Books: A Scale of Quality
It is important that book descriptions are applied consistently; for that reason, Ouble Books & Magazines uses this Scale of Quality, loosely based on standards widely accepted across the industry.
As New - The book is in the same immaculate condition in which it was published. There are no defects, no missing pages, no library stamps, etc., and the dustjacket (if issued with one) is perfect, without tears.
Fine - Approaches "As New", but without being crisp. There are no defects, etc.; if the jacket has any defect, this is noted.
Very Good - A used book showing some small signs of wear - but no tears - on either binding or paper. Defects are noted.
Good - Describes the average used and worn book that has all pages or leaves present. Any defects are noted.
Fair - A worn book that has complete text pages (including maps or plates) but may lack endpapers, half-title, etc. Binding, jacket (if any), etc. may be worn. Any specific defects are noted.
Poor - So tatty that its only merit is as a reading copy because it does have complete, legible text. Missing maps or plates are noted. Copy may be soiled, scuffed, stained or spotted and may have loose joints, hinges, pages, etc.
Ex-library - Always noted, whatever the condition.
Book Club - Always noted, whatever the condition.
Dustjacket - Lack of dustjacket is noted if the book was issued with one.
*Standards first applied by AB Bookman's Weekly, 1949
Biography - eclectic selection of biograhy and autobiography
Fiction including many first editions at competitive prices.
Healthcare - Selection of nursing, medicine and sociological tomes, including some classics
Humour - TV-linked books, 'humourous' novels.Plus 'annual editions' and more.
Nature - The Environment and the Natural World; a selection of books on zoos, wildlife, human behaviour
Pubs and Brewing and Brewiana - a selection of rare and unusual books and booklets.
Thought - From Marx to the Bible, a selection of quality books on politics, philosophy and religion.
Miscellany - You name it!
Private Eye - UK's Books
Biography Fiction Humour Pubs & Beer Healthcare Miscellany Nature Thought
29 March 2021
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