Second-hand booksellers use several terms and abbreviations to describe the condition of a used book. I’ve prepared a guide to help you find the book that's right for you, and understand exactly what is being offered.

As New: The book is in pristine, original condition as when published. This grade may apply to older books that have been carefully stored, never shelved, thumbed, or opened.

Fine (F): A Fine book is nearly As New in condition but without being crisp. The book may have been opened and read, but shows no defects to the book, jacket, or pages

Very Good (VG): A book showing small signs of wear but no tears on either binding or paper. The book maintains its structural integrity.

Good (G): Describes a book with average wear while maintaining complete text pages. The book is intact and readable, but shows signs of use.

Fair: A worn book that has complete text pages (including those with maps or plates) but may lack endpapers, half-title, etc. (which must be noted).The binding and jacket (if any) may show significant wear,