When the daily grind gets too difficult, one of the most calming things you can do is escape to somewhere quiet and immerse yourself in a good book. Fortunately, Orlando is home to several delightful used bookstores where you can find pre-loved books at affordable prices. Here are 6 places to buy used books in Orlando.
1. BrightLight Books
BrightLight Books is the go-to spot for buying used books in Orlando. Located in Fern Park, this family-owned gem has been around since 1995. They offer a wide range of genres for books, along with used music, movies, games, and puzzles.
The store has a massive but well-organized inventory. It’s the kind of place you can spend hours browsing, and you’re bound to find something you like here. If you’d rather shop from the comfort of your couch, you can browse their selection on their website.
However, it’s worth making the trip in person. The store sells $1 books and discount DVDs out front, and you never know what you’ll find out there.
BrightLight Books also accepts gently used books and other items in exchange for store credit or cash. They offer 40% of the item’s selling price in store credit, or half of that amount if you’d rather have cash. So, if you’re looking to declutter your bookshelf, this could be the spot for you.
Address: 161 State Road 436, Fern Park, FL 32730
2. Joybird Books
Update: Joybird Books is closed as of October 27, 2024.
Joybird Books might be the cutest place to buy used books in Orlando. This colorful little shop has been serving Audubon Park for the past few years and offers a neatly curated collection of used books. They also sell cute local gifts, such as bookmarks and stickers.
But Joybird Books is more than just a bookstore. They’ve got a working typewriter for you to use, a piano to play, and even free art supplies if you’re feeling creative. There’s also an adorable children’s area. The shop regularly hosts community events, so keep an eye on their calendar to see what’s coming up.
Joybird Books accepts trade-ins of up to 10–15 items in exchange for store credit. They offer 10% of the selling price for store credit for adult paperbacks and hardcovers. Visit the store’s website for more details on their donation/trade-in policy.
Address: 3018 Corrine Drive, Orlando, FL 32803
3. Best Used Books
Best Used Books might win the award for most used books in Orlando. As soon as you walk in, you’re surrounded by shelves filled with books and stacks of books on the floor. If you’re a bookworm looking for a literary deep dive, this is the place to go.
But you can find much more at Best Used Books, including comics, toys, movies, music, games, and puzzles. And fans of vintage tech will be pleased to discover that they have a whole bookcase dedicated to VHS tapes.
If you have items to trade in, Best Used Books will give you store credit equal to 50% of the selling price. You can use this credit to get up to 50% off your next purchase, and any leftover credit will be saved for a year. Check out their website for more details on their credit policy.
Address: 880 S. Highway 17-92, Longwood, FL 32750
4. Walls of Books
Walls of Books is a family-run bookstore in Oviedo that sells new and used books. Operated by two Air Force veterans, the shop has been serving the community since 2019.
You can find books from a broad variety of genres at Walls of Books. They have a wide selection of children’s books and Christian literature. On my visit, I was surprised by how many books they had on Florida history.
The store buys used books in exchange for store credit. According to their website, all books purchased at Walls of Books can be returned for 50% of the price as a store credit, as long as the store’s price sticker is still on the back of the book when you return it.
Walls of Books is in the same shopping center as a Kelly’s Ice Cream, so you can treat yourself to a scoop while you read your new purchases.
Address: 119 N. Central Avenue, Suite 1001, Oviedo, FL 32765
5. Maya Books & Music
Maya Books & Music is the kind of place you picture when you think of a used bookstore. The smell of used books greets you the moment you walk into this cozy shop in historic downtown Sanford. With its warm décor and a peaceful ambiance, Maya Books & Music has a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for browsing.
Upstairs, you’ll find a loft where they sell CDs and vinyl. The space may be small, but it’s packed with a variety of music.
You can trade in used items in for store credit. And if you happen to visit Maya Books & Music on a Saturday morning, be sure to check out the nearby farmers market for some local goods.
Address: 201 E. 1st Street, Sanford, FL 32771
6. Your local library
If you’re looking for used books in Orlando, head to your local public library. Several libraries in the area operate used bookstores:
- New Leaf Bookstore at the Winter Park Library (1052 W. Morse Boulevard, Winter Park, FL 32789) – This bookstore also has an eBay page for rare and antique books.
- Friends of the Library Bookstore at the Orlando Public Library (101 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL 32801)
- Friends of the Maitland Public Library (501 S. Maitland Avenue, Maitland, FL 32751)
- Friends of the Seminole County Library Bookstore at the Jean Rhein Central Branch (215 N. Oxford Road, Casselberry, FL 32707)
These bookstores take donations, so if you’re interested in dropping off some items, check their websites or call the library for donation criteria.
Conclusion: 6 Charming Places to Buy Used Books in Orlando
Orlando’s used bookstores may be on the smaller side, but they’re filled with an eclectic collection of books to explore. They’re the perfect place to spend a rainy afternoon and find your next read.
As a bonus, supporting these stores helps support local businesses and libraries. It’s a win all around!