SmallBizGenius Analysis
Alibris is an online marketplace specializing in new and used books, CDs, and movies. Customers generally praise Alibris for its wide selection, competitive pricing, and the quality of the books they receive.
Category Breakdown
Scores based on analysis of 296 recent reviews
Product Condition
8.5/10Many reviewers express satisfaction with the condition of the books they receive, often stating that the books are in excellent or like-new condition, even when purchased used. Several reviews specifically mention that the condition matched or exceeded their expectations based on the description provided.
52 reviews mention thisPricing & Value
8.0/10Reviewers frequently highlight the reasonable prices offered on Alibris, especially compared to buying new books or using other online retailers. Many appreciate the ability to find books at affordable prices and consider it a great value for their money.
40 reviews mention thisShipping & Delivery
7.0/10While many reviewers are pleased with the speed and efficiency of shipping, some report delays or longer-than-expected delivery times. A few reviewers also mention high shipping costs, particularly for international orders.
35 reviews mention thisSelection & Availability
9.0/10A significant number of reviewers praise Alibris for its wide selection of books, including hard-to-find, rare, and out-of-print titles. Customers appreciate the ability to find specific books they've been searching for.
25 reviews mention thisCustomer Service
7.0/10Customer service experiences are mixed, with some reviewers praising the quick and helpful responses they received, while others report delays in communication or difficulty resolving issues. Some reviewers noted a lack of initial order confirmation.
10 reviews mention thisPros & Cons
What Customers Love
"The book was used but in excellent condition."
"Easy and quick ordering of even hard to find books."
"Price was very fair."
"Purchasing the book was a quick and easy process."
"Reasonable prices and the chance to support smaller book sellers all over the country - and beyond!"
Common Complaints
"Although the item originated on the east coast and took a bit of time to make it to my front door..."
"The books are new and beautiful, but I ended up paying almost $5. for each (though they were offered @ .99) because the shipping was $44+ 😱 which I'm sure it's excessive!"
"The book was not at all as described. The cover was in pieces inside the book."
"I am writing regarding the cancellation of my order #761373XX-1 for the book "Roster of the Loyalists in the Battle of Kings Mountain.""
"I didn’t receive any confirmation from you that my order went through until I contacted you days later."
Common Questions About Alibris
Answers derived from customer review patterns
Is Alibris legit and trustworthy?
Yes, Alibris appears to be a legitimate and trustworthy online marketplace for books and media. The vast majority of reviews are positive, highlighting satisfactory experiences with product quality, pricing, and delivery. While some customers have reported issues with shipping delays or inaccurate descriptions, these appear to be isolated incidents rather than systemic problems. Alibris has been in business for many years and has a large customer base, further supporting its legitimacy.
Based on 45 reviewsDoes Alibris have good customer service?
Customer service experiences with Alibris appear to be mixed. Some reviewers praise the quick and helpful responses they received when contacting customer support, while others report delays in communication or difficulty resolving issues. It seems that the quality of customer service may vary depending on the specific issue and the individual representative involved. However, Alibris does offer a customer service channel to address concerns and resolve problems.
Based on 10 reviewsIs Alibris worth it for small business?
Alibris can be a worthwhile resource for small businesses, particularly those seeking affordable books and media. The platform's wide selection and competitive pricing make it a valuable option for sourcing materials for research, education, or resale. However, small business owners should carefully review seller ratings and shipping options to ensure a smooth transaction and avoid potential issues with delays or inaccurate descriptions. Considering both the positive reviews and the potential drawbacks, Alibris can be a beneficial tool with careful consideration.
Based on 25 reviewsWhat is Alibris's return policy like?
The reviews do not provide specific details regarding Alibris's general return policy. It's important to note that since Alibris is a marketplace, return policies may vary depending on the individual seller. Customers should carefully review the seller's return policy before making a purchase. If there are issues with the order, customers should contact Alibris customer service to seek assistance.
Based on 0 reviewsHow accurate are Alibris's book condition descriptions?
The accuracy of book condition descriptions on Alibris can vary. While many reviewers report that the books they received were in the condition described, others have experienced discrepancies. Some customers have received books with more wear and tear than expected, or with markings not mentioned in the description. It's advisable to carefully review the seller's rating and any available photos before making a purchase to minimize the risk of receiving a book in unsatisfactory condition.
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