Textbook Options: Rentals, E-Texts, Just the Chapter

There are noticeably sharp differences in the prices of textbooks this fall. Students now have more options than ever before, including textbook renting and e-Textbooks, that will cut the costs of course materials.

Over the summer, Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act went in effect to protect students from the skyrocketing textbook prices.

The new law requires that textbook companies and university bookstores communicate during the time of class registration.

This ensures that students will have time to shop around for cheaper deals before they are overloaded with course work for the semester.

The law also requires the textbook name, price, and if possible International Standard Book Number (ISBN) number, be provided in the course catalog.

These provisions were created in order to ensure that students are aware of the correct textbook and edition needed for the semester.

Additionally, all textbook bundles are required to be sold separately.

The bookstore at SUNY Rockland, which is run by Follett, takes part in the rent-a-text program with which students will save 50 percent or more on rentals.

So far, students are happy with this new option. Renting a new or old textbook from the bookstore equals in price, therefore bookstore salesclerks will generally set you up with a new book, saving the used copies for students who are buying.

E-Books are an alternative option that are available on Coursesmart.com, but many texts are not yet available online and some students find it difficult to study off of a computer screen. According to Chegg.com, rentals tend to be even cheaper than the electronic version

Although renting textbooks from the bookstore is cheaper than buying, renting online can save a student even more money.

The required Math 101, Elementary Algebra Etc 8th Edition, has a set rental price of $72.79 at the RCC bookstore, but on Chegg.com the same book is $57.49, including shipping.

Websites such as Campusbooks.com and Bigwords.com are serving as the Expedia.com of textbooks, allowing you to search for the cheapest new, used, and rent-able books.

However, some students may not want to go out of their way to research for bargains online. "Going to the bookstore is more convenient for me," said student, Rich Wilson. "Renting books online sounds more complicated."

It is also important to take advantage of the Cash for Books program on campus. Although the student will not receive the money in its entirety, the campus bookstore will buy back most books in decent condition.

The only catch is that courses often change required book to a new edition, which can prevent a student from selling it back.