Textbooks: To Buy of Not To Buy

Textbooks are so expensive. However, there are ways to get around their high costs if you’re patient and resourceful. Look first for used texts, of course. There's a better chance of finding one if you begin early. But wait! Read on.

As a general rule, I never buy any books until I have sat through at least one lecture. Only then is it possible to get the true sense of what the profs expect in terms of readings, and if they felt that the textbook was truly a necessity. For example, if all or most of the information is presented in lecture and on the slides, and the textbook is simply for clarification, I would suggest not making the purchase. Often, profs will put at least one copy “on reserve” at the library. Here, you can sign the text out for a couple of hours at a time.

It's also possible to share texts. My first point, waiting until after the first lecture is also a good idea because you can see if you know anyone in your class who you might be able share books with. I've never done it myself, but it would be possible to organize a group of three or four people at the end of the lecture to share a book.

Sometimes, though, you should buy the textbook. Even at the ludicrous price they charge for them. For instance, if you are a biology major like me, a first year bio text will always be relevant and serves as a good tool to refresh the basics. Also, if you do your research, you may get lucky and be able to use a text multiple times. I purchased a biochemistry text which ended up being a required text for four additional courses!

Happy hunting.