Textbook sellers near campus like the University Co-op and Austin TXbooks, formerly known as Beat the Bookstore, have started textbook rental programs of their own, following the model of online textbook rental services like Chegg.com and BookRenter.com.
“Students asked. We’re happy to provide the option,” said Chad Smith, director of course materials for the Co-op.
[…]
Austin TXbooks, along with other textbook stores, started its own textbook rental program after enough students requested it.
“Renting is here,” owner Ken Jones said. “If you complain enough, people will give you what you think you want.”
But Jones said he discouraged students from renting this semester because they lose more money than if they bought books and sold them back.
“Thirty to 40 percent of the money for sites like Chegg come from fees,” Jones said. Students are charged for water spots, excessive writing and late return. Jones said in the long run these fees could add up and cost students more than they would save by buying the book.
Read the full story at the Daily Texan.
Please join the conversation about our stories on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Reddit, MeWe, Rumble, Gab, Minds and Gettr.