Handsel or Hansel is an old Scottish word meaning a first gift or first sale. In this context something that is “Hanselled”, has been previously owned and in our case a second hand book. For over 20 years Hanselled Books has been serving readers online from our shop in the ancient Fife coastal town of Burntisland. We deal mainly in secondhand and difficult to find books. Our specialities are books relating to Scotland, history, military subjects and general antiquarian books.

Hanselled Books has a presence on all the major bookseller platforms, Amazon, A.B.E. books, Biblio and Alibris and we are a member of IOBA (International Online Booksellers Association), which ensures we stick to the highest possible standards of service. Our prices include postage within the UK. We have thousands of satisfied customers throughout the world and our pricing for overseas postage is extremely competitive. We are happy to accept returns and issue full refunds up to 30 days after receipt of purchase. We offer a free book location service for that difficult to find book and are happy to discuss any books you may wish to sell.
If planning to visit our shop please give us a phone first or check ouropening hours online especially during winter months.