The mail order book industry is a sector dedicated to the sale and distribution of books through online platforms. Companies range from independent bookstores to large retail giants, each offering a unique selection of new and used books, audiobooks, and other media. With the increasing reliance on e-commerce, this industry is adapting to customer preferences for convenience and affordability. Many companies are now incorporating global shipping and sustainability practices. The future may see further integration of technology, such as personalized recommendations and subscription models, shaping how readers access literature.

This list includes 22 notable mail order book companies, ranging from larger entities like Powell's Books, established in 1971, to new entrants like Bookshop.org, founded in 2020. These businesses vary in size, with employee counts from small teams of less than 50 to larger organizations with over 1,000 staff members. They specialize in various niches from rare collections to academic texts, often reflecting geographical diversity, as seen with companies located in the USA, Brazil, and Austria.

Read on to discover more about the top mail order book companies.

Top 22 Mail Order Book Companies Companies

1. Powell's Books

• Website: powells.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Portland, Oregon, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: powell%27s-books

Powell's Books, based in Portland, Oregon, is a prominent bookstore chain that has been serving book lovers since its founding in 1971. The company offers an extensive selection of new, used, rare, and out-of-print books, appealing to a wide audience of readers. Powell's operates both online and through its physical stores, allowing customers to browse and purchase books conveniently. The website features various categories, including bestsellers, staff picks, and themed collections, which enhance the shopping experience. Powell's is also known for its community engagement, hosting author events and book signings, further solidifying its role in the literary community. With a dedicated team of booksellers, Powell's Books continues to thrive in the competitive book retail industry, providing a unique shopping experience for its customers.

2. ThriftBooks

• Website: thriftbooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Seattle, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: thrift-books

ThriftBooks, founded in 2003 and based in Seattle, Washington, operates as an online bookstore that specializes in used books and media. With a catalog boasting over 13 million titles, ThriftBooks caters to consumers seeking affordable reading materials. The company has carved out a niche in the market by focusing on sustainability, offering free shipping on orders over $15, and utilizing recyclable packaging. Their Reading Rewards program encourages customer engagement by allowing users to earn points for purchases, which can be redeemed for free books. ThriftBooks also provides a buyback service, enabling customers to sell their books for cash or store credit. This multifaceted approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also positions ThriftBooks as a significant player in the online book retail industry.

3. Better World Books

• Website: betterworldbooks.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Mishawaka, Indiana, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $18.0M, May 2016
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: better-world-books

Better World Books, founded in 2002 and based in Mishawaka, Indiana, is an online bookstore that specializes in selling both used and new books, along with digital media such as ebooks and audiobooks. The company sources its inventory through college book drives and library donations, which allows it to offer affordable reading materials to consumers and organizations. Better World Books is also committed to promoting literacy initiatives, making it a socially responsible choice for book buyers. With a workforce of approximately 237 employees, the company has a significant presence in the industry. It has received $18 million in funding, indicating investor confidence in its business model and growth potential. The company operates primarily in the United States, with a smaller presence in the United Kingdom, and actively engages with its customers through a rewards program and various promotional offers.

4. Hachette Book Group

• Website: hachettebookgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hachette-book-group

Hachette Book Group is a prominent book publisher based in New York, established in 2006. The company specializes in a wide array of literary genres, including fiction, nonfiction, and audiobooks. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, Hachette Book Group plays a crucial role in the publishing industry, providing access to a vast catalog of books that features both bestsellers and award-winning titles. They serve consumers through their online store, where readers can purchase books directly, reflecting their commitment to reaching audiences in both physical and digital formats. Hachette Book Group is a division of Hachette Livre, which ranks as the third-largest publisher globally, further solidifying its influence in the market. Their catalog includes works from notable authors and spans various genres, making them a significant entity in the book publishing sector.

5. Bookshop.org

• Website: bookshop.org
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brooklyn, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%, Cambodia 8%
• Latest funding: Pre-seed, $875,000, August 2020
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bookshoporg

Bookshop.org is an online bookstore based in Brooklyn, New York, founded in 2020. It serves as a marketplace for books, aiming to support local, independent bookstores. The platform allows consumers to purchase a wide variety of books, gift cards, and promotional offers while contributing to the sustainability of independent retailers. Bookshop.org has successfully raised over $32 million for local bookstores, highlighting its commitment to fostering community and supporting small businesses. The company has a significant presence in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Cambodia, with a workforce that reflects its global reach. Its innovative approach to online book sales positions it as a relevant and impactful player in the book retail industry.

6. BookPeople

• Website: bookpeople.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Austin, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bookpeople

BookPeople, based in Austin, Texas, is a prominent independent bookstore that has been serving the community since 1970. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable booksellers, BookPeople provides a wide array of books, gifts, and related products tailored to meet the needs of consumers, businesses, and organizations. They are particularly noted for their personalized book recommendations and bulk order options, catering to various customer segments. The company also actively engages with the community by hosting events and programming for all age groups, fostering a love for literature and reading. BookPeople has received accolades for its contributions to the local literary scene, including being named Publisher’s Weekly’s bookstore of the year in 2005. Their 'Books by Mail' service allows customers to conveniently order books online, making them a relevant option for those seeking mail order book services.

7. Liberty Books Pvt Ltd.

• Website: libertybooks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan
• Employee distribution: Pakistan 100%
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: libertybooks

Liberty Books Pvt Ltd. is an online bookstore based in Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan, founded in 1952. The company specializes in offering a wide array of books, including fiction, non-fiction, and children's literature. With a commitment to serving book enthusiasts and students alike, Liberty Books has developed a robust e-commerce platform that allows customers to easily browse and purchase books from the comfort of their homes. The company has positioned itself as a significant player in the Pakistani book market, providing access to over 50,000 titles across multiple categories. Their focus on customer convenience and a broad selection of literature has helped them remain relevant in the competitive online retail space.

8. Christianbook

• Website: christianbook.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Peabody, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2021
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: christian-book-distributors

Christianbook, founded in 1978 and based in Peabody, Massachusetts, is a retail company that specializes in Christian literature and products. The company offers a wide array of items, including Bibles, books, gifts, and church supplies, primarily targeting consumers interested in religious materials for personal use or gifting. With a robust online store, Christianbook provides easy access to its offerings, making it a convenient option for customers. The company has established itself as a significant player in the Christian retail market, focusing on both individual consumers and church organizations. Their commitment to customer service and community engagement is evident through various initiatives, including a rewards program and a prayer wall on their website. Christianbook's ability to adapt to market trends and consumer needs has allowed it to remain relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of online retail.

9. Casa del Libro

• Website: casadellibro.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Madrid, Madrid, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1923
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: casa-del-libro

Casa del Libro, based in Madrid, Spain, is a private retail company specializing in the sale of books and eBooks. Established in 1923, it has grown to become a prominent name in the Spanish book market. The company offers a vast selection of literature, catering to various genres and audiences, including consumers, educational institutions, and businesses. Casa del Libro operates a robust online store, allowing customers to purchase books and related products conveniently. They provide free shipping on orders above a certain threshold and offer the option for customers to collect their orders at one of their numerous physical bookstores. With a workforce of approximately 1,550 employees, the company is primarily focused on the Spanish market, reflecting its deep-rooted presence in the local book retail industry.

10. Librarie.net SRL

• Website: librarie.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Craiova, Dolj, Romania
• Employee distribution: Romania 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: librarienet

Librarie.net SRL, based in Craiova, Dolj, Romania, is an online bookstore that has been operational since 2001. The company specializes in a wide range of products, including fiction, school manuals, and children's literature. It primarily serves consumers, particularly students and parents, by providing accessible educational resources and reading materials through its e-commerce platform. With a workforce of 11 to 50 employees, Librarie.net has established itself as a significant player in the Romanian book market. The company focuses on delivering quality educational content, which is increasingly important in today's digital age. Their offerings include not only books but also educational tools and toys, further enhancing their appeal to families and educators alike.

11. Alibris

• Website: alibris.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Canada 7%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $4.8M, February 2004
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: alibris

Alibris, founded in 1998 and based in Berkeley, California, is an online marketplace that specializes in the sale of books, music, and movies. The platform connects consumers with a vast array of products, including rare and out-of-print books, which are often hard to find elsewhere. Alibris allows sellers to list their items, providing them with global exposure through partnerships with other sites. The company has a strong focus on customer satisfaction, offering tools and rewards to sellers to enhance their sales experience. With a marketplace that features over 270 million items, Alibris serves a broad audience, from casual readers to serious collectors. The company has received funding, with its last round being a Series E-K in 2004, amounting to $4.8 million, which has likely supported its growth and operational capabilities.

12. Barnes and Noble

• Website: barnesandnoble.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Greeley, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $683.0M, June 2019
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: barnes-and-noble

Barnes & Noble Booksellers, founded in 1917, is a prominent retail company specializing in bookselling. With approximately 600 retail stores across the United States, the company caters to a broad audience by offering a wide selection of books, eBooks, and audiobooks. Barnes and Noble has adapted to the changing market by enhancing its online shopping experience, allowing customers to purchase books conveniently from home. The company also engages in various promotional activities and partnerships to attract readers. In 2019, Barnes and Noble secured $683 million in funding, indicating investor confidence in its business model and future prospects. This funding supports its operations and initiatives aimed at maintaining relevance in the competitive book retail market.

13. Livraria Leitura

• Website: leitura.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: livraria-leitura

Livraria Leitura, founded in 1967 and based in Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, is a private retail company that specializes in books and related products. With a workforce of approximately 1,692 employees, the company has established a robust presence in the Brazilian market. Livraria Leitura offers a wide array of book categories, including self-help, fiction, and children's literature, alongside stationery and gift items. Their online platform allows individual consumers to easily access educational and recreational reading materials. The company operates numerous physical stores across Brazil, enhancing its reach and customer engagement. Livraria Leitura's commitment to providing a comprehensive selection of books and related products positions it as a significant player in the Brazilian book retail sector.

14. Harvard Book Store

• Website: harvard.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1932
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: harvard-book-store

Harvard Book Store, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is an independent bookstore that has been serving the community since 1932. It offers a broad selection of books, including bestsellers, children's literature, and used books, alongside digital audiobooks. The store is not just a retail space; it actively engages with the literary community by hosting events that connect authors with readers. This includes ticketed events and discussions that foster a love for literature. Additionally, Harvard Book Store provides various services such as a Frequent Buyer Program and a Signed First Edition Club, which cater to avid readers and collectors. The store's commitment to quality and community involvement positions it as a significant player in the book retail industry, particularly in the mail order segment, where it facilitates online orders and shipping across the United States.

15. Thalia Buch & Medien GmbH

• Website: thalia.at
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Linz, Upper Austria, Austria
• Employee distribution: Austria 68%, Germany 32%
• Founded year: 1918
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: thalia-buch-%26-medien-gmbh

Thalia Buch & Medien GmbH, founded in 1918, is a prominent book retailer based in Linz, Upper Austria. The company operates a robust online store alongside its physical locations in Austria and Germany. Thalia offers a wide array of products, including traditional books, eBooks, audiobooks, and various related items. Their commitment to providing educational resources and reading materials is evident in their extensive catalog. Thalia also engages customers through initiatives like the Thalia Bonuscard, which rewards frequent shoppers, and they provide services such as Click & Collect, enhancing the convenience of their offerings. With a workforce of around 216 employees, Thalia maintains a significant presence in the book retail market, focusing on both individual consumers and educational sectors.

16. Livraria da Vila

• Website: livrariadavila.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: livraria-da-vila

Livraria da Vila, founded in 1985, is a prominent retail bookstore based in São Paulo, Brazil. The company operates multiple physical locations and an online store, providing a wide array of books, electronics, and related products. It serves a broad audience, including avid readers and students, by offering literature that spans various genres and educational materials. Livraria da Vila is dedicated to fostering a culture of reading and education, believing that books are essential tools for personal and societal growth. Their online platform facilitates convenient shopping, allowing customers to explore and purchase books from the comfort of their homes. The company has maintained a strong presence in the Brazilian market for nearly four decades, reflecting its commitment to the literary community and its adaptability in the evolving retail landscape.

17. Books & Books

• Website: booksandbooks.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Coral Gables, Florida, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 66%, Pakistan 11%, Colombia 11%, Other 11%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: books-and-books

Books & Books is an independent bookstore based in Coral Gables, Florida, founded in 1982. With a dedicated team of approximately 96 employees, this family-owned business has established itself as a vital part of the local community. They offer a wide selection of books, e-books, audiobooks, and merchandise, catering to the literary needs of residents, students, and educators. Beyond just selling books, Books & Books actively engages with the community through various events, including author readings, book clubs, and culinary experiences. They also provide services such as corporate and educational sales, which include discounts and special programs for schools and businesses. Their commitment to promoting literacy and cultural enrichment is evident in their ongoing community partnerships and initiatives. While they have not reported any funding, their long-standing presence and community involvement highlight their relevance in the book industry.

18. Libraccio

• Website: libraccio.it
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Milan, Lombardy, Italy
• Employee distribution: Italy 100%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: libraccio

Libraccio, based in Milan, Lombardy, Italy, is a private book retailer that has been operational since 1979. The company specializes in providing a broad selection of new and used books, eBooks, and audiobooks, catering primarily to students, educators, and general consumers. With a workforce of approximately 222 employees, Libraccio emphasizes affordability, making literature and educational materials accessible to a wide audience. Customers can conveniently purchase items directly from their website, and the platform also facilitates the sale of used books, fostering a sustainable approach to book consumption. Libraccio's offerings include a variety of genres and subjects, ensuring that it meets the needs of its diverse clientele. The company operates entirely within Italy, reinforcing its commitment to the local market.

19. Bookswagon

• Website: bookswagon.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Delhi, Delhi, India
• Employee distribution: India 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bookswagon

Bookswagon, founded in 2013 and based in Delhi, India, is an online bookstore that specializes in offering a broad array of books across multiple genres, including fiction, parenting, health, and self-help. The company aims to provide individual consumers with easy access to books, allowing them to shop online and receive their purchases directly at home. With a workforce of around 51-200 employees, Bookswagon has established itself as a notable player in the Indian online book market. The company has not reported any funding, indicating it may be self-sustained or operating on a different financial model. Their website features various categories, including bestsellers and new arrivals, which enhances the shopping experience for users. Bookswagon's focus on customer convenience and a wide selection of titles positions it as a relevant option for book buyers in the mail order space.

20. Amazon

• Website: bookdepository.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 80%, Germany 20%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-book-depository

Amazon, operating through its Book Depository platform, is an online bookstore based in London, England. Founded in 2004, the company has established itself as a prominent source for a vast array of books, catering to consumers worldwide. Book Depository's mission is to improve access to literature by offering a wide selection of titles at competitive prices, often with free shipping options. The company has a significant presence in the book market, focusing on both physical books and digital formats, including Kindle editions. With a workforce of approximately 262 employees, Amazon continues to innovate in the book retail sector, enhancing the shopping experience for book lovers globally.

21. Biblio - Used & Rare Book Marketplace

• Website: biblio.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Asheville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Mexico 17%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: biblio

Biblio - Used & Rare Book Marketplace, founded in 2003 and based in Asheville, North Carolina, is an online platform dedicated to the sale of used, rare, and out-of-print books. The company connects customers with a network of independent booksellers, offering a vast selection of nearly 100 million titles. Biblio operates as a marketplace, allowing small businesses to thrive while providing unique literary finds for collectors and avid readers. The company emphasizes social responsibility, having used its profits to build public libraries in rural South America since 2004. Biblio also promotes carbon-neutral shipping, showcasing its commitment to environmental sustainability. With a focus on supporting independent bookstores, Biblio plays a significant role in the book industry, particularly for those seeking specialized and collectible works.

22. Estante Virtual

• Website: estantevirtual.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Centro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: estante-virtual

Estante Virtual, founded in 2005 and based in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is a private online bookstore that connects readers with a vast selection of new and used books across multiple genres. With a workforce of approximately 61 employees, the company plays a crucial role in promoting the culture of reading and supporting small bookstores and second-hand shops throughout Brazil. Estante Virtual not only offers a platform for consumers to purchase affordable literature but also emphasizes the importance of sustainability through its support of the circular economy. By facilitating access to a wide range of titles, including rare and hard-to-find books, Estante Virtual has established itself as a significant player in the Brazilian book market, catering to the needs of avid readers and casual book buyers alike.

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