If you’ve ever shopped for textbooks, whether in physical stores or online, you’ve likely noticed many used books adorned with large stickers proclaiming, “USED BOOK!” But are these stickers merely there to announce the book’s status, or is there more to them?
These stickers and the occasional black tape obscuring parts of the book’s cover can sometimes conceal less obvious details about the book’s history.
1) Varying ISBNs
A common but relatively harmless issue is the presence of a different ISBN than expected. Consider a scenario where a student buys a bundle that includes a textbook and an access code. The textbook itself has an ISBN linked to the bundle and is often listed as such on buyback platforms. If the access code is used and the textbook is subsequently returned to the bookstore, the store may re-label it with a sticker displaying the ISBN for just the textbook, selling it independently of the original bundle.
2) Instructor’s Editions
It’s not uncommon to receive books so covered in stickers and tape that their original covers are nearly indistinguishable. Often hidden beneath these layers are labels like “Instructor’s Edition” or “Teacher’s Edition,” along with their specific ISBNs. These versions are intended for educational professionals and are not meant to be resold as standard textbooks.
3) Complimentary Copies
The range of complimentary items, including review copies, free copies, uncorrected proofs, and items marked “not for sale” or “not for resale,” often find their way into the second-hand market. It’s important to ensure these are not sold as they are not intended for resale.
Below, you’ll find examples of what to look out for when buying or selling used textbooks. Our Buyback Condition Guide offers additional tips and information on how to handle these situations.
If you’re uncertain about the condition or ISBN of your textbooks, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us or send photos of your book before shipping it.