3 Cost-Saving Ways to Find Textbooks

by M.L. Harris

When taking classes online, it is important to have the right tools available to ensure your academic success. One tool often used is the textbook. Textbooks can provide a wealth of up-to-date knowledge in your chosen field and allow you to better interpret class materials. The writers may word concepts or definitions in a way that is easier to understand, which enhances your ability to learn.

One significant downfall with textbooks, however, is the cost. Students often spend hundreds of dollars each semester on textbooks and usually do not gain the money paid towards the book when schools buy them back for future classes. Sometimes, the school will not take back books at all, leaving students frustrated and with more debt. Some universities have moved towards ebooks, which are more affordable for most students and easily available through computers or devices like iPads or tablet computers.

For students that do not have the option or ability to find textbooks online, here are some ways you can save money when you must get a specific book for class.

1. Rent from the Internet

There are many great websites that allow textbook rentals, which can save you money from purchasing a copy wholesale and any shipping costs you could incur buying it elsewhere. Websites like Chegg.com and Campusbookrentals.com give you a box or book sleeve and a shipping label for you to use when you are finished with your course and want to return the book. Not only does this free students of anxiety from having to pay for shipping costs, but allows them to worry less about the high costs of textbooks.

2. Look on Your School Website or in Your Campus Bookstore

While books that schools buy back are often sold for a profit, many school websites offer discounts for used copies as opposed to new ones they have to bring in from publishers. Check for deals in your campus bookstore before the school year starts as well so you know what books are available for students and which ones are so popular the bookstore has a wait list for books. Looking early could save you the trouble of buying a book elsewhere at a higher price!

3. Borrow or Buy from a Friend

Many students can rest easy knowing their friends who have taken courses in which they are enrolled can help them find their materials. If you are lucky, your friend took the course before you and can lend you their book or sell it to you at a cheaper price. The notes they wrote in it may help you out with class work, which is an added bonus.

If you find yourself struggling with the class or feel unorganized, even after obtaining the correct text book, perhaps this article on time management tips will inspire you.