Often customers will either pay a preimum for "new" books
or just grab whatever copy is offered at the lowest price irrespective
of condition. However when examining books, there will often be barely
perceptiable flaws such as a scratch on the rear or a chip on the
corner of a cover. This is particularly true of paperback books as
they might get bumped on a shelf in a store or while being shipped
halfway around the country. On Alibris they are often listed as being
in "Like New" or "Fine" condition and grouped with
used books although they may have never been read.
These books are sometimes overlooked and can offer an excellent
value. Many times for a fraction of the price you can get a volume
that could pass for new on a store shelf. If you appreciate new items
but looking to remain thrifty in uncretain economic times, why not
consider "Like New" books as well?
Another often overlooked book is the hardcover book without a dust
jacket. True, the additional weight can incur about 80 cents in
shipping costs over a paperback. However, these books are often in
pristine condition aside from the missing jacket. By rule here on
Alibris, they may be listed as being only in "fair"
condition, and are often priced as such. This means they often provide
a good value for reading purposes, unless the paperback editions sell
for the cost of shipping. When bargain hunting, you might do well take
a quick look at the hardcover listings.
