By Taylor Bryant
During the 2014 spring semester the UWG Bookstore saved students a substantial amount of money by ordering predominantly used books instead of new books. Used books typically sell for 30-40 percent less than the new ones. The savings are a result of textbook adoptions being made in advance by faculty for their courses.
“As a direct result of getting the adoption information from faculty and departments early, we have filled almost all adoptions with the exception of only a few titles with used books,” says Dr. Jon Anderson, UWG deputy provost and professor of management. “Thus while the industry pricing for textbooks will almost assuredly go up this summer, the price of textbooks for our UWG students should go down.”
Used textbooks are exchanged in wholesale markets where textbook prices vary greatly depending upon timing, supply and demand. As such, the earlier the UWG bookstore can get to “market” and order used textbooks, while supply is high, the lower the price will be to the student, and the more likely it will be available in the appropriate quantities. As such, the best service to the student in terms of delivery time and price happens when the bookstore is aware of the required text as early as possible.
The same process is underway for the 2014 fall semester, with hopes of continued savings on book purchases for UWG students. Numbers showed that in early April, textbook adoptions were far ahead of the previous year’s orders.
“This trend has continued into the summer semester with 94 percent of all textbook adoptions already received and processed,” adds Dr. Anderson. “If we continue to get orders in early, we will continue the trend and save students money.”
“This is truly a collaborative effort where UWG faculty and Bookstore staff are able to work together to help significantly reduce the costs of attending college for our UWG students,” says Mark Reeves, assistant vice president for Business and Auxiliary Services. “Students have noticed the pricing difference and expressed sincere appreciation. As the program has evolved semester over semester, it has gained momentum and support that has helped to generate even greater savings. It is exciting!”
