Frequently Asked Questions

Hey Book Babe,welcome to the brain dump of everything you’ve ever wanted to know about Thrifted Shelf (and probably a few things you didn’t). We’re a small but mighty team running on coffee, candle fumes, and a dangerously tall TBR pile. This FAQ is here to give you the fastest answers — from how to trade in your books to whether we’ll judge your vampire romance phase (spoiler: never). Grab a snack and scroll on, your answers are in here somewhere.
So… what is Thrifted Shelf™ exactly? Like, are you just books, or is there a twist?

We’re your cozy-chaotic corner of the internet where pre-loved books get a second shot at happily ever after. Think used bookstore meets monthly themed candles, merch, and a sprinkle of chaos. If a book club, an indie coffee shop, and your best friend’s living room had a baby — that’s us.
If you're an indie book store, why do you promote things like Amazon & Libro.fm?

We’re not just a regular bookstore — we’re a cool bookstore. Translation: We can’t save the world all at once. New releases and debut authors can be tricky to get in stock, but online marketplaces? They’re everywhere. Sometimes it’s faster for you to grab it there, and when you use our affiliate links, we get a small kickback while you still get your book. You win, we win, the TBR pile wins.
I’ve got a stack of books collecting dust — how do I trade them in with you?

Easy! Fill out our trade-in form, we’ll email you a prepaid shipping label, you send your books, and boom — store credit is headed your way. No awkward in-person handoffs required… unless that’s your jam.
Are you picky about the condition? Because my dog may or may not have “edited” the corners on a few.

We love a well-loved book… within reason. Light wear is fine, but water damage, mold, or missing pages are a no. If your dog’s “edits” are more snack than style, maybe keep that one on your shelf.
How much store credit do I get for trading books in? Is it like a mystery until you see them, or is there a set system?

We give you 50% of what we think we can resell the book for, in store credit. Credit can be used for up to 50% off your next purchase.
I saw something about candles… are they random, or book-themed? (Also, how do I get one?)

Book-themed, babe. Every month is a new vibe — maybe inspired by a character, a series, or an entire fictional world. You can snag them in our store or subscribe so you never miss a drop.
How often do you get new inventory, and how do I get first dibs before everyone else raids it?

New stuff lands almost daily. The VIP way to get first dibs? Join our newsletter. It’s the second-best mail you’ll ever get (first place goes to actual book mail, obviously).
Do you ship everywhere, or am I about to get my hopes crushed because I live far away?

We ship across the U.S. right now. International is on our radar, but until then, maybe find a U.S. friend who owes you a favor.
If the book I want is sold out, can you hunt it down for me or put me on a waitlist?

Absolutely — we’ll go full book-detective for you. Just fill out the request form, and we’ll add you to the list.
What if I get a book and it’s not the vibe — do you do returns or nah?

We don’t offer returns or refunds on products. Books are final sale, and candles are non-returnable — but if a candle arrives damaged, we’ll happily replace it or issue a refund. Not vibing with a book? Our trade-in program is your best friend.
If I trade in my books, will you judge me for my questionable taste in YA vampire romances?

Are you kidding me?! We’ll probably reminisce over our own Twilight era. (Babe, I’m talking photoshopping myself in as Bella. I have proof. Don’t make me use it.) Zero judgment; just bring them in and let someone else live their best sparkly vampire life.
Do you ever sell books with the good kind of notes in the margins? Like, juicy tea from the last owner?

Sometimes — and when we do, we low-key squeal about it. If a book comes with extra personality in the margins, we’ll tell you in the listing.
Can I send you my ex’s books as trade-ins, or is that bad karma for the store?

YES! Babe, send them! Let’s turn their bad vibes into good store credit. It’s called closure.
Do your themed candles change every month, and will I regret not hoarding them?

Yes, and also yes. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. Candle FOMO is real.
Is there a secret club for loyal customers, and if so, does it come with gossip, discounts, or both?

There is — it’s our Facebook group. We spill the tea, drop exclusive deals, and occasionally share unhinged book memes.
What’s the most chaotic book trade-in you’ve ever gotten? (Spill.)

Haha! Yes - my “inheritance” of books from my husband’s grandmother arrived… and mixed into her many religious stacks were tons of Regency romance novels. We even found $300 stuffed between the pages. Turns out grandma liked to feel a bit spicy, if you know what I mean.
If I DM you at 2 a.m. asking for a rec, will you answer or just tell me to go to bed?

Depends. If I’m awake, you’re getting a recommendation. If I’m asleep, you’re getting ghosted until morning. Love you, mean it.

Need More Help?

We’ve got you, babe. If your question didn’t get answered here (or you just want to talk books with a fellow TBR addict), you’ve got options:
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Join the Thrifted Shelf Book Club over on Facebook.

Thrifted Shelf Facebook Group is where the magic happens. Our group is filled with engaged community members who are at the ready to welcome you in and answer any questions.

Here’s why you’ll love it:


✨ A Supportive Community – We’re mostly women who love lifting each other up (and talking all things books).

✨ Honest Reviews & Recommendations – Get real feedback from real readers before your next book haul.

✨ First to Know – Be the first to hear about what’s new at Thrifted Shelf, from fresh arrivals to monthly themed candle drops you’ll obsess over.

✨ Interactive & Fun – From book chats to behind-the-scenes peeks, this is where we hang out and nurture our favorite readers—you.

✨ Friday Night Pizza Parties – It's entirely optional and bring your own pizza (and refreshments) but hey, we have fun.

 Thrifted Shelf Book Club Facebook Group

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