This article appeared in the Fresh Start issue of the Collegian, sent to new Penn State students.
You may think you’re done making huge payments after sending in that final tuition bill, but you aren’t quite finished, because one last thing you’ll need for your classes is your books.
An easy on-campus location to get them is at the Penn State Bookstore located in the HUB-Robeson Center. They have a convenient system set up so students can swipe their ID+ cards and a computer will print out a list of books they need for every class.
The Penn State Bookstore carries most of the books specifically required for classes, which makes it less of a hassle to buy the right books. The Bookstore also provides the option to buy books new or used. The used books tend to still be in good condition and offers an easy way to save money.
Lindsay Grossman (freshman-division of undergraduate studies) said that’s where she went to get her books.
Another option is the Student Book Store, 330 E. College Ave. This bookstore offers the same books and the option to rent books, providing yet another way for students to save money.
“I like to rent them from The Student Bookstore,” said Sam McGowan (freshman-forensics).
Some students said they prefer renting their books, especially after having to get books for five to six classes, as costs tend to add up quickly.
For those who like to plan ahead, buying books online before classes start can be even more helpful.
“I get mine from Amazon because it’s cheaper. I’m also planning to rent them out after I’m done using them,” Kate Rouleau (freshman-international relations) said.
Online sellers like Amazon, eBay and Craigslist will sell new and used books for what will most likely be the cheapest prices.
The only downside to buying online is that it could take weeks for the books to be delivered.
To get an idea of what books are needed if one wants to buy them in advance, eLion allows students to check online for specific courses. Students can also email professors to get a better idea of what books they might need.
That said, some professors don’t actually require the books that are listed for the course. Regardless of how students go about buying or renting books, know that there have plenty of options with how to get them, some of which may be pricey.
