Are you renting your textbook? If you are a Madison College student, you are.
In 2019, Madison College evolved from a traditional textbook-purchase program to a textbook-rental program. The program saved students $1.4 million overall, according to Holly Deering, the Madison College Bookstore associate manager.
The program is thanks to a partnership between the Madison College Bookstore, the Madison College Student Activities Board and the Madison College Student Affairs Council. The groups successfully passed a textbook referendum, approved by a student vote in 2018.
The purpose of the program is to reduce student costs. Instead of purchasing books, students pay a supplemental fee of $7 per credit, covering the rental costs as part of their tuition.
The cost decrease is dramatic compared to the average cost of a textbook, estimated at $105.37, according to EducationData.org.
The program also helps diminish waste by guaranteeing textbook circulation between students for at least three years, according to Deering.
As a Madison College student, remember you are saving a lot. If you see a supplemental cost for the Textbook Rental Program on your tuition bill, have some gratitude.
Keep in mind the cost comparison. Here are how some national averages compare to Madison College’s $7 per credit rental fee.
National Statistics
- $105.37 per college textbook (EducationData.org, 2023)
- Undergrad pays $399-$600 per year on textbooks and supplies (EducationData.org, 2023)
- 63% of students skip buying or renting required textbooks (PIRG.org, 2020)
- 25% of all students needed to work extra hours to pay for course materials (PIRG.org, 2020)
- 11% reported skipping meals to due to material costs (PIRG.org, 2020)