LIST: 7 secondhand bookstores around Metro Manila
For true bibliophiles, the journey doesn't start when they crack open a book—it begins in a bookstore. The thrill of sifting through titles, running your fingers along spines, and ultimately selecting the ideal companion for your literary journey.
However, buying brand-new books is not always practical for everyone's budget, not to mention the environmental footprint associated with its production.
Fortunately, the bustling metro boasts an array of stores dedicated to the secondhand and pre-loved book market. Here, you'll find literary treasures at significantly reduced prices, all while contributing to recycling and sustainability efforts and saving these works from ultimately ending up in a landfill.
Books For Less
As the name suggests, Books For Less is a chain of stores where you can get secondhand books for less than the original price. Conveniently situated across numerous prominent malls around the metro, this book lover’s haven ensures you can indulge your reading passions without straining your wallet.
And here’s the real treat: If you’re feeling a bit too cozy at home, you can still dive into their treasure trove of affordable books on their website, Shopee, or Lazada! They offer a wide collection of pre-loved titles ranging in different genres. Whether you're an avid reader of literary classics, a business enthusiast seeking the latest textbooks, or someone looking for a dose of improvement through insightful self-help books, Books For Less has something waiting just for you.
Biblio
Biblio, also owned by Books For Less, is a carefully curated bookstore that offers an assortment of imported, secondhand books. Deriving its name from the Greek word biblion, which translates to “book,” Biblio proudly stands as your ultimate destination for pre-loved library treasures across different malls in the city!
Their journey in Manila began back in 2016 when they opened their first branch at UP Town Center. Since then, they've flourished with additional locations sprinkled across the bustling city. When you step through their inviting doors, you're welcome to explore the wonders they have in stock.
Plus, at select locations, you'll find cozy tables and chairs awaiting guests who wish to immerse themselves in a book
Bookay-Ukay
Who would have thought that the thrifting magic of "ukay-ukay" extends to books? Enter Bookay-Ukay Pilipinas, a well-loved independent bookstore right here in the heart of Metro Manila.
Back in 2008, a passionate bookworm named Dan Gaffud brought this literary gem to life, curating a collection of books handpicked with utmost care. But he didn't stop there. Over time, he started introducing mainstream reads into the mix, broadening their appeal to an even larger audience of book enthusiasts.
Now, the best part—prices at Bookay-Ukay start as low as P80. However, if you're planning a visit, make sure to set that alarm clock a tad earlier to get first dibs on their finest collections.
You'll find this bookish treasure trove tucked away at No. 78, Maginhawa Street, Teachers’ Village, Diliman, Quezon City. It is open every day, welcoming visitors from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m
Roel's Bookshop
Maginhawa Street in Quezon City isn't just a haven for foodies seeking culinary delights; it's also a hidden gem for book enthusiasts, thanks to Roel's Bookshop. Now, here's the exciting part: they've got an array of books priced as low as P40!
Roel's isn't your run-of-the-mill bookshop. It's a cozy nook where you can not only shop but also unwind, surrounded by an eclectic assortment of rare and out-of-print books, along with fascinating antique discoveries. From riveting fiction and captivating graphic novels to thought-provoking social sciences, religion, enlightening essays, and an abundance of other literary treasures—you name it, they've got it.
And guess what? Even if your schedule is jam-packed, there's no need to fret. You can find them on Facebook too.
Chapter IX Bookstore & Gallery
Prepare to dive into a world of literary treasures, where you'll uncover rare gems and a meticulously curated collection of fantastic reads. Gary Montenegro, the visionary behind this haven, has transformed Chapter IX Bookstore into something truly special: a sanctuary crafted with bibliophiles in mind.
Through his shop and personalized book recommendations, Gary becomes an integral part of his customers' literary journeys, helping them forge beautiful memories intertwined with the magic of books. And the best part? The books here start at just P49, making it an accessible paradise for book lovers on a budget.
Located at 3 Arasimis, Project 7, Quezon City, Chapter IX Bookstore & Gallery warmly welcomes you to explore its treasures from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday, as well as from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. For those eager to connect or inquire further, the Chapter IX team is just a message away on their Facebook page.
Secondhand Books Philippines
The name really says it all: Secondhand Books Philippines is your go-to independent bookstore where you can snag some incredible deals on pre-loved books that won't put a dent in your wallet.
Their collection spans a wide array of genres, offering everything from insightful self-help and essential business books to trusty textbooks and timeless classics. Believe it or not, you can score some of these literary gems for as low as P20.
Secondhand Books Philippines has also set up shops on Facebook and Shopee so fellow bookworms can easily browse, click, and add to cart from the comforts of their own homes.
Porch Reader
Porch Reader is not just your average bookstore, it's a haven carefully crafted by book enthusiasts, with a mission to warm the hearts of fellow book lovers. They're not just about selling pre-loved and brand-new books, spanning the realms of both fiction and non-fiction, at incredibly wallet-friendly prices.
Aside from looking for a new read, this charming little bookstore for book enthusiasts also helps those in need. Here's how it works: every book you purchase from Porch Reader contributes to their noble cause. So, every time you seek out a new literary adventure, you're also creating opportunities for others to embark on their own reading journeys.
You can buy their books online or on Facebook, but for those who like to browse the physical shelves, Porch Reader's charming little nook is nestled in Valenzuela, where you can soak in the cozy atmosphere while exploring their bookish treasures.