Buies Creek, N.C.— This fall, Campbell University launched a new textbook rental program, making Campbell one of the first universities in the Triangle area to offer such a plan. The program is made possible through a partnership between the Campbell University administration and the campus bookstore, managed by Barnes & Noble.
“With textbook rentals, students can realize a tremendous savings, paying less than half of what they would to purchase a new, printed textbook,” said Campbell Vice President for Business and Treasurer Jim Roberts. “We expect it will have a big impact on Campbell University students not only because of the wonderful savings, but because the program is so convenient and easy to use.”
The multi-channel program allows students to rent their books either in the store or from the bookstore’s website – whichever is more convenient. Rental fees, which provide a savings of more than 50% over purchasing a new book, can be paid for using any form of tender currently accepted by the bookstore, (excluding Paypal) including student financial Aid (Creek Bucks). A valid credit card is required for security. While not every textbook title is included in the rental program, more than 160 titles are available for rent this fall.
The rental terms and conditions are designed to give students maximum convenience and flexibility. For example, moderate highlighting and note-taking are permitted and the rental period covers the entire term. In fact, students have up to 10 days after the last day of finals to return their rented textbooks. They can bring books to bookstore or mail them back. As an added convenience, to help students remember to return their books, the bookstore will send out courtesy emails alerting students that the rental period is ending. If a book is not returned or is returned in unusable condition, replacement and processing fees are charged to the credit card on file for that student.
Barnes & Noble’s textbook rental program was piloted earlier this year at 25 schools. According to the company, more than 90% of students who used the program said they liked it and would rent from the campus bookstore again. “We have always been focused on giving our students as many low cost options as possible,” said bookstore manager Nick McKay. “We already offer a large supply of used books, unbundled books, custom books, and eTextbooks. Now with rentals, students can get all the options they want, right here.”
More information about the textbook rental program is available at the bookstore or on its website http://www.campbell.bncollege.com.