If you are a college student, or the parent of a college student you know the cost of books can be hefty. Each time you start new courses you need new books and in today’s economy the struggle to afford college textbooks is a reality for many students. What’s more, is according to the U.S. Government Accountability Office the cost of books is actually going up at a rapid pace. Fortunately, the following tips will help you get your college textbooks with emptying your wallet at the same time.
1. Buy early. If you get to the college bookstore first you are more likely to find a used copy of the book you need. If you wait till the last minute new will be your only option and new books can add up in cost.
2. Comparison shop. Right down the ISBN numbers for the books on your list. Go online with the ISBN numbers and see if you can get them cheaper at and online retailer.
3. Don’t be afraid to go paperless. Oftentimes, books are available in a digital version to use on your computer. These ebooks are often far less expensive than the paper format.
4. Rent books. There are a number of sites that allow you to pay a subscription and rent the college textbooks you need. Just like a movie rental service, you return the book when you are done with it. However, like movie rentals late books have late feed. Stay on top of returns to avoid excessive charges.
5. Exchange books with your buddies. Ask around to see what books people have that you need and swap books. You can even start a book swap with multiple people in which everyone brings the books they don’t need. The more people the more likely it is everyone gets what they need.