Scan or type
Use a barcode scanner, a phone, or enter an ISBN manually.
Free for approved Empty Shelves partners
Book scanning software that finds the books we can sell.
Scan a barcode or enter an ISBN from a computer, tablet, or phone. Empty Shelves checks the book and returns a clear ACCEPT or REJECT result for the managed resale program.
No software subscription. We confirm that your organization, collection, and workflow are a fit before setting up access.
EMPTY SHELVESPartner scanner
Scan barcode or enter ISBNLOOK UP
✓
Book matchedSample accepted title
ACCEPT
✓No software subscription for approved partners
✓Prepaid inbound shipping for accepted books
✓Clear ACCEPT or REJECT sorting decisions
The scanner
Fast enough for a sorting table. Simple enough for volunteers.
The web-based workflow helps teams make consistent decisions without researching books one at a time.
Confirm the title
See the matched title so your team can verify the correct item.
Get a clear decision
Color-coded ACCEPT and REJECT results make sorting straightforward.
Use existing devices
Access the web-based scanner from a computer, tablet, or phone.
One connected workflow
From barcode to payout in four steps.
- 01
Scan your books
Scan each barcode or enter its ISBN to get the current resale decision.
- 02
Sort accepted books
Box books marked ACCEPT. Final qualification is subject to condition inspection after arrival.
- 03
Ship them prepaid
Empty Shelves provides prepaid labels and receives your accepted inventory.
- 04
Choose your payout
Select the current upfront or profit-sharing option that fits your organization.
Choose your return
Cash sooner or more potential over time.
With either current program option, Empty Shelves provides prepaid inbound shipping and handles the online sale.
Upfront model
$2per qualifying book after check-in
No ongoing commission. Best for organizations that prefer a faster, predictable payout.
Profit-share model
50%of net profits as books sell
Monthly reporting, with the potential for a higher overall return over time.
Program terms and book qualification are confirmed when your account is approved. Net-profit calculations follow your partner agreement.
Springfield Library · First year
A library result.
Springfield Library sent more than 1,000 books and selected the profit-share model.
One partner's historical result; individual results vary.- Books sold
- 597
- Gross sales
- $14,067
- Paid to library
- $4,772
01Can anyone create an account?
Accounts are set up for approved partners participating in the Empty Shelves resale service. Tell us your collection type, location, and approximate volume so we can confirm fit.
02Does the scanner appraise my books?
No. It returns an ACCEPT or REJECT decision based on whether Empty Shelves currently expects to resell the book profitably. It is not a consumer appraisal tool.
03What equipment do we need?
A connected computer, tablet, or phone. You can use a compatible barcode scanner or enter ISBNs manually.
04Are ex-library books accepted?
They can be, provided they meet current program and condition requirements. Books with water damage or extensive damage are not accepted.
05What happens to rejected books?
They stay with your organization to keep, sell locally, donate, recycle, or otherwise disposition.
06Is the software really free?
There is no software subscription for approved resale partners. The scanner is provided as part of the managed resale service and is not sold as standalone software.
Software + service
See what your shelves could earn.
Tell us your organization type, location, and approximate book volume. We'll review the fit and contact you about access or a demonstration.