Campus bookstores are a college mainstay and they are generally a student's first stop to purchase textbooks. The bookstores are beneficial due to their proximity to students and because they stock an abundance of new and used editions of the required text. Most college campuses are home to official and independent bookstores. If your campus has multiple bookstores, shop around to compare prices. Campus bookstores tend to be more expensive; therefore, it is recommended that you check other retail outlets before making your purchase.
The Internet is home to dozens of college textbook retailers with extensive inventories. Websites such as Campusbooks.com, Half.com, Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com sell new and used textbooks at prices that are often cheaper than campus bookstores. In addition to the reduced cost, online retailers are convenient because they take the legwork out of going to buy college textbooks. Many online retailers also sell eco-friendly eTextbooks, which are digital downloads of physical textbooks. The eTextbooks contain all of the information and illustrations found in the original text and are generally 50 to 60 percent cheaper. Additionally, eTextbooks are easier to transport since they can be stored on computers and lightweight digital readers. Auction websites such as Ebay.com also sell college textbooks. Since auctions are subject to bidding, you may be able to find your desired text at a reduced priced.
Most college campuses host textbook trading fairs throughout the school year. The fairs give students the opportunity to buy, sell or trade their textbooks, while interacting with each other in a festive atmosphere. Campus bulletin boards offer an additional way to purchase textbooks. At the beginning and end of each semester, bulletin boards are rife with ads placed by students looking to sell their textbooks. The bulletin boards are usually found in dorms, classroom buildings, dining halls and locker rooms, so keep your eyes peeled for postings. Social networking is another avenue to explore. Talk to roommates, classmates and friends to see if they are selling any of the textbooks you need.
Textbook rental services provide a cheaper alternative to purchasing college textbooks. The textbooks can be rented from independent services offered on some college campuses and online retailers such as Campusbookrentals.com and Chegg.com. For a fee, you can rent new and used textbooks for periods ranging from 60 to 130 days. Online services offer added perks such as rent extensions, flexible rental periods and free shipping options. Please note that textbook rental services charge replacement fees for lost, damaged or excessively marked and highlighted textbooks.