Bookstore 1 Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which books I'll need to buy for my classes?

The College Store has a textbook list available at the Information Counter in the Textbook Department. For your convenience, an Online Textbook List is also available, or you may simply visit the Online Textbook Department through the Online Store for easy ordering instructions and textbook listings. [College Store]

How is the textbook list organized?

The textbook list is organized alphabetically by course department, followed by course number and section letter (i.e. MATH 060 A). The textbook list also lets you know if the instructor has listed a textbook as Required (R) or Optional (O).

Who chooses the textbooks for classes?

The instructor of each class selects the textbooks that will be used for the quarter.

What is the difference between a required textbook and an optional textbook?

When a textbook has been labeled as "Required," this means that the instructor of the course has required that students enrolled in the course have this book. When a textbook has been labeled as "Optional," this means that the instructor does not plan to use this book in class, but has listed it as an optional learning supplement for the course.

How do I locate my books on the sales floor?

The textbook department is organized in alphabetical order by department name, and then numerically by course number. However, if you arrive at the store and find you need help, any College Store employee will be happy to help you. When coming to the College Store to purchase your textbooks, please bring a copy of your class registration printout. This will help you purchase the correct books for your class.

Why are textbooks so expensive?

Unlike the mass-produced books that you might find at any general bookstore, textbooks are written by an expert or team of experts and the content of the books takes a great deal of time to develop. A textbook that has an audience of only 20,000 forces publishers to set the price of each book to be much higher to cover the cost of publishing. And as far as the College Store's pricing, our mark-up on textbooks is minimal, just covering the costs of delivering the textbooks to our students.

Do I save money buying a used textbook?

Yes, used textbooks cost approximately 25 percent less. Be sure to check prices and availability of used books at the College Store, as quantities may be limited and the listing of a used book online does not guarantee availability.

What is the difference between a new textbook and a used textbook?

A new textbook is brand new from the publisher, whereas a used textbook has been previously owned/used by at least one other student and may have been highlighted, written in or marked in and may have cosmetic damage to the cover, pages and spine.

Are all textbooks available as used?

The College Store attempts to offer used textbooks whenever possible. When a used textbook is not offered as an option, it is usually for one of these reasons:

• The book is a new edition or was not used at Edmonds Community College or CWU-Lynnwood during the previous quarter.


• The book was originally published for one-time-use due to the nature of the book or its binding.


• The book has been specially packaged with additional materials (i.e. computer media, cassettes, workbook).

When and where can I find used textbooks?

The best time to look is during finals week at the end of the quarter in the College Store and at the Online Store. Look for the yellow USED sticker on the spine. (Please remember to shop early as quantities in the College Store and through the Online Store may be limited.)

How do I get a copy of the textbook I need if there are no more on the shelf?

Check with one of the College Store employees. They may be able to locate a copy for you or let you know when a new shipment is expected. If there are no more copies in the store, you may be able to place a special order.

More Frequently Asked Questions

• Adult Basic Education - Why should I go back to school?
• Advising - How do I make an appointment with an adviser?
• Attending Edmonds CC - What are the deadlines to enroll, apply for financial aid?
• Bookstore 1 - How do I know which books I need to buy for my classes?
• Bookstore 2 - Can I return my textbook for a refund?
• Bookstore 3 - How can I get cash for textbooks I no longer want?
• Career Action Center - Do you place students in jobs and internships?
• Cashier's Office - Which credit cards do you accept?
• Enrollment Services - How do I apply and get enrolled in classes?
• Enrollment Services - How do I get my grades?
• Financial Aid - How do I apply for financial aid?
• Housing - Does Edmonds Community College have housing?
• International Students 1 - Admission
• International Students 2 - Housing
• International Students 3 - School and Classes
• International Students 4 - High School Completion
• International Students 5 - Classes and College Life
• Internships
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• Outreach
• Testing Center
• Transfer Degrees
• Worker Retraining