Half price book sale in Canoga Park

A&M Book Cellars is having their semi-annual half-price book sale Sunday, Jan. 11 through Saturday, Jan. 17. All the books in the store - except the $.25 bargain room - are half price, including audio books. Sale pricing makes brand new paperbacks that sell for $5 just $2.50.

The only wrinkle is that during the sale customers using their store credit (A&M accepts trade-ins) pay the regular price, not the sale price, says owner Alice.

"The amount of credit we give is based on the idea that we are going to sell the book at full price," Alice said. Seems fair enough. Customers can, however, bring in books during sale to trade-in and use the credit after the sale.

A&M gives credit on a sliding scale based on how well they think the books will sell. Typical rates are $.05 for a book that will sell in the bargain room and up to 30 percent of the cover price for hot sellers.

Hours during the sale are Sunday 1-6 pm and Monday through Saturday 10-7. Sunday, Jan. 18 the store is closed so the staff can recover.

Visit them at 19801 Vanowen Street, Unit F. The store is at the back of a small strip mall just west of Marshalls and Vallarta. They accept cash, checks, credit cards and debit cards. Call (818) 716-6259 with questions.

Thanks to reader Lori who sent me this tip! Thanks to Alice and Marty for details!