This might have been asked before but I couldn't find it by searching so I figured I'd ask.  I saw the part about no staining... but i have some quite old books that have discolorations on the covers, no water damage or anything that I can tell, just the color has spots of a different color on it.  Plus I have some books that viewed on the sides, you can see discolorations on the on the pages when put together (I think one has it barely on the pages when you actually open the book and read it).  Otherwise the books are quite fine, nothing wrinkled or anything (I'm not even sure they are water stains as I can't see or remember how they would've got water on them but you never know).  Does that count as staining or are they talking about severe water damage and the pages being totally discolored (unreadable or close to)?  Thanks!

Doug

I would have to say it's your call.  If the staining you're talking about is from yellowing pages, then it's ok.  If it's from anything else, then it's not.  You're the only one who can decide which it is and if it's good enough to post.  If you're having a tough time deciding, think about if you would be ok with the condition of the book if you spent a credit on it...

 I have posted a couple of books with some damage of one kind or another. Just today, I listed a book that a puppy tore the corners off on the cover.  It showed up as being on someone's wishlist, so I PM'ed that person, and told them about the damage, and asked them if they wanted the book anyway. In each case that I have listed a damaged book, the person wanted it anyway, and  thanked me for being honest.

  I have never, however, listed a book that had pages falling out, or was so damaged it had mold or was unreadable in anyway.

 Use your good judgement. Would you want to hold that book in your hands while you were eating popcorn? Will it stay together long enough to be read and then possibly bring joy to others?

If you think the book is ok, do what I do, and let anyone who wants it know honestly what condition it is in before the deal is sealed.

Ann-Marie (cookieknits)

I have a lot of old paperbacks.  I post them if they have the yellowing but I send a pm before I mail the book out.  I think the main thing w/stains is that it not be water marks or food/beverage stains.  But natural aging of the paper is ok. As long as the book is still readable and not falling apart.  Some of the really yellowed ones I've offered as freebies.

 I have posted a couple of books with some damage of one kind or another

Per PBS rules, damaged books should not  be posted. It is that kind of thing  that causes problems and hard feelings. Please don't post unpostable books and then pm people. Damaged books simply cannot be posted here.

Some people put signatures on thier posts (like me) who tell you if you have any of thier wish list books in any condition to let them know. That would be the only time I would post something that was damaged or unpostable.

Unpostable books should always be posted in the Book Bazaar - even if you offer it for free with another order from yourshelf! PBS has those guidelines to keep swapping happy and appropriate.