Books

How to Find Cheap Textbooks Online

By: Joseph Akintaju on November 28, 2012 @ 9:32 pm

As if tuition hikes and gutted college programs were not enough for the average student, they also have to put up with overly expensive textbook prices. Most college campus bookstores do offer used textbooks, but since they are cheaper than the outrageously priced new books, they are often the first ones to go. But, there are many options available to students that can aid them in their search for a cheap textbook. There are many tips and tricks to finding the right one. For example, sometimes an older version or edition of a textbook can be found for a much cheaper price. This is usually worth it because at most a new edition will add up to 10 pages or so of new material, which a student can usually skirt by in class. There are hundreds upon hundreds of online used and new textbook retailers, but here is a list of some of the most reliable and time-tested sites.

Amazon

Amazon has pretty much taken over the entire book store world, and for good reason. Even though, Amazon has, more or less, single-handedly destroyed the traditional bookstore, it was bound to happen sooner or later anyway. The great thing about Amazon is that they have just about every book imaginable, or can find you someone who does have it if they do not. Amazon also allows the customer to compare prices, the condition of the book and many other factors. In essence, it is the best option for someone who likes one-stop shopping.

Ebay

Ebay is very much modeled on the Amazon business plan when it comes to bookselling. They have all the features that Amazon does, but because of the bidding process that may be involved in some purchases, it can take a little bit longer. Plus, if the book is in high demand, then the bidding may be driven upwards and the time spent on the site may become pointless. But still, Ebay is a great resource if you are trying to find a textbook for cheap.

Craig’s List

Craig’s List is especially handy because it is localized. That means that you can try to find the exact book that you need via another college student who just took the class and does not need the book anymore. In many ways, Craig’s List has eliminated the middleman from the whole used textbook process.

Bookmooch.com

Book Mooch is an interesting blend of social media savvy and used bookstore selling. Essentially, you can make a list of books you are looking for, as well as list books that you want to get rid of, and then you can swap them with other people. The use of the site is entirely free, as are the books, but you do have to pay for shipping and handling of the books.

Local Used Book Stores

If all of those fail, or if you are just a big fan of “buying local” then you should consider paying a visit to your local used bookstores website.

Bernard is a frugal student, working hard towards his mha degree and trying to beat as many games as he can before the next Steam sale.

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