I turned down a members RC because she stated that she wanted paperbacks only---no softcovers or hardcovers.

Is there a difference between paperbacks and softcovers?

I didn't think there was a difference. The only thing I could think of is maybe she means she doesn't want the paperbacks that have a thicker cover. The ones where the cover is more plastic than paper and sticks out further than the pages of the book. But yeah, I would have turned it down too cause I'm not sure that's what she means.

That is so bizarre! To me they mean exactly the same.

The only thing I can think of is by paperback the member means mass-market paperbacks and softcovers would be the trade size. I would have declined, too.

To me, those two descriptions were always synonymous.

We can only guess what she means -  would turn it down.

I am with Janelle -I would think mass paperback = paperback and softcover = trade size.  Many people have problems holding the larger books so they only request paperbacks.  Just guessing this is the reason.

Technically softcover = any paperback or other non-hard cover (sometimes they bind books in odd substances -- I've seen one bound in human skin) except "cloth", which always refers to hardcovers, regardless of size, so someone needs to clarify their RCs.

Clear as mud? :-)

Cheers,
Catt

Well I immediately thought softcover = tradesize. But that word also describes an mmp. So I would have turned it down as well and put sometihng like "a mass market has a soft cover and this person needs to clarify their conditions". 

Softcovers are sturdier than regular paperbacks.  There is frequently  canvas (or other strong material) encased in (or laminiated to) the paper cover.  Although these are often similar to tradesize (or middle size), the cover is a different fabric.  At the UBS I've seen the hardcover Eragon shelved beside a softcover edition, and a paperback edition.  These are often used as library or school editions.