Some classes required students to get digital access to a course –specific website that is administered by the instructor. These website are similar to online classes and can include assignments, quizzes, study aids, discussion groups, and even an e-textbook. Although some access codes can be purchased separately (similar to an online subscription) they usually are packaged with new textbooks or included in custom bundles.

Instructors often work with publishers to create custom course material bundles. These packages often include an abridged version of the required textbook, an access code, and possibly lecture notes produced specifically for the class. Individual components might be available for purchase separately.

At the end of term, The Bookstore provides students with the opportunity to sell their textbooks through an online program called Textbook Buyback. If your professor or another professor has opted to adopt the book for the next semester, then you may be able to get money for your course materials. Visit our online buyback program today to get your quote!

Some textbooks are available in a digital format that can be read on a variety of devices. Because there are no associated printing costs, the price of e-textbooks is generally lower than traditional formats. It’s worth noting, however, the access may expire after a certain length of time, generally 6-24 months.

An International Standard Book Number (ISBN) is 13-digit number that uniquely identifies the specific edition of a given work. It’s important for students to find the ISBN of a required course material to make sure they have the correct edition needed. Please note: This number of each course material will be needed to recieve a quote for the buyback program!

A learning management system, or electronic registrar, handles record keeping for enrollment and student management, including information on students such as skills tracking. Students can log into the LMS to view information on each of their classes, submit homework, take tests, participate in discussions, and communicate with faculty. In some cases, course materials may even be accessed through the LMS. WSCC uses the LMS, Canvas.

Open educational resources are materials that are available at no cost or low cost to students. This is because they were created under an open copyright license or are no longer under copyright. Many OER materials must be accessed online, but check with your professor to see if a print version is available.

Professors might recommend optional materials to expand students’ understanding of a given subject. Unlike required textbooks and course materials, instructors don’t generally refer to optional materials nor will they assign specific readings or assignments from them.

Always, always, always keep your receipts! If you need to return any of your course materials, you’ll need the receipt. Before you purchase or rent materials, take the time to read and understand the return policy. Don’t assume that our vendor will allow you to return materials for full credit. Also, most course materials are considered tax deductible, which again requires the receipts.

These are textbooks and course materials that instructors will teach from, often assigning specific readings and assignments necessary to learn the subject. These materials are considered essential for academic success. Most lab manuals, for example, are required since students must regularly submit completed assignments for grading purposes.

Many campus stores rent textbooks for a set period, such as a semester. This can be a cost-effective solution, especially when students won’t be using the textbook for subsequent classes. If you decide to rent textbooks through our online Bookstore, make sure to keep track of the date your rental is due back. If you do not return your rental on time your card will be charged.

Because many professors use the same textbook for several terms, students are often able to buy (and sell) used textbooks, whether through the Bookstore's online textbook store or another location, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Be aware that instructors require specific editions of a given textbook for their courses. Be sure to make sure that you’re getting the correct version required for your class. Also, if a course requires an access code, see if the Bookstore offers the code to be purchases separately before buying used materials elsewhere. Otherwise you may end up spending more money than you anticipated. Finally, because stock is always limited, be sure to shop early in the term as used books tend to sell first. When in doubt, ask our staff for assistance.