Word of Barnes & Noble at UNC Charlotte’s move into book rental was broadcast on all the Charlotte TV news stations and printed in newspapers from Asheville to Raleigh. Such a bold commitment for textbook affordability is big news! That being said…
…Currently, one-third of textbook titles are available for Fall 2010 rental. That’s a good start for a brand new program, but it’s still a start.
There are texts that don’t qualify for rental. They include:
- Older editions
- Texts packaged with software or other items
- Loose-leaf or perforated page books
Much is being done on the part of the faculty, Business Services and the bookstore to help that number go up for future semesters. Students can help by respectfully encouraging their instructors to select the kinds of textbooks that can be put into a rental program. That way, students will have the choice to rent or to purchase (new or used). Karen Natale, who serves as the Licensing and Bookstore Contract Manager for the University says, “Of course, the most important thing is for the instructor to choose the best book for their course. We’re working to add affordability into that mix without jeopardizing the quality of the material.”
Do you want to know about textbook rental at UNC Charlotte? Here’s where you’ll find FAQs and an article outlining pros and cons of both purchasing and renting textbooks: Bookstore website. Still have more questions? Contact Karen Natale, knatale@uncc.edu or 704‑687‑7683.