Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales was founded in the late 1980s by Eliot Glassheim, an instructor of American Literature, accomplished statesman, and renowned community advocate.

Originating in the heart of downtown Grand Forks, Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales began as an acquired collection of books following the eviction of a previous business tenant. Recognizing an opportunity, Dr. Eliot struck a deal with the owner to split the cost of all sales for a month in exchange for the merchandise.

Aided by friends and students, Dr. Eliot moved the items to a new location and began selling used books to neighbors around the community. Intending to be in business for mere weeks, Dr. Eliot quickly realized his expanded passion for literature and made the bookstore a cornerstone of downtown Grand Forks.

Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales has evolved and relocated over the years, ultimately becoming a marketplace for gifts, book-inspired crafts, and used novels, in addition to historical first editions, rare titles, academic, foreign, religious, and other specialty collections.

Devastated by flood in 1997 and fire in the 2000s, Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales has faced tragedy and triumph over the decades. Many of the books in Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales have a journey as rich as the bookstore itself.

Each book has it’s own story — and the tales extend beyond the words printed between the covers. Heirlooms are passed from generation to generation. Specialty books are archived for future generations. Yet too many books are discarded after once-read.

Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales believes in giving all titles a second chance to enrich the life a new reader.

Whether you’re looking for a book for yourself, a book-inspired gift for a loved one, Dr. Eliot’s Twice Sold Tales is here to help you write a new chapter for used books.