It is entirely possible to purchase school textbooks online, and it is frequently far less expensive than visiting a campus bookstore. Used and new books can be easily found in bookstores and online auctions. When it comes to textbooks, a little comparison shopping can often save you 50% or more.
New textbook retailers on the internet can usually offer better prices than campus bookstores. Specialty bookstores that only sell textbooks can order in bulk and sell them at a reduced price. Others sell a wide range of items, but frequently run shipping specials that can justify paying a few dollars more per book. To get the best deals, look for advertised free shipping specials.
School textbooks can be easily found online at auction sites or secondhand stores. Half.com is one of the most well-known of these sites, but specialty stores can occasionally provide better deals. There is no guarantee that the best price today will be the best price tomorrow because auction sites have constant stock changes with various users.
The benefit of these specialized used book stores is that many of them also buy back the books they sell. Campus bookstores usually provide this service as well, so it’s a good idea to shop around at the end of the semester to see who will give you the best deal on your unwanted books. This extra money can be used to purchase books for the next semester or provide a much-needed cash boost at the end of the school year.
Renting school textbooks is another option for finding them online. This service has steadily grown since its inception in the early 2000s. Some websites claim to be able to save students up to 85% off the cost of textbooks. This alternative can provide similar cost effectiveness for those who do not want to go through the hassle of buying and selling used books.
There are a few things to consider when purchasing school textbooks online. Use the International Standard Book Number (ISBN) to ensure you’re getting the right edition, especially if you’re shopping at a used bookstore. Information changes between editions, so make sure you’re getting the right one. When it comes to literature books, keep in mind that some teachers request specific forwards or commentary in the edition they request. The edition will usually be noted on the syllabus if this is the case. When looking up school textbook prices online, remember to factor in shipping costs, as some stores will offer significant discounts, making them less expensive even if their book prices are higher.