Explore local bookstores that sell or specialize in rare books, used books or discounted warehouse books. These stores are your first port of call and often carry a wide range of hard-to-find and out-of-print selections. In addition, the owners of these stores are often a fountain of knowledge and can give you an idea of how easy or difficult your book search might prove to be. Ask secondhand bookstore owners for their help and advice.
Search for your books on the BookFinder web site. This search engine will automatically check other bookstore websites that sell out-of-print books such as AbeBooks, Alibris, Amazon and The Book Depository. Finding books that are out-of-print has never been easier with a host of web sites specializing in selling secondhand and rare books. Take a look on eBay as well, as it allows for individuals to sell their used books to the public.
Visit your local library to see which books they currently have for sale. Some libraries offer annual or bi-annual book sales, while others have sections where they constantly have used books for sale. In addition, check thrift stores and antique dealers, as these will have small sections of used books.
Place an ad in the classified section of the newspaper. Someone out there may own copies of the book you are searching for and will feel prompted to sell it if they know people out there actually want it. Be aware that classified ads cost money, and this may prove to be an expensive option. Research how much the book you want is worth and if advertising for it is a viable option for you.
Drop in on garage sales. People who are moving or doing a spring cleaning often sell entire boxes of books at these garage sales for very low prices . Check the newspaper and drive around your local neighborhood on a Saturday morning to see who is running a garage sale.