3 Unusual Ways To Get More Out of Your Old Books

As a regular reader, it’s natural to have book shelves overflowing with books, both new and old.

Even after reading books, to some extent, it’s great to still have them around for reference purposes, to revisit them occasionally, or to give them out to friends or family if a need to arises.

Other times, however, there’s a need to dispose of them or donate them to prevent them from merely collecting dust. At such points, instead of tossing the books, the vital information within them, and the dollars behind them, there are better ways to get rid of them and also derive benefits at the same time.

That said, below are some efficient ways to get more out of your old books.

1. Use book buyback services

Book buyback services offer the ability to get rid of old books and still derive benefits; these services buy used books and resell them to low income earners or to industries that recycle papers for various purposes.

This remains the most lucrative way of getting rid of used books. The only problem, however, could be finding a reliable vendor who would offer a decent price. Platforms like BookScouter or Amazon are built to solve this problem, as they serve as an extension to connect you, the seller, with reliable vendors.

2. Creative DIY home crafts

On the other end, however, the used books occupying your shelf might be a little outdated, and may even lack an ISBN number. In such cases, book buyback services might not be the perfect option.

Instead, consider turning them into unique and attractive home tools that’ll leave friends and family in awe.

Below are few options to consider:

A book clock: With a little effort and inexpensive kits, you can start keeping track of time in style by turning your once favorite book into a sophisticated modern day clock; the only problem: Be ready to provide answers on the “how-to” when friends inquire about it.
Books lamp stand: Maybe all you ever wanted is to be unique. Well, consider piling up a bunch of old books in an attractive manner after which a lamp will be mounted on the top. Now you can start illuminating darkness, and uniquely, too.
Book safe: Create a new home for your treasures where no one will ever imagine to look for them. Reach for a used textbook (a large textbook will be more effective) and make a neat hollow space within. Afterward, you can neatly place your treasured possessions within and lay back with no worries — who would randomly search for stuff in a textbook?
iPhone charging dock: How cool to know that your regular charger can be instantly turned into an amazing doc stand with the help of used books? Without spending a dime, just a little touch here and there, and you have your fancy doc stand.

3. Use for decorations and fashion

Arts may not really be your thing, or you might not really fancy any of the above DIY crafts. However, who wouldn’t like a little touch of attractive decorations in their home or office? Your old books can become handy here.

Below are some interesting decorative projects you should consider working on with your used books:

Book picture frame: With your old books, you can turn your memorable moments into a place to explore for your friends and guests. It’s time to use your old books to create new memories.
Blackout poetry: With some pages from a used book, you can take a pencil and underline words or phrases as you stumble through the book. Afterward, use a dark ink to strike out the unwanted words. Assemble the pages in a journal or a smaller book and you just created an inexpensive, awesome piece of poetry your friends would be delighted to receive as a gift. You can also place them on the walls as a decorative piece.
Paper necklace: Perhaps you have a quote from your favorite author. Consider cutting out the piece neatly. Afterwards, enclose them within a beautiful glass pendant. Friends and family will be amazed at your creativity.

Do you have any other ideas on how to get more from your old books? I’d be happy to hear your views.

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