If you have shelves overflowing with books you’ve already read, or if you’re an author looking to get your work into readers’ hands, Nairobi offers plenty of opportunities to sell your used books and publish your own titles. From local bookstores to online platforms, here’s a complete guide.
Why Sell Your Used Books?
- Declutter your home or office
- Earn extra cash
- Give your books a second life
- Support a culture of reading and sustainability
Where to Sell Your Used Books in Nairobi
1. Attic Books Kenya
Attic Books is one of the most popular places to sell used books in Nairobi.
2. Nuria Store
Nuria Store supports African and Kenyan authors while also selling used and new books.
- How to sell: Create a vendor account, list your books, and manage your sales through their dashboard.
- Special feature: They actively promote African literature.
- Sell on Nuria
3. Kibanga Books
Kibanga Books specializes in new original hardcopy books but also accepts author submissions.
- How to sell: Submit your books for listing on their online store.
- Good for: Authors who want to reach readers interested in Kenyan and African literature.
- Learn More
4. Facebook Groups
Nairobi has active communities for book lovers, such as the Nairobi Second Hand Bookstore group.
- How to sell: Post clear pictures, prices, and book details.
- Pro tip: Include delivery or pick-up options to attract buyers faster.
5. Online Marketplaces
- Jumia – Large e-commerce platform in Kenya
- Jiji – Popular classifieds site
- OLX – General marketplace for second-hand goods
Popular Bookstores and Distributors in Kenya
- Nuria Bookstore – Nairobi, Kenya
- Kibanga Books – Nairobi, Kenya
- U.M. Gallery – The Waterfront, Karen, Nairobi
- AfriReads Bookshop – Eldoret, Kenya
- Ereto Bookshop – Nakuru, Kenya
- Hekaya Inscribers – Nairobi, Kenya
- Chojo Bookshop – Nairobi, Kenya
- African Books Collective – United Kingdom
- Hogarth Representation – London, UK
- The USA Library of Congress – Nairobi, Kenya
How to Publish Your Books in Kenya
1. Mystery Publishers
Specializing in African indie authors, they offer:
2. Self-Publishing Platforms
For eBooks, consider:
- Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) – Global reach for your digital books
- Google Play Books – Easy access to Android readers
- Kobo Writing Life – Popular in international markets
3. Local Publishing Houses
- Telios Press – Specializing in Christian and African literature
- Prestige Bookshop – Known for promoting both international and local titles
Tips for Selling and Publishing Books in Nairobi
- Know your audience – Fiction lovers? Academic readers? Target accordingly.
- Use social media – Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp are powerful tools for promotion.
- Take quality photos – Clear, well-lit images help sell books faster.
- Write compelling descriptions – Mention the genre, author, and book condition.
- Be responsive – Quick replies to inquiries increase trust and sales.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re decluttering your home library or sharing your own stories with the world, Nairobi offers multiple channels to sell your used books and publish new titles. With platforms like Attic Books, Nuria Store, and Kibanga Books, plus global eBook marketplaces, you can reach readers locally and internationally.
Savanis