formerly Quagga Books

Scale of Quality - About the Site - Ordering Info

Books: Scale of Quality

It is important that book descriptions are applied consistently; for that reason, Quagga Books 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.

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