08/20/2026
The Libraries versus the bookstore...which one should you go to?
Go to the Libraries if you're looking to borrow items for free! You've already paid for access to the libraries in your tuition and fees, so use them! You can borrow books, get research help, and explore more than what's on the shelves.
Go to the bookstore if you need to purchase textbooks for your class, buy some supplies, or to purchase that hoodie you'll wear every day for the next four years. While you can rent some textbooks from the bookstore, they still cost money.
Please remember that the Libraries do not purchase all textbooks. Sometimes we can help you borrow those items from other libraries for free, but not always. If textbook costs are a concern to you, ask library staff or your instructor about Course Reserves, which is where instructors choose to place part or all of their class materials on reserve at the Libraries. Courses that use Open Educational Resources (OER) are another great way to save on textbook costs.
Image Descriptions:
1. A stack of books. The text above reads, "The Libraries versus the bookstore. They both have books, but they're not the same thing..."
2. A patron pulling a book off a shelf. The text below reads, "You borrow stuff - books, movies, even laptops. Costs $0 (unless you forget to bring it back). Also has: study spots, research help, and online resources."
3. A woman browsing t-shirts. The text below reads, "You buy stuff - textbooks, supplies, and campus merch. Costs real money. Also has: decor, mugs, and that hoodie you'll basically live in."
4. A student's hands on an open textbook. The text above reads, "Not all textbooks are at the University Libraries. We don't buy every required text. Sometimes we can get those items from other libraries, but not always. Some instructors place items on Course Reserves. If you need your own textbook, go to the bookstore. If you need to use it for a short time, ask the Libraries or your instructor about Course Reserves."
5. A student holding two books on top of their head. The text above reads, "Need to read? Libraries. Need to own? Bookstore. Luckily, campus has both!"
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