as soon as i turn 18, i’m planning on starting a business. i’ll also be going to school to get a business degree, but i’d like to open a business while i’ve still young and ambitious. 
i’m currently working on a business plan, so any information you have about getting books, how to compete with “big bookstores”, or any other helpful information would be much appreciated!
i’m currently working on a business plan, so any information you have about getting books, how to compete with “big bookstores”, or any other helpful information would be much appreciated! 
3 Responses to i’m a young entrepreneur thinking of starting a used bookstore. how do I go about getting donations?
Don’t count too much on “donations”. Once people know that you’re going to be using them for a used bookstore…and making money selling them…then they will expect to be paid something for their old books.
Most used bookstores I’ve been to pay like 50 or 75 cents for a used paperback and then sell them for 1.50 or 2.00. They will also give store credit of .75 or 1.00 for books, rather than pay out cash. the store credit can then be used to buy other books. (Sort of like a trade-in plan.)
You can try for donations by advertising in free “recycler” or “Pennysaver” type publications, or posting to “freecycle” web sites. Otherwise, start checking out garage sales, thrift stores, library sales, etc. and buy books cheaply that you think you can resell for more.
You better ask more than about donations…like getting licenses, tax permits, a place to operate from, insurance (CYA, you know), being up to code (fire extinguishers/emergency exits/ADA-compliant), etc. etc.
I admire you for being almost 18 and wanting to go into business. I have been in business for over 30 years and love it. I recommend you first complete Note “complete” your business degree. Many people go to college but only a few finish. You will benefit greatly from a completed business degree.
I have over 3000 books.
I suggest if you are going to beat the big stores you will have to specialize. e.g. sell used religious books, childrens books, novels, ghost stories, authors,etc. Collect and sell used books in different catagories, specialize.
Start out slow and small. Buy small lots in different catagories sell them on e-bay etc. If a catagory of book sells buy more in that catagory. Go slow, take your time and learn the business and what sells. Don’t over buy.
I have to go, best of luck.
Karl