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During the past two weeks, students at the University of Louisville have been registering for spring classes.
While enrolling in new classes is a relatively easy process, paying for the required textbooks can be a pain. It seems that every semester, the same complaints ring loud and clear throughout the student body – that we are essentially being hustled by college bookstores. It is time that students and faculty throughout campus unite and do something about it.
For anyone who has spent more than one semester on a college campus, it is no secret that students shell out ridiculous amounts of money for books and receive a miniscule fraction of that money when selling them back. This problem has been widely recognized across America, which has prompted Student Public Interest Research Groups to run a campaign against college textbook industries. The campaign is an effort to make book prices more reasonable for students and to stop textbook price inflation. Groups like these should be applauded and supported for their recognition and call to action on this issue. After all, the more student support they receive, the stronger their campaign will become.
Of course, students must keep in mind that the college book industry is a business like any other. It is essential that they make money, but it seems that there are a few simple, economical rules they could follow in order to operate more successfully. Most importantly, these publishers should keep in mind the budgets of their customers. If students cannot afford the books, it is unlikely they will purchase them at all or resort to buying them online. Selling more books at low prices rather few books at high prices would not only generate more revenue, it would help satisfy the college customer base that is necessary for these businesses to function.
In the meantime, there are many things that students can do to avoid increasing book prices. Some participate in book swapping clubs, which trade books with other students who have taken a particular course before. Also, students can support online businesses that offer used textbooks at affordable prices, like Amazon.com. Even though these options may mean going without a book for the first few days of class, the financial relief is sometimes worth the wait.
Also, it is sometimes not necessary to buy the latest editions of textbooks. The latest editions are often more expensive for only slightly different content. For example, it is unlikely that medieval history will change much from year to year. So, instead of buying a $50 new edition, try searching for an older version of the book that could very well provide you with the same material for less money.
Professors can also help in the fight for fair book prices. Books are often cheaper if required textbook lists are submitted to the stores in a timely fashion. Also, when selecting what texts to use for courses, evaluate how often and how necessary this text is to achieving course goals. There is nothing worse than feeling as if you bought a book that was not necessary for a class.
So, as you are registering for the spring, keep in mind that there are ways to get your textbooks without breaking the bank. If students collectively seek out these options, perhaps we will see a change at the cash register in the future.
