Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Provenance • Bibliographic Description • Colophon

Very Good

Term from Rare Book Dealing industry explained for recruiters

In rare book dealing, "Very Good" is a standardized condition rating term used to describe the state of preservation of books and manuscripts. It's the third-highest condition rating below "Fine" and "Near Fine." When a book is described as "Very Good," it means the item shows some minor wear but remains attractive and sound, with no major defects. This term is part of a universal grading system used by professional book dealers to communicate condition consistently to buyers and other dealers.

Examples in Resumes

Accurately graded over 1,000 antiquarian books using standard condition ratings from Very Good to Poor

Maintained detailed inventory records documenting Very Good and better condition items

Specialized in restoration of damaged volumes to achieve Very Good or higher condition status

Typical job title: "Rare Book Dealers"

Also try searching for:

Antiquarian Bookseller Book Appraiser Rare Book Specialist Antiquarian Book Dealer Book Conservator Rare Book Cataloger

Where to Find Rare Book Dealers

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you determine if a book's condition should be rated as Very Good versus Near Fine?

Expected Answer: A senior dealer should explain specific criteria like minimal wear to binding, clean pages with no markings, and how minor flaws impact grading. They should also discuss how market standards and collector expectations influence condition ratings.

Q: How would you handle a dispute over a Very Good condition rating with a customer?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of detailed condition documentation, professional communication skills, and industry standards for condition grading. Should explain their process for resolving disputes while maintaining customer relationships.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors would cause you to downgrade a book from Very Good to Good condition?

Expected Answer: Should be able to list specific condition issues like worn corners, minor spine damage, light spotting on pages, and explain how these impact book value and marketability.

Q: How do you document Very Good condition in a book listing?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for noting specific condition details, describing any minor flaws, and using standard terminology that other dealers and collectors will understand.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic characteristics of a Very Good condition book?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the basic signs of a Very Good book: complete, clean, with only minor wear, no major defects, and generally appealing appearance despite some age-appropriate wear.

Q: Why is consistent condition grading important in rare book dealing?

Expected Answer: Should understand that accurate grading builds trust with customers, enables fair pricing, and maintains professional standards in the trade.