One thing is for certain: The thrift store is always full of surprises, and the book section is no exception. Sure, you’ll likely find outdated renditions of magazines (looking at you, TV Guide from 1997) and books with the cover completely torn off, but if you look closely, you’ll also find some real gems.

With such a large selection, it can be difficult to know what’s worth picking up. Luckily, we consulted with two experts for advice, who revealed the four types of books that are always worth grabbing—and why.

Meet the Expert: Shannon Barker, co-founder of Bessette, an online vintage shop

Vintage Cookbooks

If you've ever flipped through a midcentury cookbook, you know just how charming the illustrations and recipes can be. 

"Vintage cookbooks are consistently collectible, not just for the recipes but for the way they capture moments in time," says Barker. "I love getting a peek at how people cooked, hosted, and entertained across different eras and cultures."

High-Quality Editions

Not every valuable book has to be rare. Sometimes, the craftsmanship of the book makes it worth keeping (especially if you’re looking for things that’ll look good on your shelf). "Linen covers, embossed spines, thick paper, and sewn bindings are all good signs of quality printing," Barker explains. "I also look for first editions, original dust jackets, or special publisher markings—small details that often turn a beautiful old book into a collectible one."

Art Books

Finally, don’t skip out on art or photography books. "Out-of-print art and photography books, and anything with a strong visual element tend to hold their appeal," Barker says. The rich images, quality paper, and eye-catching covers make them great candidates for coffee table books (and you don’t have to spend an arm and a leg for them).