Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about how ShelfSwap works. If something is not covered, use the Contact page.
What is ShelfSwap?
A local book community: list books you are happy to pass on or swap, discover nearby listings, and chat with other readers after unlocking a listing.
Does browsing cost credits?
No. You can browse and search without spending credits.
What are credits for?
Credits are used when you request to unlock a listing so you can message the seller about that book. Sellers choose whether their listing costs 1 or 2 credits to unlock.
How do I get credits?
Signed-in users can buy credit packs through Stripe Checkout where enabled. In development, test grants may exist — never rely on those in production.
What happens when I request an unlock?
Your credits are helduntil the seller engages or the request expires. You can message as soon as you've requested — when the seller sends their first reply, that counts as accepting your request and your credits are charged. The seller can also decline to release your hold without messaging.
Can more than one buyer unlock the same listing?
A listing is oriented around a single conversation thread. When a seller accepts one buyer, other pending requests for that listing are typically declined so everyone stays aligned.
Do swaps count toward the seller reward?
No. The free credit every 5 completed deals counts passed on handoffs only (unlock for credits, not a swap). Swaps appear under Profile → Rehomed → Swaps and do not increase your reward counter.
How do credits work on swaps?
You pay the full unlock cost when your request is accepted. If you propose a swap and the seller accepts, your net unlock is the difference between their listing's credit value and your offered book's credit value (never below zero). Any extra credits you already paid are refunded to your balance. When both of you confirm handoff on a completed swap, both listings are archived.
Is there an in-app cash price for the physical book?
The app focuses on credits to unlock chat and arrange pickup or swap in person. Any agreement for the book itself happens between you and the other person outside the credit unlock.
Photos and condition
Sellers can add photos and describe condition. Always use your own judgment before meeting someone you do not know.
Location and distance
Set where your books are in Profile → App settings → Set Location (UK postcode). That area stays on your listings so buyers know where pickup happens. Home and Search use your current area automatically when location is allowed. We store only a rough area (~1 km) and show town or area on listings — never your postcode or full address.