I came here on a Fire Sale Monday after lunch. Right away, someone at the counter greeted me and told me about the slashed prices. Similarly, when I went to checkout one hour later, I was quickly and warmly attended to. You read that right. One! Hour! There were a lot of people, but it honestly felt nice. The air buzzed with literary excitement. There were plenty of books for all tastes. I personally love literary fiction, and I was very excited to find Mark Salzman. I overheard other people gushing over their hidden gem finds, too. In the end, I got 8 books, 2 postcards, and 1 tote for less than $26. On a normal day, would I have left with all 8 books? No, but I definitely would have left with 4 of them for almost the same price. Great finds with great prices. Will definitely come back on a regular day, too. read more

Half Off Books - FIRE SALE PURCHASE: ~$26 - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

Kids started looking at some of the children's books outside, so we ended up wandering in. Great selection of gently used/new books and DVDs. Even vinyl records! Everything was well-priced. We left with a mini haul of books, including a handful of Harry Potter DVDs for $3 each! We had just been talking about doing a mini-marathon, so it was perfect! :) read more

I have shopped here several times and found quite a few reasonably priced treasures. I have also sold books here on two occasions, and was very happy with the experience. They took all my unwanted books off my hands, and I got a few bucks to buy new books with! The staff here are great, very helpful, kind, and knowledgeable. Every time i've visited, the playlist has been stellar; they've got good music taste, in addition to great service here! The space is nicely sized, lot of books to peruse but not overpacked. Very spacious aisles with ample room to navigate past other people browsing. The space is always clean and well maintained. Their bathroom is also very clean and well-k read more

Half Off Books - Here's an intriguing book I saw in their poetry section. - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

This is by far, one of the best used bookstores I have been to. They have a ton of selection that is thoughtfully curated. They really strive to go for quality. They do offer a few new books as well, especially from popular authors. They also have a record section, a CD section, a manga and comic section and a really nice children's section. This is definitely a place you could spend a good chunk of time in. I grabbed a coffee from a nearby (walkable) coffee shop and strolled the aisles. They frequently have book sales where books are reduced to $2 each! I chose a book on growing roses and a popular contemporary fiction book that was half the price in regular stores. The staff is super friendly and helpful. I even walked away with a free bookstore sticker. read more

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I stumbled across this bookstore during a visit to downtown Fullerton. I went on a hunt to buy a book for a friend that wants to read more this year, and stuck gold because there were so many options to choose from. Books, DVDs, and CDs are all organized, but the staff is ready to help if you need assistance in finding something. The conditions of the books are great. Some are old, but even the older books are still holding up well. They have some special edition books in their glass cases near the register if you collect them. I thought the pricing was great considering how expensive they are at other, larger book stores. Sometimes you get lucky on Amazon, but it felt good giving my money to a small business. They also take donations or will pay cash for your books in case you're looking to get rid of any. I read more

Half Off Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

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Cute little used bookstore in downtown Fullerton! They buy items off you and they have a massive collection of old CDs, books, etc. I didn't purchase anything but if you're looking to complete a collection for a series then this place might have it! read more

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We knew this place from when it was in whittier. Great deals on paperbacks, manga, graphic novels, & movies. Sometimes they price like retail if the item is new, but overall they have a big collection. Everyone's always been nice. Street parking or nearby garage for 3 hours. Highly recommend! read more

Half Off Books is a local bookstore in the Downtown Fullerton area with a nice curation of different books, manga, vinyls, CDs, and DVDs. To get here, they have their own parking lot with some spots or also street parking all around the area. Inside, they have a pretty spacious setup with books neatly organized by genre. Prices are fair here and all of the staff are friendly and welcoming. You can definitely spend up to a couple hours here just browsing at all of the stuff they have. read more

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What a gem! Spent the day in downtown Fullerton with my sisters and this shop was definitely a highlight. Upon walking in we were greeted with a warm smile and live music?!?! Such a pleasant surprise. We had such a great time browsing the clean and extremely organized shelves, serenaded by acoustic Beatles music. Books of all genres (new and used), DVDs/Blu-rays, records, CDs, they have it all. Great prices and lovely people. read more

Half Off Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

I love love love this bookstore! They also buy books everyday, so it's nice to get something back for any old books you're looking to get rid of. They have a great selection and kind staff. It's also just so pretty and cozy inside, and I feel very happy looking around at all the books. Newer or more popular books tend to be higher priced, but they have well priced books in general - and I don't mind paying a bit more for a newer book to support Half Off Books. read more

Half Off Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

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I love this business!!! They have such a wide collection of used (as well as new retail) books and sheet music. The staff are the sweetest and incredibly helpful. The other day, I asked over the phone if they had an Agatha Christie book in stock, and the staff member found both new and used options for me to check out! When I swung by afterwards to pick between the two, I was pleasantly surprised to learn that both books were sub 10 dollars....that's an excellent deal, particularly for a new book. Another staff member offered some book reccomendations as we talked about classic mysteries (a genre I am only really familiar with through Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Christie) and was tipped off about some great novels to check out next time. Independent bookstores have a special place in my heart, and it makes me so happy to have this option in the beautiful and walkable Downtown Fullerton area. It's such a pleasure to be able to walk through a sweet little historic district and finish off a big study day at a cafe with a sweet treat (one for the brain, one for the belly!). Thanks for doing what you're doing, Half Off Books, and I'll see you soon! read more

Newbie to the world of used bookstores. I am merely the UBER driver for my bookish teenager. It is rare for used bookstores to be this clean and organized. Que small business bookstores from the 90s and that is here. It is easy to navigate to your preferred section or take a random stroll down aisle and clearly see what genre it is. And what is even better about here -- the record section. I could flip through for hours. So, if you aren't bookish like me, but love old school records you have a space too. read more

Happened to find this gem after breakfast in downtown Fullerton. LOVE LOVE LOVE this store! Didn't have time to see everything, but the size of the store and inventory are incredible! They also buy used books, records, films! read more

I was excited to read on the web site that "They Buy Books". I have many non-fiction books that my wife is pressuring me to get rid of as she says, "We are not getting any younger". I am now 89 and still in good health. So I loaded up about 50 books and drove over to their shop and carted in my box of books. Twenty minutes later one of the managers d so showed me he had separated the books onto two stacks; the larger stack, he said we can recycle these or you can take them back. The smaller stack of about ten books, he said we offer you $2 for these! I took the money. The experience was disappointing. Probably cost me more for gas to drive over there. Next time I will just donate the bookstore the Salvation Army, where they don't just recycle them? read more

Local used book store that filled with random books. It changes everytime I come here where it is a major hit or miss. Cost wise it isn't cheap still but still cheaper than Barnes and nobles. They have a crazy selection and wide range of books. Worth coming read more

This was probably one of the best used book stores I've been to in Orange County thus far. They have a broad selection of books from children's picture books to adult, and everything in between. They even have smaller genres often forgotten about such as urban planning and woodworking. They offer used new releases as well, which is often hard to find at used book stores. I was super impressed with the cleanliness, titles and organization here. They also sell dvds, cds and records. Overall, great little store in Fullerton. I'll definitely be back. read more

Half Off Books - Self-Help section - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

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I frequently visit thrift book stores and this one was amazing. I originally went for old DVDs for my kids to watch on roadtrips, but quickly decided I needed to tour the books and totes. There is so much to see in this book store, and the value for the quality of the books is very fair. They had every book you can think of, and some cute tiny books up by the register. They also have buy/sell days if you're looking to clean out your bookshelf! The service was efficient and everyone was friendly, I also loved the extra touch of receiving a bookmark upon purchase. The only difficulty I had was finding the place, but when I did, it was worth it! Definitely will be bringing my book friends back to this book store! read more

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Wonderful independent bookshop, selling new and used titles of all genres (as well as other media) - fiction, romance, sci fi, kids, YA, psychology, etc. Staff is helpful. Parking is easy. They have a loyalty program. Check out their big fire sale on most long weekends (Sun-Mon only), where lots of their used books are $2-4. Restroom for customers in the YA section. read more

The selection here really is well curated! LOTS of new popular titles and used books worth reading. They have "Fire Sales" most holidays where green stickers are $3 hardcover, $2 paperback, among some other things. Soooo many books are brand spankin' new, just preowned. I got quite a few manga for way cheaper and much better condition than BookOff, and a lot of hardcover titles for the same prices as you'd see in library book stores. The staff is wonderful, and I highly suggest you grab a basket on the way in. Tons of great finds, and I'm sure a lot of new books all the time. People were buying books like hotcakes this Memorial Day weekend! Also be sure to check the Discount shelves by the bathroom hall. Quite a few titles were $0.25 for hardcovers!! read more

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This place could be better at pricing. I brought in almost 20 books and only got $11, and my aunt brought in the same amount and only got $8 for HARDCOPYS!!! This place is a rip off, I don't recommend. Most books were not used and in brand new condition, I can't even buy a book with the money I got. Dissatisfied!!!! read more

Great little book shop across the street from a great little coffee shop (Pilgrims). I've been to this book shop often. They have great prices on kids books. Just got 2 used books for my 8 yr old for about 2 dollars a piece, can't beat that. They also have a section for used records and movies (dvds and vhs). Service is friendly and helpful when asked questions. Dog friendly as well, you can walk in with your leashed (well mannered) pup. read more

Half Off Books - Inside - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

Love the variety of books you can find at the bookstore. You can also sell books you don't read anymore to them. A lot of used books go on sale for $1-3 during certain holidays. Come check them out! read more

Brought 8 books to trade half off for emergency, I came by twice! First time they sent me home because I was a few mins late after the 12pm mark, 2nd time today!! 1 of my 7 books was wet which I understood they couldn't take, but they said they couldn't take any of them!!! The others weren't wet! I went back to front desk to ask for info as if I can still bring them back later, they said yes but we won't pay for any of them!?! I don't get it! They weren't wet nor beat up. Do not come here. Bogus' help tell you that much. I wasted 41 miles to get here each time! 2 thumbs down read more

It is so great to see places like this still around. Best shopping experience ever! You could stay here all day and find some amazing stuff.

Call me old school but I still like the feel and smell of a hard copy of a great book and and zone out while reading, which this place provides exactly that. They have a great selections of not only books but also various media such as LP, DVD, Blu-Ray, etc. The store is very clean and all the items are categorized and organized very well that you won't have a problem finding the product you want or need. Some of the books are a little bit on the pricey side compare to Amazon but they do have rare books so I would definitely check this place out before going any further. This place is very quiet like a library and have booths to sit, which is so nice to chill and hang out. I haven't had a chance to interact with the clerks but they were very diligent sorting out, stocking, pricing, etc. I'm pretty sure if you are looking for a certain product, they will be happily to assist you as they all looked very friendly. read more

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We've been here a couple times and bought books for my kid. We picked up magazines for 1.00 and they were still in pretty good condition. Bookstore well organized and cool selection of books, magazines, DVD's/CD's. I saw that they bought books so decided to bring in books that I had and some current still brand new. 8.00 is what they gave for the pile of books. I wish I took a pic of the books before I turned them in. I wish I read the reviews before coming here and I would've just sold the books elsewhere or donate to our local library. Same books I turned in they're selling for 14.00!!! Some books in pile: (Britney Spears memoir) (Colleen Hoover) (Ruth Ware) (John Stamos Memoir) Magpie Murders (Margaret Atwood) read more

Stumbled into this bookstore after having some coffee down the street and I am so glad we did! We found some of the cutest and most affordable second had books (and some new) for my littles. They have a wide variety of books. And some great children's clearance books as well. I was looking for some things in specific and the service was excellent, can't wait to come back! read more

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I used to buy books here and enjoyed their great selection. This was my first time to sell books and records with them. However, it was a disappointing experience. I don't think it was worth my gas money, time (waiting for 30 mins for review), and energy to sell my two full medium-size boxes of books and records for what they offered me - $10. Perhaps this is worth it to others, but I would donate instead of coming back here to sell things again. read more

Don't recommend selling your books here. If you're buying it's a great second hand bookstore. I brought in 40 books to sell. Many of which are in great condition and I would consider to be popular books. They offered me a whopping total of $17. That would be like 40 CENTS per book. I totally understand that they need to make a profit as well but less than a dollar per book is just insulting. read more

Half Off Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

I just brought 19 books in. 6 books released in 2024, 7 books released in 2023, 3 released in 2022, 1 released in 2020, and 1 released in 2021. There was also one book that had a little water damage that I didn't notice at first, so I do not fault them for not wanting to take that. So essentially 16 of my books were in good condition are less than 3 years old. They offered me a total of $5. I fully understand that used book stores sell books at a steep discount, but every book I picked up in that store was listed for at least $6.97. They told me that every single one of my books would only be able to sell for $1. Granted the 2 that are more than 3 years old that's completely understandable but everything else does not add up to me. I would rather donate my books to my local library than sell each of them for $0.31. Maybe the issue is that I don't read the style of books that they sell because I did not see any authors I like (I.E. Emily Henry, Katherine Center, Lynn Painter, Mary Kubica and many more current popular others). They did have 3 full shelves (about 50 books) of Colleen Hoover, which I find very off putting and should have been my first indication that I don't belong here. I will not be returning especially since Fullerton is just a little too far out of my way for a selection of books I'm unlikely to enjoy. The one person I interacted with was friendly! read more

Half Off Books - Bookstores Near Me - Fullerton, California

Half Off Books is my favorite used bookstore. The employees are helpful when answering my questions and make me feel welcome in the store. The books sell at great prices with some even in great condition. Another great thing is that they have a good variety of contemporary fiction, DVDs, and manga. The store's "half-off" name doesn't lie because of their great deals. For example, one fiction book I saw in good condition sold at about half of Amazon's pricing. If you shop at this store repeatedly, I'd recommend giving your phone number when you make a purchase to take advantage of their rewards program. I also appreciate that the employees wear masks while working to protect against the spread of infectious diseases. With COVID-19 still a pandemic, I'd rather take precautions and also wear a mask because I can't afford to contract or spread it. read more

I absolutely love this place. In an era where bookstores are disappearing like record and DVD shops, it's refreshing to find a spot like this still thriving. I came across some great Blu-rays at very reasonable prices, which was a nice surprise. I was a bit disappointed not to find any Agatha Christie titles--maybe they sell out quickly, which wouldn't be surprising. The store has a warm, inviting atmosphere, though it could benefit from a few cozy seating areas and maybe even an in-store coffee bar to encourage browsing and lingering. The overall vibe reminds me of a "Costco for books"--a bit ironic, considering Costco no longer sells books. Customer service was excellent, and the store is just a short walk from the Fullerton train station, making it easy to get to. Definitely worth a visit if you love the treasure hunt of finding books, movies, and more. read more

I love you half off books :D every time I go it's a hit! Today I found a Clarice Lespector for 10$! Great deals and a pretty good selection of books, though I usually browse the fiction section. This is the only used books store in the area worth going to...... read more

such a cool bookstore! they have a good variety of books, cds, records, and really anything physical media. i came in on a whim one day without knowing about this spot prior to checking it out and i was in awe of the selection. i had been looking for 11/22/63 by stephen king and couldn't find it at any barnes & noble or any bookstore in my area and i found a hard cover here for $17! no flaws, the copy was in perfect condition and i got it for such a great deal. the staff was really helpful as well. i'm hoping to come back soon to shop again after i finish my book and to hopefully sell some books of mine as well. really recommend this place!! read more

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I love this book shop so much. It has a little bit of everything, Records, VHS , DVDs and lots of wonderful books! everyone here is very friendly and helpful. I can't wait to come back. -Christina read more

I don't usually rate non-restaurant businesses but I do have to agree with other reviews here on Yelp about the laughable compensation for books here. I brought in about 15 books. I was explicitly told 3 of them were considered more "desirable" and would be sold for about $8 EACH.. Then the sales person proceeded to offer me a grand total of $8 for the stack of 15 books I brought in... Anyone who is an avid reader/book buyer like myself knows books cost $15-30 meaning that for the amount books I donated I was essentially throwing away at least $200. I honestly don't enjoy being confrontational with strangers (especially those who are simply doing their job) and decided that since I was already there and had been waiting to get rid of this books for a few weeks now I didn't care and took the $8. Now from my experience shopping around, during the few minutes they were evaluating my books, I noticed they had a great selection of popular books however there were also a lot of "brand new condition" books being sold at full price. This was off putting because no where does this book store advertise themselves as an Independent Bookseller.. The name is literally "Half Off Books." Overall I would definitely recommend browsing their selection bc you may find a good book for a decent price however I do not understand how anyone continues to sell their books to this business and would not recommend anyone to do so. read more

After finding this bookstore on Yelp, I visited around 5 p.m. on 9/14 to sell three of my books. I arrived in a good mood, but the staff member who assisted me seemed noticeably irritated that I was selling books. While I had no issue with the $2 offer he made, his tone was unnecessarily rude, and a little more politeness and enthusiasm would have made the experience much better. Now, being aware that they only do buying for books you bring in from 10 am-2 pm, it would be helpful for future sellers if the store listed it on their Yelp bio. Overall 3/5 star experience. I love the store, though! read more

LOVE used bookstores like this, where the prices are great and the staff is passionate and knowledgeable about the books they carry. My favorite part is checking out which books are highlighted to be shown cover first on the display sections. An example of this is their philosophy section. It was interesting to see Book of Five Rings, Machiavelli, Kierkegaard, and Sun Tzu next to each other. Since so many words are screen based now I haven't read books in months. Coming here and picking up some things for myself and my children resparked my own passion for cozying up on the couch or in bed with printed pages. My kids loved the Bernstein bear book and the little Halloween book. Great prices and it's been on rotation for when my wife and I read to them. Ayn Rand's Anthem is almost a prototype for her later novels, its her first use of a mysterious "word" similar to "Who is John Galt" in Atlas Shrugged. I am totally unembarrassed to love her writing while totally disagreeing with her personal beliefs. She writes such beautiful sentences about architecture, rocks in a quarry, smoking a cigarette, etc...it's worth it to read these treasures while trudging through the more polarizing and binary thinking on Collectivism Vs. Individualism. Murakami is always a surreal and somewhat confusing read; drifting from mundane daily life, to horrifying, to imaginative fantasy. There are undercurrents of darkness in his work that linger with you. Korean cinematic masterpiece "Burning" is based on his short story "Barn Burning read more

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Service has workers who are very familiar with the books and where they're located. Selection has something for everyone. The value of the prices are great for good conditioned books. read more

I use to frequent this place when I was a college student years ago at CSUF so I wanted to give back and sell my books here. However,I'm never returning again, neither as a customer nor as a seller. I sold them over $200 worth of books that had been in great condition and got offered a heinous $8. They told me I needed to wait 45 minutes as other people had donated before me-no big deal, I left. In those 45 minutes, I had a scheduling conflict where I needed to pick up my special needs sibling from school early as he was sick and they immediately replied that unless I show up by 5, it'll be considered a donation and they can't hold anything. Who said I asked you to hold anything? I'm in a circumstance beyond my control. I would not recommend ever selling this place anything. I regret from the bottom of my heart giving my books to this place and I would advise everyone else to sell them elsewhere or donate them to a charity or organization of their choosing. I cannot believe the audacity of these low ball offers. read more