FAQ's

Books are graded in the following way: Fine : This is the top grade of condition, meaning that the book will be almost as new. Near fine: An excellent copy, perhaps with some minor imperfection, which will be listed. Very Good : An attractive copy, which is obviously second hand and may show some light signs of wear, though nothing major. Good : this book selling term is something of a misnomer and actually means that although the book is usable and complete it is not in very good condition. As each of our books is carefully collated, we aim to list any major defect. You can rest assured that unless we mention it all of our books will have all their pages and illustrations.

This is the first printing of a book. Occasionally there are changes to a book during the initial print run and these may be referred to as later issues or states. However, any book which is a later printing is not a first edition.

To order your book simply click the "Add to bag" button displayed below the product information. To Check out / pay go to My Bag, found in the top right hand corner of the screen. You can now choose whether to register an account, this will enable you to see previous purchases, track orders on line and store your delivery information, or checkout without registering. If you choose to register you will receive an email asking you to activate your account (check spam folders if this doesn't appear) You will need to click the link to activate your account. If you have any queries we are always very happy to help so call us on 01491 576427.

Stand your book on a shelf, ideally with other books or book ends to keep it upright. Avoid damp atmospheres, too much heat and direct sunlight. Do open your books from time to time to avoid discolouration of the paper and by all means read them, but not in the bath!

Absolutely. There is nothing like handling a book and everything can be viewed in our shop in Henley on Thames. We would love to see you.

There is no need to wear white gloves. Dexterity is reduced by gloves and can lead to pages becoming damaged, so ensure you have clean, dry hands and avoid the use of hand creams immediately before handling your book.

Our shop is open from 10.00 - 17.30 from Monday to Saturday. Closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

We send parcels containing rare and fragile books around the world on a daily basis and always pack them with great care, using sturdy boxes, bubble wrap and polystyrene chips as appropriate. We have experienced only occasional problems and customers are constantly complimenting us on our packing and service. Just occasionally things do go wrong and to cover this all our stock is fully insured during transit.

Yes. All of our books are covered with a chemically inert plastic covering which protects them from wear and tear.

Yes. We are always keen to acquire interesting new items for our stock. We are happy to buy just one special volume or an entire collection or library. To find out more see our selling books page

We don't have a list as it would be far too long. Here are a few of the things we are always seeking: 1. MODERN FIRST EDITIONS, 1890 - present day. First editions of collectible literature, in original dustwrapper. Authors we are keenly seeking include: Graham Greene, George Orwell, Evelyn Waugh, Ian Fleming, Agatha Christie and P.G. Wodehouse. 2. FIRST EDITIONS OF CHILDREN'S LITERATURE, including Enid Blyton, Lewis Carroll, C.S. Lewis, A.A. Milne and Roald Dahl 3. EARLIER LITERATURE, including Shakespeare Folios and Quartos, Chaucer, Dickens, Austen, Bronte etc. First or significant editions in original condition. 4. ANY IMPORTANT MANUSCRIPT OR LITERARY ARTEFACT - including related items such as author's typewriters. 5. FIRST EDITIONS OF IMPORTANT BOOKS ON MOST SUBJECTS; Adam Smith; Newton; Shackleton; T.E. Lawrence; Winston Churchill, Keynes 6. TRAVEL AND TOPOGRAPHY, Thames books; A & C Black colour books, Mountaineering; Polar Exploration; Voyages 7. SPORTING BOOKS, especially cricket, golf, rowing and tennis. 8. FINE ILLUSTRATED BOOKS, artists such as Rackham, Dulac, Nielsen, Goble, Russell Flint etc. Books need to be in virtually perfect condition. 9. PRIVATE PRESS BOOKS, Gregynog, Kelmscott, Ashendene 10. BOOKS ON WINE OR GASTRONOMY e.g. Andre Simon, Mrs Beeton, Elizabeth David

In order to answer this we need to see your book. The value will depend on a range of factors, such as the edition, binding, condition and, of course, desirability. Please see our sections on valuations and selling books for more detailed information. Unfortunately, we are unable to give valuations by email or telephone.