TIPS ON SAVING MONEY ON TEXTBOOKS

Reading is a key component of learning.  The textbooks required for the Retail Management Courses are important.  They provide a foundation for each course and a reference for the students.  However, some textbooks can be very expensive and students may have trouble affording them.  As a result, some students and instructors have helped create tips for students who want to save money on textbooks. 

 1.  Purchasing texts at the College Bookstore

 If you plan to purchase your books at the college bookstore, get the textbook information well before class starts (ISBN number or title/author)   and try to find used copies.  Otherwise you will pay full price for a new book (some new texts are almost $200!).

 2. Purchasing texts via “cheap textbook” websites

Many web sites offer up to 50% or more savings on textbooks.  Frequently they are “Used Textbooks,” but sometimes even new textbooks are discounted.  

 Before considering this option, here’s some critical advice from other students/teachers: 

  • You must be proactive and organized.  Get the information about the required textbook (ISBN number or title/author) well in advance of the class.   Students who procrastinate and don’t order their book until the class starts may have to go for weeks without a book.  This is NOT advisable.
  • Be aware that most of the textbooks on these web sites are posted by individuals (similar to e-bay), the prices, service and time required are VERY inconsistent.  Some students receive their books right away.  Others have waited 6 weeks or more to get their shipment! 
  • Be prepared to pay for books well in advance of the class.   Also, KEEP your receipts if you are eligible for reimbursement. 
  • Understand that it is possible you won’t be able to find the book you need at all, or may end up paying even more than what the COLLEGE bookstore would charge. 

 Several website options are provided below.

3. Purchasing an “Electronic Textbook”

Instead of using a traditional textbook, students who are comfortable reading the material on a computer screen, may find an “E-Book” to be an excellent option.  Using an E-Book instead of a regular print book can cut the price by 30% to 50%.   

 You can purchase the whole book, a chapter at a time, or even an audio book in some cases.   Students must have a reliable Internet connection; Students register online, purchase the book using a credit card, and then receive a unique login and password to download the text, or to access it online. 

 

 

 

4.  Purchasing an Unbound Text

Some publishers offer an unbound, 3-hole punch version of the text.  (It is like a photocopy of the textbook, but from the publisher so that it complies with copyright laws.)  Students would need to provide their own 3-ring binder.  This is less durable than a hardcover, bound textbook, but may save up to 40% on the price of books. Students can also write all over the pages if they so desire, making notes or comments.  These purchases are typically not refundable or resalable.

Disclaimer:   The tips offered in this document are intended to be helpful, in an effort to help students save money on textbooks.   The tips contained herein are examples – not an all-inclusive list.  The WAFC is not requiring or recommending any particular purchase option, and is not  responsible for purchases made, purchased delayed, or purchases never received.   Purchase at your own risk.