Spring Break
Online Prices or WNMU Bookstore:
Who gives the student a better deal?
Cassandra Bluett
Issue date: 1/26/06 Section: Front Page
During an interview with The Mustang, Rose Hagaman, textbook manager of the campus bookstore, stated, "The bookstore must buy directly from the publisher or from our own supplier. We are not permitted to supply books that are from off-campus retailers." Hagaman also pointed out that the campus bookstore does not determine the pricing of books it carries, and that each textbook is only marked up an average of 27 percent. The mark up is necessary to cover overhead, such as employees according to Hagaman.
Some students also find ways to cheat the system. A student, who wishes to remain anonymous, has found a way to use the bookstore and save money on books. "I always buy my books online, because it is much cheaper. If I need a book right away, I will buy it from the bookstore and take it back on the last day they accept returns. It's dishonest, but it saves money."
For students who choose to follow this student's bad example, one must be careful. In some instances, if you buy a new book and do not return it in its original condition, or if the shrink-wrap is removed, the bookstore may not refund your money and you must keep the book.
The bookstore is a fast, convenient way to buy the textbooks and supplies you need. However, if you are looking to save a little cash, the Internet is the best choice, if you can wait for the item to be shipped. Some things are worth the wait.
Some students also find ways to cheat the system. A student, who wishes to remain anonymous, has found a way to use the bookstore and save money on books. "I always buy my books online, because it is much cheaper. If I need a book right away, I will buy it from the bookstore and take it back on the last day they accept returns. It's dishonest, but it saves money."
For students who choose to follow this student's bad example, one must be careful. In some instances, if you buy a new book and do not return it in its original condition, or if the shrink-wrap is removed, the bookstore may not refund your money and you must keep the book.
The bookstore is a fast, convenient way to buy the textbooks and supplies you need. However, if you are looking to save a little cash, the Internet is the best choice, if you can wait for the item to be shipped. Some things are worth the wait.
