Carolyn Crim carefully searches the binding of each book in The University of Memphis bookstore.
The title is almost as important as the little orange sticker on the binding of each text that says “used.”
“I definitely look for used books,” Crim said. “I try to buy used books or books online because they are a lot cheaper.”
Crim is beginning her graduate work in counseling this semester.
There are several reasons students buy used books.
The Government Accountability Office released a national survey citing soaring averages in textbook prices. The price increases are mainly due to additions to the normal book packages like CD-ROMs and Web site aids.
On average, textbooks have increased 6-percent a year, twice the rate of inflation the past decade, GAO said.
Students are not the only ones who are noticing the rising prices.
Tiger Bookstore Manager Keith Bond said bookstores are also feeling the crunch.
“It’s hard not to notice the prices,” Bond said. “We are seeing almost monthly increases in book costs. It is not good on the students and the bookstore is feeling the effects, too.”
Cost hikes are making used books even more sought after said University of Memphis Bookstore clerk Kimberly Cobb.
“Most definitely all students are looking for used books,” Cobb said. “Used books are just cheaper.”
Used books mean cheaper prices off campus at The Tiger Bookstore as well. “Used books have increased in popularity because they are the cheaper buy,” Bond said.
Students looking to cash in on used book discounts may find it harder than ever to find the right buy.
“We are already out of used books in some sections,” Cobb said.
New editions are also taking their toll on used book availability.
“We still order a lot of new books,” Bond said. “Used books are always affected by new editions coming out.”
If an order is placed for an updated version of a textbook, students will be unable to find a used edition for their class.
“You won’t be able to find used books in about every other section of the store (because of new editions),” Cobb said.
Bookstores could boost used book sales with a little more cooperation from faculty, said Bond.
“It would be great if we knew early what books students need from professors,” Bond said.
Knowing earlier means cheaper used books and more profits for bookstores.
On average, local bookstores usually only make about a 9-percent profit on new books.
Cutting expenses like shipping and employee expenses help keep prices low.
That is money that can be passed on to the students, Bond said.
“We have a decent selection of used books and have increased that amount over last year,” Bond said. “We are always looking for used books.”
