Condition Guide
Last updated: January 2025
Every book in our inventory is inspected and assigned one of five condition grades by our trained operators. This guide explains what each grade means so you know exactly what to expect. Every listing also includes photographs of the actual copy and specific annotations for any notable wear.
As New
The book appears unread and is in perfect or near-perfect condition.
Qualifying Criteria
- No visible wear to covers, spine, or pages
- Pages are clean with no markings, annotations, or highlighting
- Spine is tight and uncreased
- Dust jacket (if applicable) is intact with no tears or fading
- No previous owner inscriptions or bookplates
Very Good
The book shows minimal signs of use but remains in excellent condition.
Qualifying Criteria
- Very minor shelf wear to covers or spine edges
- Pages are clean — no markings or highlighting
- Spine may show a slight crease but remains tight
- Dust jacket (if applicable) may have minimal edge wear
- Binding is fully intact and secure
Good
The book has been read and shows moderate wear but remains fully intact.
Qualifying Criteria
- Visible wear to covers, spine, and/or corners
- Pages may contain occasional light pencil markings or a previous owner name
- Spine may be creased but the binding holds firmly
- Dust jacket (if applicable) may have tears, creases, or edge wear
- All pages are present and text is fully readable
Acceptable
The book shows significant wear but is complete and readable.
Qualifying Criteria
- Noticeable wear and potential cosmetic damage to covers and spine
- Pages may contain highlighting, underlining, or marginal notes
- Spine may be creased or show stress marks
- Dust jacket may be missing or significantly worn
- May include library markings or stamps
- All pages present and text readable despite wear
Reading Copy
The book shows heavy wear but remains functional for reading.
Qualifying Criteria
- Significant wear, creasing, or damage to covers and spine
- Pages may have extensive markings, highlighting, or annotations
- Binding may be loose but pages remain attached
- May be missing dust jacket or have cosmetic damage
- May have water staining, discoloration, or foxing
- Offered at a significant discount reflecting the condition
- Complete and readable despite cosmetic issues
Additional Notes
- Condition annotations on listings specify any notable features beyond the general grade (e.g., "highlighting on pages 12–15" or "previous owner name on title page").
- Photographs show the actual copy you will receive — what you see is what you get.
- If you receive a book that doesn't match its listed condition, you're covered by our Buyer Protection Policy.