Competition brings lower prices. But the bookstore, without any official rivals, can essentially claim a monopoly on RPI students.
According to their webpage, the RPI Bookstore marks up textbooks 20 percent. This is not a lot on an item if you’re only paying a few dollars, but when you’re spending at least $300 on books for a semester, you’re handing the bookstore over $60.
This situation is not unique to RPI, however. I’ve had the same experience when taking courses at other schools. However, there are better alternatives to purchasing books at the RPI bookstore.
Alpha Phi Omega, a service fraternity located on the third floor of the Union, provides a convenient meeting place for students trying to get rid of old textbooks and those looking to buy new ones. You are able to sell your old books to other students for whatever price you want—provided it is less than what is charged at the bookstore. APO will store it on their shelves so other students can buy it. When your book sells, APO keeps a reasonable 10 percent for office costs and the rest of the money is sent to you.
As a seller, you’ll get a lot more back than the bookstore offers. As a buyer, you’re guaranteed to find a deal, plus your money is going to a student—not the bookstore.
It’s still the beginning of the semester, if you haven’t already, save yourself some money and check out the Alpha Phi Omega book exchange or take your books there and get the money you deserve when you sell them.
