Factors Influencing Price

• The price that is offered for a specific textbook during buyback can be influenced by many factors. One common issue is whether the book is going to be used for the next semester. Older editions may not be used anymore, which causes the price to go down or makes it unsaleable. Books that were purchased new typically have a higher buyback value when the time comes. Some books come with software that needs to be included in order for the set to be complete. Custom edition books made for a specific school or instructor may not be eligible either. Damage to the book that is beyond normal wear can also influence the condition and price of the textbook.
  
  

Book Damage

• Some damage to textbooks is unavoidable, unless the book is not used at all during the semester. Normal wear is acceptable and should not affect the price of the buyback. Normal wear would be pencil marks, casual highlighting, bent corners and possibly a few scratches. Each company has their own rules on book damage. It is better to mark in the book as little as possible to ensure top dollar for your text. Damage outside of normal wear can include things like water damage, stains, and torn or missing pages.
  
  

Campus Bookstore

• College campus bookstores typically hold certain days that they will buy back books. This is a good option because of convenience and most of the time they give cash on the spot. When the book is in high demand, they are more apt to purchase the book from you.
  
  

Online Retailers

• Options have expanded for buying and selling textbooks given the communication available by the internet. Some online retailers offer textbook buybacks on a continual basis. It is better to check multiple websites to get the best price possible. Shipping charges are usually included and payment may take longer than visiting the campus bookstore. An advantage of using online retailers is that it may be possible that an older edition will be eligible for buyback that may have not been at the campus bookstore. Some books that can't be used again due to excessive damage can be recycled at some of these retailers.
  
  

Private Selling

• There are times when a textbook will be eligible for buyback at either the campus bookstore or an online retailer. Books that are in good condition can sometimes be sold directly to other students taking the same course. Students can often post flyers around school or online posting forums to generate interest. Often you can sell your book for a higher price than through the buyback and the other student can get a book for a lower price than buying it from the bookstore.