Buying Books

BOOKS: 

Strapped for cash but need to purchase your books before class starts?  


Get resourceful.  Consider  used books (compare prices) or rent-a-book options.  Inquire at the school bookstore or other book links (like those listed below).  Other temporary solutions include sharing a book with a willing classmate or asking your instructor if they are willing to put a book on reserve at the school library.

Buying Used Books:  Ensure you have the correct book and edition by checking for the ISBN# on the required textbook.  This is an example of an ISBN#.  


(TIP: Verify that you are able to access any software or online resources that may have accompanied the original book, as those may be part of the required class reading.) 






Bookstore Credit:  If you have processed your financial aid in time, you may have a school bookstore credit. Bookstore credits allow you to charge some or all of your books and supplies at the school bookstore. The credit is then paid when your financial aid disbursement is released. (COCC students -check your ‘Bobcat Web Account’ for Active ‘Messages’ to see if you have sufficient financial aid for a bookstore credit. ).   

Buy Backs: At the end of the term, the school bookstore may buy back books you purchase through them for a portion of the original cost. Learn your school's bookstore buy back policy and deadlines and keep receipts.  (COCC students - please visit COCC Buy Back.  You can even sell your own text books through the MBS Textbook Exchange).


Waitlists: If you are on a class waitlist, but want to purchase the books/materials in case you get into the course, make sure you know the bookstore return policy (for instance, some will not allow returns on materials that have been unwrapped or opened).


Book Links

COCC Bookstore- (COCC students)


(I am not endorsing any of these websites, but here are a few I've heard about through other students): 

http://www.bookrenter.com 

http://www.textbooks.com

http://www.chegg.com

http://www.amazon.com


Some students also search http://www.craigslist.com for used local books.   


(TIP: If ordering online through an external vendor, check that you have enough shipping time to receive the book before classes begin.  There may also be student discounts on shipping so be sure to search their websites for promotions).



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