THE PENDULUM

Textbook rentals are becoming increasingly popular among college students seeking a more economic method of getting their books. Long-term library Web sites are providing students with what many consider an appealing alternative to the pricy tabs at university bookstores. 

Chegg.com is one of many Web sites that is bucking the textbook-buying tradition. This site has distinguished itself from competitors with its devotion to the environment. For every book you rent, sell, buy or donate, the people at Chegg.com plant a tree. To date, more than 50 city blocks of trees have been planted. 

Chegg.com’s appeal is both environmentally and economically attractive. 

For example, the normal price of an international relations book is listed at $108.33. On Chegg.com, it was rented for $29.43 on a semester-long basis. 

Although renting textbooks may be an appealing, economical option for some students, others still prefer the more traditional route. 

“I like owning my textbooks,” junior Luca Tolan said. “It’s just so much more convenient to come here and buy them. Plus, I can sell them at the end of the year and get some money back.” 

Tolan, who is a business major, says he spends an average of $500 to $600 on books every semester. He estimates that each book costs him about $120. Tolan has always purchased his books at Elon’s campus shop. 

While renting textbooks from sites like Chegg.com can help students save money, the process does require a little more time. Students must go online, order their textbooks, print out a return slip and mail the books back at the end of the semester. 

Although some students are hesitant about renting books, others may find it to be the financial or environmental solution they are looking for.

Textbook rental sites:

Chegg.com

Bookrenter.com

Campusbookrentals.com

Neighborrow.com/campus

Ourshelves.com