College textbooks have to be one of the biggest rackets out there. You’d think the textbook industry was controlled by the mob. (We’re looking at you, Little Professor!) You could afford a decent vacation in the Caribbean for what one semester of textbooks can set you back. Some classes cost more than the rent you pay for your Athens Ohio apartment. And while Amazon may be a wonderful bargain for music, it’s textbook savings is pretty paltry. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to get the books and education materials you need and save. Here are 6 hacks the textbook mafia doesn’t want you to know.
Wait Until After the First Class to Buy
When it comes to buying textbooks, procrastination is on your side. Some professors will level with you if only a few portions of the textbook is important. Then you can just share with someone else. They might be able to suggest cheaper used copies for those who can’t afford them. Plus, there’s always a chance someone will drop out who’s already bought the book and you can buy it off them used.
Buy Older Editions
Aside from the New Testament, newer editions tend not to be that different. Most textbook companies only release new editions just to keep sales coming in. Buying an edition or two behind the times tends to save you 50% or more.
Rent
You rent your Ohio University apartment because you won’t live in it forever. You rent the latest blockbuster from Redbox because you’ll only watch it once. Why can’t you rent a textbook for an exam you’ll take in a few weeks?
Lots of players have entered the textbook rental game, including Valore, Chegg’s, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
Go Digital
Download it onto a Kindle, tablet or computer and save big time. It’s easier to take notes. And carrying around a lightweight device is so much easier than a backpack full of books. Your back will thank you for it!
Hit the Library
Alden keeps several copies of popular textbooks in stock. You may be competing against other cheapskate colleagues, but if it isn’t a critical book the whole course is based on, you might get away with it.
Share with Your Friends
Sharing isn’t just caring. It’s saving, big time. Network with your friends and form a book swap. This can help inspire study groups, so it’s a win win.
These hacks may take a little more effort, but the savings can be substantial. Compare the savings to what you pay in rent for your Athens Ohio apartment. If sharing a book or using an older copy essentially saves the rent for a month, it’s worth it!