What are the deadlines to submit textbook requests?
- Spring Semester: October 15th
- Summer Sessions: March 15th
- Fall Semester: April 15th
Why do my textbook requests have to be submitted so far in advance of the upcoming semester?
The bookstore asks for textbook requests by the given dates for three reasons. First, the bookstore staff verifies that all information on each request is correct. Any problems or irregularities are discussed with the instructor or department liaison. Second, the bookstore attempts to locate as many used books as possible. Early requests provide the bookstore a better chance in locating used copies from national used book wholesalers. Finally, timely requests can increase the amount paid to students during the end of term buyback period. The buyback value is determined by future demand.
I cannot meet the textbook adoption deadline. What should I do?
The bookstore recognizes that not all requests can meet the adoption deadlines. New classes, sections, and instructor changes often come after the adoption deadlines. These requests should be made as soon as the information is available.
My class doesn't require a textbook. Why do I need to notify the Bookstore of this?
The recently revised Higher Education Opportunity Act has several provisions that affect college bookstore operations. One of these provisions states that bookstores must provide all textbook information on their website so that students will know the course requirements at the time they register for classes. In order to comply, the WCU Bookstore must gather all course materials information as soon as it is available from instructors.
What is the difference in a purchase book and a Rental book?
There is only one rental book per course number and this book may not be a consumable product. All classes under that course number will be issued the same text. Purchase textbooks are adopted by section and may have several texts adopted.
Please feel free to contact Book Rental at 828-227-3610 if you have other questions.
Why do graduate students not get Rental books?
Graduate students do not pay a rental fee and are not included in the Book Rental Program.
How do I request Graduate/Supplemental/Distance Learning textbooks for an upcoming semester?
Graduate/Supplemental/Distance Learning textbook request must be submitted each semester. There are no standing orders for PURCHASE textbooks.
Textbook requests can be submitted online here.
- Enter your Banner ID Number and Pin Number then click on Request Access. Contact the IT Services Helpdesk at 7487 for assistance if you are unable to authenticate.
- Your textbook request form now appears. This form allows you to enter five titles per course. You may use the tab key to move between fields. Enter the required information in all fields. Incomplete or inaccurate information will delay the processing of your request. By clicking on SUBMIT the bookstore will receive your request via e-mail and you will be assigned a request number. Please make a note of this number for future reference.
- You can also use the hard copy form here.
- We do not except e-mail or phone textbook requests.
What can instructors do to help lower the cost of textbooks for their students?
An easy way for students to save 25% on textbooks is to have a plentiful supply of used books available. Receiving textbook requests early allows the Bookstore to offer students used books obtained through our buyback program or through a textbook wholesaler. Late requests often do not allow us to pursue the option of used books.
If a textbook has been requested with a particular ISBN because it offers a "free" web access code or a "free" study aid, we may not be able to buy used copies from either the students or wholesalers. If these optional materials are not necessary for course success, please include that information when ordering the book. Always keep in mind that the bookstore orders ONLY what you have requested. We will not order a less expensive version of the book unless given the permission to do so. Package deals which include "free" study guides often result in no used copies of the book available to be sold in the future and the student being prevented from selling the item back to the bookstore at the end of the semester. Items that require a single user license agreement are often designed to reduce the availability of used stock.
Why does the bookstore not order 100% of my class enrollment?
The bookstore bases order quantities on several factors. Students shop at a variety of sources. In addition to WCU Bookstore, some students will purchase their materials from online vendors. Course history, past sales data, and current enrollment figures help the store ensure that sufficient copies are ordered. The Bookstore strives to maintain stock of every text offered on campus. However, if we sell out, we will special order a copy for any student who needs to purchase a book.
Why does the Bookstore return course materials to the publisher? When does publisher return occur?
Most publishers and distributors require bookstores to pay for course materials within 30 days of receipt. The bookstore remains self-sustaining by being fiscally responsible to the University. Unsold materials need to still be paid for within the time frame allotted, unless they are returned to the respective publisher or distributor. Publisher returns generally begin about one month after the start of classes. The bookstore will retain titles that have been requested for a future semester.
Where do store profits go?
WCU Bookstore is University-owned and totally self-supporting. It receives no tax money or subsidies. Profits are contributed annually to WCU Academic/Athletic Scholarship Funds.
What is the University's Policy on Copyright?
The University policy regarding copyright can be found here.
Who should I contact about a textbook related issue?