There are numerous advantages to purchasing a used textbook rather than a new one for a class. A used textbook is not only less expensive, but it is also easier to buy and resell than a new textbook. Furthermore, purchasing used textbooks is more environmentally friendly, and it allows you to read marginal notes or highlighted sections left previous owners.
A used textbook is usually much less expensive than a new textbook, and buying used can save you a lot of money. Used science textbooks, for example, are frequently half the price of newer versions of the same books, with some reduced to as little as a third of the price of the new book. Many used books are the same edition as their newer counterparts, so students will not miss out on any new information and will have the same page numbers and chapter order.
Buying a used textbook is also more practical for a variety of reasons. For starters, because used textbooks are often more plentiful than new textbooks, bookstores and websites typically stock more used books or have more connections to used book sellers. Second, used textbooks can be purchased from secondhand stores, online, in school bookstores, or even from friends who have previously taken the same course, whereas new textbooks are only available online and in bookstores. Finally, reselling a used textbook typically returns a higher percentage of the original purchase price than reselling a new textbook. This means that if a student does not intend to keep the book, it will be worth less when resold.
The fact that used textbooks are environmentally friendly is an additional benefit. Buying a used textbook will, in the long run, reduce the demand for new college textbooks if many other students do the same. By purchasing used textbooks, many students value the reduction in paper consumption.
To the delight of many students, used textbooks frequently contain marginal notes and highlighting that can be helpful when studying. Some of these notes will contain facts or data not found in the textbook, providing additional relevant information and study material. Highlighted sections are also useful for students who plan to skim the book because they can point out the most important information and key concepts in each chapter. Many students find that making additional notes in the book helps them pass it on to the next owner when it is resold.