Should You Rent Your Textbooks?
Renting is a smart move if the following apply:
- You don’t need extras like access codes, CDs, or workbooks
(These are usually missing from rentals and used books. If they’re required, rentals won’t be available.) - You only need the book for one term
- You won’t need the book again after class ends
- You’re okay taking care of it and returning it in good shape
You’ll return it on time
- You want to save cash by paying only for the time you use it
Heads up: Rentals are not available for students outside the continental U.S.
How Renting Works
Here’s what to expect when you rent:
- Rental options appear at checkout—choose a period that covers your course (usually ends 1 week after finals)
- Credit/debit card required as backup—even if school funds are used
- Light highlighting and notes = OK
- But if the book comes back damaged (wet, torn, missing pages), you’ll be charged full price
- Damage? Report it within 30 days of receiving the book
- Check your due date:
- Go to My Orders > Manage My Rentals
- We’ll send reminder emails starting 1 month before the due date
- Need more time or want to keep it?
- You can extend or buy the rental in your account—do this before the due date to avoid late fees
- Return on time using the free UPS label in your account
- It must be scanned into the UPS system by your due date
- Don’t mix returns:
- Rentals and buybacks must be shipped separately with their own labels