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The overall reputation of Better World Books is mixed, with notable strengths in their extensive selection and competitive pricing, often praised for delivering books in excellent condition. However, significant concerns arise regarding customer service, particularly related to shipping delays, fulfillment errors, and inadequate packaging that often leads to damaged items. Many customers express frustration over the return process and a perceived lack of responsiveness from the company. While some customers remain loyal due to the ethical practices and commitment to literacy, recurring issues with order accuracy and support hinder a consistently positive experience.
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Thank you for the book! I've ordered it in March, but I have received it only in May because of COVID. I hope the book will be very interesting!
A 100% customer-centric small business that's actually still a small business, and who actually cares about its employees and the world it thrives in. The books and shipping end up being cheaper overall (that's right - even with Prime!), and the entire experience, including customer, service is warm and personable. Cherry on top: you can typically find older editions of hardcover, trade, and mass market editions - still in great condition! Highly recommended.
My beloved new/used book, Fastest Things on Wings: Rescuing Hummingbirds in Hollywood arrived within a few days after ordering in perfect condition... I think the listing said "very good" it could pass for new:-)
And as a teacher I really feel good about being able to support a business that helps fund literacy programs!
Three books (purchased 8th March 2021) received promptly. All in good condition. This is one of the companies I use regularly and the service is excellent. Thank you. David G. Mills. Hull, East Yorkshire, England. NB. I lack the computer skills to upload proof of purchase. Better World Books will confirm if contacted.
Ordered a book - as it indicated it was LARGE print. I received a regular print. They responded quickly and here is their reply: "I am sorry that the item did not arrive in the format that you were expecting. Unfortunately, it was not listed accurately. We realize that this was not your mistake, however, I am afraid we cannot exchange it. I have gone ahead and issued you a full refund for this item. Your account should be credited within the next few business days. There is no need to return it to us. You may enjoy it yourself, or you may wish to donate it to a local organization in need. We hope you can recycle it otherwise. Again I'm very sorry about this error. Please be sure to let us know if you have any additional questions or concerns."
When I called customer service - they indicated same and that they did not have a Large Print that I could order. I will give them another try. Everyone deserves a second chance. But they NEED to list their offerings accurately.
I was interested in a book mentioned by an online friend, and bought a hardcover copy from Better World books cheaper than Kindle.
The service from BWB is amazing as always. My sons and I look forward to our shipment each time! TY!
Got exactly what I wanted, postage cheaper than a similar book sent from here and a very funny message
I switched from purchasing books on amazon to betterworld books because I want to make a better impact on the environment, and love being able to buy used books easily. I really appreciate that this company does the carbon offset and also donates books!
Very easy order process and quick delivery. And I would definitely consider them again when looking for books.
Would rather buy used books anyway; this site lets me do that little bit of good for the environment, and it also donates books, in addition to having great prices, selection, and shipping. Well done so far, no issues.
Thought it was too good to be true, but the site was easy to use, the delivery was quick (even in a pandemic?!), and the books are great quality. Already planning my next order!
I always find what I am looking for. I love the economical pricing. My books arrive in an extremely timely fashion. I am always updated about the arrival of the books. This is my third time and I am very happy.
Great site with lots of selection. I received my new books very quickly, while the used books came shortly after. Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is that it keeps the out of stock books showing in the available list.
Better World Books has some great books that are harder to find for good prices. I just wish they would tell you if something was ex-library. I am trying to finish a series in a certain cover style. I don't want ex-library copies, but there is no way to know what you are getting.
There's a reason this company is called, Better Books. They are better than that big online seller because they actually care. Not only was my order handled smoothly, but they followed up with a clever shipping notice the following day. Love their wit and the timely mannerly with which I received my books.
They also reward points for your purchases, or referrals, and offer discounts ranging from 15% - 30% depending on the number of books you buy from the Bargain Bin. Best of all, they accept books for donation at drop boxes and give back to others in grants, special projects, and literacy partners such as books for Africa. Love these guys!
I ordered a book for a friends bday and was emailed saying it would arrive in 9 days (his bday was 14 days away) After around day 12 I emailed asking where it was. They emailed me two days later saying they're giving me a refund. I'll never use this site again.
I love that I can save money buying my books used and help a good cause. Love the humorous emails too.
Answer: You can probably, maybe able to see them on line somewhere, on an American government site for universities as they are out of the University of Indiana... that's my guess anyway.
Answer: I have only ever had one order go astray and they refunded the purchase as soon as I reported it If you still haven't received your order you should notify them. They will probably refund your purchase as it may have been lost.
Answer: It's a non-profit run by volunteers at several sites around the U.S. Many of their books are from public libraries & in good condition often. They also get donations from the public & some of those are in only Fair or Good condition, though lots are in Very Good/Like New or New condition. My favorite thing about BWB is their free book donations to very poor countries! I've bought from BWB for over 4 years & have bought close to a 100 books. Great non-profit!
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