Amidst all the chaotic and ominous news about the US economy, you may have heard that Amazon plans to lay off about 9,000 employees in the coming weeks. It seems that Book Depository, a company acquired by Amazon in 2011, will not survive the mega-company’s downsizing efforts. After almost two decades, Book Depository is closing.
Book Depository is Closing
Book Depository recently announced that it will be shutting its virtual doors on April 26, 2023.
The news of Book Depository closing comes as a blow to book lovers around the world. The online book retailer has been a go-to for high-quality books at insanely affordable prices. People’s reactions to Book Depository closing have varied from sadness to anger.
Although the bookselling landscape will have one less affordable option after Book Depository disappears, there is still hope.
Here are five alternatives to Book Depository where you can find affordable new and used books online.
1. PangoBooks
PangoBooks describes itself as a social marketplace where readers can buy and sell their used books. The platform operates via its app, although a desktop version is available as well.
With PangoBooks, you can find book titles of all kinds, from recently released contemporary titles to vintage sci-fi and fantasy books. You can even find titles for as cheap as $1!
The only downside to PangoBooks is that all titles are used, so they won’t always be in pristine condition.
2. ThriftBooks
ThriftBooks has a motto that is definitely accurate: “Read more. Spend less.” On ThriftBooks, you can find new and used books at reasonably cheap prices.
When shopping on ThriftBooks, you can purchase titles based on their condition, from “New” to “Very Good.” You can also shop for different editions and formats, such as paperback, hardback, and library binding.
Although the platform can sometimes run out of popular titles, it’s still a great marketplace to shop around if you’re not picky about book editions. Plus, it’s kind of fun not knowing which book cover or edition you’re going to get.
3. Mercari
Many people think Mercari is just for clothes, but you can find a ton of books on this platform. Prices and selection vary depending on what you’re looking for, but overall it’s an excellent alternative to Book Depository if you don’t mind used books.
If you’re persistent, you can find some “Like New” books listed on a fairly regular basis.
One downside of Mercari is that you usually have to pay for shipping. However, Mercari sellers are regular people just like you and me, so your cash is going towards an indie seller.
4. Book Outlet
If new books are your thing, try Book Outlet. This Canadian book retailer sells new books that are overstock from publishers. You can find recent releases of all genres for reasonable, discounted prices.
Plus, Book Outlet provides free shipping to the US and Canada on orders over $35. Otherwise, it’s a flat rate of $6.95, which honestly isn’t that bad.
The only downside to Book Outlet is its cheap prices. We’re serious. Try not to spend your entire paycheck on cheap, new books!
5. Better World Books
Better World Books is a socially conscious online book retailer that donates a book for every order it receives. You can buy new and used books for super cheap prices, much like ThriftBooks.
While shopping on Better World Books, you can find different editions of books that range in condition, from library binding to mass-market paperbacks.
The main drawback of Better World Books is that you won’t always be able to find the newest and hottest books on the platform. However, it’s a great place to shop if you’re looking for affordable backlist books.
