Due to the increase in college tuition, students are finding crafty ways in which they can cut back on their college expenses. One of the many ways that students are cutting back is through their college book expenses. That is, students are saving approximately 70% off of retail price by opting to rent their college textbooks. Therefore, in this article, we explore the best places to buy college textbooks for rent.
Are There Any Disadvantages To Renting Textbooks?
There are some inherent disadvantages to renting college textbooks. The biggest complaint is that you must return the book after your agreed upon rental period is over. Typically, students rent college textbooks for a quarter, semester, or summer. Therefore, it becomes impossible for students to refer back to their books after the rental period is over. Therefore, it is recommended that students do not rent books that are within their major. Meaning, if you are a Business Administration major and are renting an accounting book, chances are you will need this book for future reference, and thus should have bought this book instead.
Can I Save Money If I Rent College Textbooks?
According to the Washington Post, students save about 60% on a book titled “Social Psychology”, compared to if they were to buy it new. The Washington Post did a prices comparison and found that a new book was $143, used $107, e-book $100, and renting $60. So, the answer to the question is yes, you can save money if you rent college textbooks.
How Does Renting College Textbooks Work?
College Textbooks for rent can be obtained by visiting a physical store or shopping online. Usually, you will need either the ISBN number (bar code number assigned to the book) or the title. After, you’ve gathered all of your books, you will be required to give a period of time in which you will be renting the book. If you are ordering online, then you must select a shipping option and address for delivery. Finally, after you are done with your books, you must mail or return your books back to the store.
Where Can I Rent College Textbooks?
First, you can start by checking out your local bookstores in your area. Usually, there are bookstores located near your college that may have a college textbooks for rent program. You can also check the best 5 textbook renting companies online. They are:
Chegg.com
Skoobit.com
BookRenter.com
Conclusion
College textbooks for rent are a great way to save money and hedge yourself against the raising cost of college. Moreover, the great thing about renting textbooks online is that you can research prices of online retailers, and compare them to the prices that are in your local area or university bookstores.
Sources:
Finding the Best College Textbooks for Rent
College Students Rent Textbooks to Save Money
Skoobit.com
Chegg.com
Bookrenter.com
