumble upon: from beautiful typography, pressed florals, or notes left inside by someone else- I enjoy finding these little details that tell the story of the book’s journey. I think that’s part of the charm! Keep an eye out for these while you shop…
- Gold leaf or foil typography
- Linen, fabric, or leather covers
- Embossed text
- Unique or niche subject matter
- Signed copies or first editions
- Oversized coffee table books
Cleaning and Caring for Used Books
I’d say I’m a self proclaimed germaphobe, but buying used books or thrifted decor has never really bothered me. I do take precautions and give everything a good clean before bringing it into our home, but for the most part, I’m not freaked out by that. When it comes to selecting secondhand books, I do try to choose ones that are in good condition, don’t have a funky odor, and have been well taken care of. Here are some cleaning tips if that’s a big concern for you:
- Dust, vacuum, or wipe them off. I like to remove the jackets anyway, so those go straight to the recycling bin. Gently dust the covers and edges with a soft cloth or brush.
- Air them out. I just keep mine in the sun or in our garage for a day or two before hauling them inside to eliminate odors.
- Neutralize smells. If your thrifted books have a funky smell, you can put them in an airtight tote or container with a jar of activated charcoal, baking soda, or talcum powder. I’ve also heard of people resting a book in rice or cat litter to absorb mustiness.
- Freeze it. Place books in a sealed plastic bag and freeze for a week to kill any potential pests.
- Erase marks. A kneaded/gum eraser works wonders for removing smudges or pencil marks.
Styling Thrifted Books in Your Home
Books are one of my favorite styling tools. They bring texture, warmth, and depth to any space. Whether you’re styling a coffee table, a console, or an entire built-in, here’s how to do it thoughtfully:
- Mix orientations. Stack some books horizontally and others vertically to add movement.
- Group by color or tone. Warm hues feel cozy and layered; cool tones feel clean and collected.
- Use books as pedestals. Elevate a vase, candle, or decorative object to create dimension.
- Layer textures. Combine glossy art books with soft linen-bound novels for balance.
- Think in threes. Arrange small clusters of books for a visually pleasing composition.
FAQs
Check local spots that organize by genre or size. Don’t overlook estate sales, library clearances, or flea markets- they’re full of hidden gems. I also like to bring books home when traveling- a souvenir of sorts.
Edit intentionally. Keep each vignette simple. Add decorative pauses like ceramics or framed art. Stick to a color palette or theme, like all neutrals, moody tones, or travel titles. Use repetition and negative space to make your styled shelves feel curated, not cluttered.
Look for first editions, signed copies, or publishers’ marks that indicate rarity. A quick online search of the title and edition number can reveal if you’ve stumbled on a collectible.
If you’re looking for cohesive books for styling and don’t have the time (or desire) to thrift, you can purchase curated book bundles. Books bundles are usually grouped by size, color, subject, etc. Depending on what you’re looking for, that may be an easier option for your book styling project. I found many options on Etsy and even at Pottery Barn (which was a surprise).
Mix old and new! Pair vintage books with sleek accessories, ceramics, or metal accents. The contrast between aged textures and clean lines feels intentional and elevated.
Related Posts
I talk about styling often on the blog. If you’d like to check out some past posts from the archives on that topic (that are more design focused), here are some good posts to reference…
- 10 Easy Fall Styling Ideas Using What You Already Own
- The Best Amazon Vases, Vessels & Pottery for Classic Styling
- The Best Faux Fur Throw Blankets for Styling This Winter
- Ideas for Styling Crystal Table Lamps
- Design Discussion : Shelf Styling with Books
- The Best Fall Branches from Amazon (and How to Style Them)
- 10 Tips for Shelf Styling with Lots of Books
Let me know if you have any other questions about thrifting books. I did a lot of shopping to fill my built-ins. Emmett went to the thrift store with me (to push the cart and help me carry), and he was amazed at my selection process & criteria. Ha! We also found a lot of good books we’re excited to read! He ended up with a bag of his own books, which included one on cabinet making, a finance book, and a fiction book he had been wanting to read for fun.
Thrifting books is such a rewarding mix of design and discovery. So next time you’re at a thrift store, don’t skip the book aisle… it’s full of potential, personality, and maybe even your next favorite read. I hope this post was helpful. Happy thrifting, friends- may your next book find be a beautifully bound treasure that tells its own story.
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