How
often do we see the term "Good for its age" when looking at a books description?
Every time I see it, I shake my head and go to the next item. It
doesn't matter how old or how new the book is. If
it has any defects describe them thoroughly.
If you are going to engage in buying and selling books on eBay, or through
the mail, then the buyer and seller must recognize how very important it
is to accurately describe a book.
Antiquarian Bookman first put forth a set of terms that are still widely
used by bookpeople today. A brief (and I hope simple) explanation of these
terms are as follows:
1. AS NEW - A
book that is absolutely perfect in every respect. Looks like it just
came off the press. Dust jacket, if issued, must be in
the same condition.
2. FINE - Condition
is almost as good as "AS NEW", but not quite as sharp. No defects are allowed.
Dust jacket should be in like condition.
3. VERY GOOD -
The book can show some wear, but should have no tears of any kind. Any
defects such as minor soiling, should be noted. Dust jacket could
have a few very minor tears or chips and must be noted.
4. GOOD - The
book shows average wear and tear. All defects should be noted. Dust jacket
would show normal wear and tear. Jacket can have tears, chips, rubbing
or soiling but all problems should be noted.
5. FAIR - The
book is worn but has all pages, maps, or plates present. Can be missing
endpapers; half-title, etc. Dust jacket would show heavy wear with serious
defects. Once again, all defects should be noted.
6. POOR - The
book is in poor shape! Book and jacket have many defects. Most collectors
will purchase this condition as a reading copy or a filler until a better
copy can be found.
7. EX-LIB or
EX-LIBRARY
&
BCE or
BOOK
CLUB EDITION -
ANY ex-lib or book club
edition of a book must be identified as such, regardless of condition.
8. BINDING COPY -
Book has all pages, but the covers may be missing, detached, loose or very
worn.
NOTE: If a book was issued with a dust
jacket and it is missing then you must note this.
Personally, I always try to be very conservative in describing conditions.
You can use "+" or "-" in your descriptions when the condition is borderline
between say, good or very good. Conservative grading will save a lot of
problems with customers in the long run. Your idea of very good may be
only good in the buyers eyes!
Just remember a bookseller's reputation is their most important asset.
If you do make a mistake, and we all do at one time or another, then make
it right! If I've missed anything please feel free to email me, or post
it on the board.
My next lesson will try to explain the difference between 1st edition,
1st printing, 1st thus, and 1st issue. I will also cover some other major
book terms. If anyone has a specific term please email me and I will try
to include them.
This
Bookselling 101 lesson provided by John
& Don, Circle City Antiquarian Books NOTE:
Please do not email and ask us to grade your books.