In my case, the same error message was caused by having (2) "phantom" address books which appeared only when opening the address book or adding a contact (never in the "mail" or "folders" views). One of the "phantom" books would open anyway (with nothing inside), and I could still change to a "genuine" address book: annoying, but not a "fatal" error.

The repair (for me) was to open any address book, click the 'Tools' menu, then click 'Options...'.

Next, set the (2) drop-down menus however you prefer, and in the large pane at the bottom, highlight each "phantom" one at a time and click the "Remove" button for each.

When you've removed all of the "phantoms", click the "Apply" button, then "OK".

Microsoft, in their Infinite Windows*, would have you delete all your address books and start over, like curing a toothache by decapitating the patient.

I hope this helps someone.
ShrekNJ
*pun intended