Bologna and the surrounding areas abound with fancy and not-so-fancy furniture stores, so it shouldn't be too hard to find what you're looking for in the way of new furnishings for your home. Ask around or check in the phone book, white pages or yellow pages -  www.paginebianche.it - under the listing MOBILI.

Il Mercatino
This is a franchise. There are three stores in the Bologna area, and though they may appear related, the ownership is completely separate.
In addition to furniture there are also various odds and ends for the house.
In some stores there is even a used clothing department.

via Monterumici, 36/3
0039 051/313529
Near Ospedale Maggiore. 

via dei Caligari, 6
0039 051/320119
In the Corticella area.

via E. Mattei, 50/d
0039 051/6014028
In zona Roveri.

Padre Marella
via del Lavoro, 13
0039 051/244345
Just off via San Donato, this is one of the best bets for used furniture, but the rule of going back frequently definitely reigns. Owned and operated by a religious charitable organization, the store will, upon request, remove unwanted furniture from your house for free. If you look hard, there are some true beauties to be found at incredible prices, but dress down and be ready to use your best bargaining skills to get the real deals. There is also a well-stocked used clothing department. This store has unconventional business hours, and it's best to call ahead.

Il Mobile di Castel Maggiore
via Fabbri, 2
0039 051/700134
Located in Castel Maggiore, just outside the Bologna city limits, this store is easy to reach either by car or public transportation. By car, take via Corticella heading away from the city and follow the signs to Castel Maggiore. The store is about 15 minutes' drive outside of Piazza dell'Unita and it's almost impossible to miss. Don't be fooled by the large main store in front which sells new furniture. If you look behind the store, you'll see a warehouse with a small, but good selection of used furniture. Here too, business hours are unconventional. If you're looking for a particular piece of furniture, the owner may even be willing to telephone you when something matching your description comes in.