TO THE EDITOR:
In response to the editorial on Monday (“Empty pocketbooks”), sometimes the responsibility falls on students to find the most cost effective option.
In my six years as an undergraduate and graduate student, this is how I have saved money on textbooks.
1. Research all options for textbooks. Often Student Stores will offer “cost saving” textbooks tailored to the course, excluding unnecessary chapters. Sometimes, though, you can get a full version of the textbook used online for cheaper.
2. Sell your textbooks. Amazon, Student Stores and many options off Franklin Street are available. On several occasions, I made a profit selling a used book I bought earlier that semester.
3. Trade textbooks with friends, or sell them your textbooks. My friends and I would exchange at an agreed upon price: halfway between the Student Stores’ buyback price and the cost of a used book. This allowed for the buyer to get a better price, and the seller to get extra coin.
4. If a book is not required, consider not buying it. The libraries carry most texts, both required and suggested. Use them.
5. If you order online and receive an international edition, Student Stores will not buy it back. Expect that, and consider reselling online instead.
6. Older editions are rarely unacceptable options and are usually much cheaper.
