Aside from the pricey tuition that university students pay every semester, the rising costs of textbooks is another major dilemma that students face. The costs of textbooks have risen by 834% over the last 30 years. While students are already struggling to save enough money for their tuition, the costs of books become additional financial burden for them. Depending on the field of study, an average student can spend up to $1000 per semester on textbooks. The prices of new textbooks can range from $150 to $300.

University students try to keep their textbooks in good condition so they can sell it to others.

Students with little money in their pocket may resort to buying used books at a reduced cost or look online for the best deal, because who likes to pay full price? However, students may be set back from purchasing used textbooks when the publisher releases a new edition. If the professor requires their students to have a specific edition for the course, students are left with no choice. Perhaps, they can spend a few nights at the bookstore or share the cost of a book with a friend. Either way, both are not preferable solutions. As a first year university student, I experienced similar frustration as many students – searching, contacting, and bargaining for required textbooks at the lowest price possible. Needless to say, purchasing textbooks from the bookstore would be my last option