Textbook Rentals
The average student spends over $500 on textbooks. We think that's too much so we started a textbook rental program to do something about it.
How renting helps students reduce the cost of education:
- Renting gives students another option to meet their individual financial needs
- Renting could lower your cost of textbooks by up to 50%
- This program encourages instructors to choose the same book for multiple semesters. This lowers the cost both of rented books and purchased books by giving an alternative to more expensive new editions.
- Students who rent are NEVER stuck with books they don't want at the end of the semester.
How do you rent your books?
Come to the second floor of The Bookstore and we'll walk you through the rental process. You'll need a credit card in order to get signed up, but this is just to secure your rentals. The rental period is the same length as the semester; when your finals are over, simply return the book to The Bookstore. We'll send out reminder emails on when to return your books so you won't be assessed replacement costs and fees. If you fail to return a book, your credit card will be charged the replacement cost of the book, plus a $15.00 fee, so pay attention to the rental return dates. Renting saves you money, time, and shipping costs.
Common Questions:
Q: How does the rental program work?
It's easy. Select your books and look to see if they're available for rental. If you do not see a rental option, your book is not available for rental at this time. If you decide to rent your book, you'll need to sign a rental agreement, pay the rental charge, and secure the rental using a credit card. At the end of the semester you will need to return the book to The Bookstore.
Q: Why should I rent from The Bookstore rather than online renters?
When you rent from The Bookstore, you can rest assured you are getting the right book. We communicate directly with your instructors and order the books they specifically request. We offer competitive pricing, easy rental returns, and you can save shipping charges by opting to pick-up your books in-store. When the semester is over, simply return the book to The Bookstore rather than shipping it back.
Q: What if I don't return the book?
If you don't return your book on time, your credit card will be charged the replacement cost of the book, in addition to a $15.00 fee. If we are unable to charge your credit card, the replacement cost and fees will be sent to collections and future rentals will not be allowed.
Q: Why aren't all books available for rental in the store?
In order for a rental program to be successful, the book needs to be used for multiple semesters. We have selected books which we are assured will be used next semester, either on this campus or elsewhere in the country.
Q: Is renting a book a better deal than purchasing it?
We offer the option of purchasing a book (new or used) or renting it. It is up to you to decide which option best meets your educational needs. If you plan to use the book for more than one semester, purchasing may be your best option. If you don't plan to use the book after this semester, renting may be the best option.
Q: What if I drop a class or don't need the book once the semester begins?
Our textbook rental program follows the same last day to return deadline and policy as purchasing the book. Rentals after that date are considered "rented" and refunds will not be given for the original rental fee. You must still return the book to avoid replacement fees and/or charges.
Q: Why do you need a credit card now? Is it charged when I pick up the book?
The only charge associated when renting the textbook is the rental fee. Your credit card will not be charged any additional fees unless the book is not returned at the end of the semester. We require you to use a credit card to ensure that the book is returned or that we can assess a replacement charge and fee of $15.00 if you don't return the book.
Q: Is highlighting okay in a rental book? What if I spill coffee on the book or my dog uses it as a chew toy?
Some highlighting is okay, but excessive highlighting is not. The book must be usable by another person, so liquid damage, chemical spills, fire, tooth marks, or spine damage is not acceptable.
Other questions? Email us at textbooks@montanabookstore.com or call 406-243-1234 or 888-333-1995.
Book Rental Agreement
