This is a guide to how we describe our second-hand books.

All defects should be noted. However, if you have specific questions about books, such as their exact binding, or dimensions, don't hesitate to ask.

Fine (F):  Approaches the condition of a new book.  The book may have been opened and read, but there are no defects to the book, jacket or pages. 

Near Fine (NF):  Somewhere between Very Good and Fine, with any minor defects noted.

Very Good (VG): Describes a book that shows some small signs of wear - but no tears - on either binding or paper. 

Good (G): Describes the average used worn book that has all pages or leaves present.

Reading Copy: A copy usually in poor to fair condition that includes all text presented in a legible fashion.  The copy is fine to read but nothing more. Examples include:

• Fair: Worn book that has complete text pages (including those with maps or plates) but may lack endpapers, half-title, etc. (which must be noted). Binding, jacket (if any), etc., may also be worn. 
• Poor: Describes a book that is even more worn and may lack endpapers etc.
• Ex-Library: Ex-library books are notable because they have been defaced by librarians.

Addendum:

A book with a dustjacket will be described with separate designations for book and dust jacket, as in F/VG, where F (Fine) is the condition of the book itself, and VG (Very Good) is the condition of the dust jacket.

Abbreviations and terminology

DJ or d/j - dust jacket

FEP - front end-paper

PO - Previous Owner