AbeBooks Logo PNG
The AbeBooks logo embodies the wealth of knowledge, literary heritage, and accessibility of rare and valuable books. The emblem’s design creates a sense that this is the place to find books that are difficult to discover elsewhere, emphasizing the brand’s role as a reliable resource for bibliophiles and literature lovers worldwide.
AbeBooks: Brand overview
AbeBooks came into being in 1995 as the brainchild of Rick and Vivian Poore and Keith and Kathy Waters. The company originated with the Poore family in Victoria, British Columbia, and was founded on the challenge of finding inexpensive college textbooks. After realizing that a niche was vacant, they envisioned a digital hub bridging the gap between sellers and lovers of used, old-fashioned, or hard-to-find books.
The following year, 1996, the AbeBooks.com platform was launched, opening the door for booksellers from around the world to showcase their collections to an international audience. Initially, the platform focused exclusively on the sale of unique, used, and rare books. As the number of sellers grew and convenient features such as wishlists and notifications became available, AbeBooks steadily grew in popularity.
By the turn of the millennium, there were more than 1,350 international booksellers on the platform. This growth trajectory led the company to acquire BookFinder.com in 2000 and enter Europe. Just two years later, in 2002, the company’s European presence was expanded with the acquisition of Germany’s JustBooks. By 2004, 13,500 booksellers had made AbeBooks their online haven.
A major milestone for the company came in 2008 when e-commerce giant Amazon acquired AbeBooks for $45 million. In doing so, the company maintained its independence. AbeBooks benefits from Amazon’s technological prowess and wide customer network. AbeBooks is a giant in its field and boasts a diverse collection of more than 120 million items, including books, art, and collectibles, offered by sellers in more than 50 countries.
Meaning and History
What is AbeBooks?
AbeBooks is a favorite digital paradise for book lovers, collectors, and art connoisseurs! Created in 1995 by founders Rick and Vivian Poore and Keith and Kathy Waters, it has grown into a well-known international marketplace. With seven diverse websites, AbeBooks caters to a variety of interests and needs, serving shoppers around the world. AbeBooks is headquartered in the impressive city of Victoria, British Columbia. This company has gained worldwide recognition by bridging the gap between book, art, and collectibles lovers around the world.
2006 – today
The AbeBooks logo combines symbolism and functionality, highlighting the company’s mission to make books accessible to everyone. The emblem consists of two main elements: a bird symbol representing an open book and the company name presented as a web link. The central symbol—a book “flying” around the world—symbolizes knowledge traveling across the globe.
The bird with outstretched wings, resembling the pages of a book, embodies the freedom of thought and access to information. The endpapers and the pages’ main section are visible, making the book easily recognizable. The bird’s head and body represent the book’s spine, while the tail, shaped like a bookmark, adds an interesting detail as if reminding you to pick up where you left off next time.
The text “AbeBooks.com” below the symbol complements the logo’s overall style. The font is smooth and rounded, giving the text a sense of lightness and ease. The bird’s red color adds dynamism and energy, creating a sense of movement and forward momentum.
This visual mark perfectly reflects the company’s goals: helping readers worldwide discover new worlds through books, regardless of location. The symbol suggests that the company will deliver books right to you, wherever you are.
FAQ
Does AbeBooks still exist?
AbeBooks continues to operate as an online marketplace for books, art, and unique items. The company was acquired by Amazon.com, Inc. in December 2008 and is headquartered in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, with an additional office in Munich, Germany. The company has a global reach and operates through various international sites.
How does AbeBooks work?
AbeBooks is an international e-commerce platform that connects sellers and buyers. Books, art, and unique collectibles from around the world can be purchased on this marketplace.
Is AbeBooks owned by Amazon?
AbeBooks has been part of Amazon’s portfolio since 2008. The platform operates seven international sites and connects buyers with sellers in more than 50 countries. It has built its reputation on offering used, rare, and out-of-print books.
Can AbeBooks be trusted?
Indeed, AbeBooks has established itself as a legitimate source for acquiring out-of-print books, rare items, and artwork. Despite the safety and widespread use of the platform, buyers should remain cautious as the site is used by individual sellers, and there is always a risk of encountering fraud.