OK, my story is different.
First, there are no thrift stores in my corner of the world.
So, why am I here in this thread ?

Well, I did one time get something of great value while visiting our charity office. They usually take anything in whatever condition. They sell the stuff to recycling companies and the money is spent on charity purposes.

So, one day I was donating stuff (paper, plastic ..etc.) and saw a few boxes full of books. After closely examining one box, I went to office and offered them (the equivalent of) $30 for that box, which they accepted. It was full of medical books and safety manuals. I took the box home to my daughter who is a doctor. She was extremely happy.