03/20/08

A Descent into the Throes of Madness, I like it here

by natetie

I'll admit that I'm biased about the Book Trader because I work here, but I'm also a regular customer of this and many other used book shops in Philly. Each shop definitely has it's own style, and perhaps it's own philosophy. At the Book Trader, the philosophy is to have more books than there is shelf space for. I don't think it's intentional, but it sort of just happens. The result is a treasure hunting experience for the customer, which only sometimes yields successful results. A book loving person will probably not mind this. However, it can be a daunting task if you are looking for something specific, or if you are claustrophobic (there are towering stacks of books everywhere, some as tall as a person).

I've read reviews on other sites complaining about the poor customer service. I'll only say this: some of the staff is more helpful than others. We are not following any set policy like some corporate cookie cutter slaves. If you talk to me, I will probably help you more than you need. If I'm not there, talk to the muscle-bound guy with the tattoos. He probably knows more about what's in the store than anybody.

About trading: The Book Trader offers store credit in the amount of 10% of the cover price. Hence more recently published books mean better credit. Cash is not offered for book trades. we usually ask for trades to be left so we can take our time to process them and call you back with a credit you receive. Every Thursday night we throw out boxes of books we can't use after 8pm, so come and take them if you want.

I hope I'm not being unethical by writing this. I'm not trying to be unethical. Honestly, I'm not getting anything out of the except the chance to talk to you in the future, which could be good or bad, depending on who you are.

• Pros: Tons of books. Usually a nice atmosphere.
• Cons: I could take or leave the staff. You might not find what you're looking for.