AbeBooks is an international online marketplace connecting buyers with independent booksellers around the world, offering new, used, rare and out-of-print books as well as collectibles. Founded in Canada and now part of the Amazon group, it serves bibliophiles and collectors globally.
Ques 1: What does AbeBooks offer?
Ans: AbeBooks provides access to millions of books listed by thousands of independent booksellers worldwide, including new, used, rare, signed, out-of-print editions and collectibles.
Ques 2: Can I buy books from AbeBooks globally and is it suitable for rare/collectible items?
Ans: Yes — AbeBooks facilitates global buying; it is particularly known for rare and collectible books (first editions, signed copies, out-of-print books) from specialist sellers.
Ques 3: Where is AbeBooks based and when was it founded?
Ans: The company was founded in 1995, launched in 1996, and is headquartered in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, with a European office in Düsseldorf, Germany. It became a subsidiary of Amazon in 2008.
Ques 4: Are there any concerns or user-reviews about AbeBooks’ service?
Ans: While many users find unique titles and good value, some reviews raise concerns about shipping costs, condition descriptions of used books, delivery delays or seller responsiveness.
Ques 5: How can I be sure the books I buy from AbeBooks are reliable and in good condition?
Ans: Because AbeBooks is a marketplace of many independent sellers rather than a direct-inventory retailer, it’s advisable to carefully check the seller’s ratings, condition descriptions, shipping terms, return policy and consider international shipping costs where applicable.