Bookstore

Find textbooks, supplies, and swag on campus

Answers to your textbook questions

Q: How much will my textbooks cost?

A: After you register for classes, visit the bookstore's website Links to an external site. to view your book list and get a rough idea of how much you will need to spend on textbooks. Don't wait until the last minute!

Q: How can I save money on textbooks?

A: There are several ways to save money on your books:

Rent your books. Many titles from the bookstore are available to rent, and you can still highlight and underline in them. The bookstore will remind you to return them at the end of the semester.
Try used or digital books. Many of the bookstore's titles are available as used books and as digital books, both of which are less expensive than a new book. You should shop early if you plan on purchasing used books, since these are often the first to sell out.

Q: Can I order my textbooks online?

A: Yes, you can order your textbooks online through the bookstore. You can choose to pick up your books in the store or have them sent to you, and shipping time is 1-2 days. You can also shop around at other online retailers like Amazon, Chegg, Thriftbooks, and AbeBooks, to name just a few. It's important that you use the textbooks' ISBN (International Standard Book Number) to make sure you are purchasing the correct edition. If you accidentally purchase a different edition, your book may have different page numbers and even different contents! The IU Columbus bookstore will price match against Amazon and most other competitors, so you can purchase your books at the bookstore and know you're getting the correct edition and the best price.

Q: Can I pay for my textbooks with financial aid?

A: There is a possibility that financial aid could cover the cost of your textbooks. To make this possible, follow these steps:

Complete a Title IV form at One.IU. Links to an external site.
Deposit funds in your CrimsonCash account Links to an external site. by December 20, 2024 and bill the deposit to your bursar account.
Use your CrimsonCard to purchase your textbooks.
Pay your bursar bill using your financial aid. Financial aid will cover your essential expenses, including tuition and fees, first. If you have additional financial aid funds left over, it could pay for your CrimsonCard deposits made by December 20, 2024. Email finaidco@iu.edu to learn more.

Show your Crimson Pride!

We are proud to be IU Columbus, and we love to show our Crimson Pride! The bookstore offers a wide selection of spirit wear so you can prepare your wardrobe for Welcome Week and beyond. A small sample is available online, but we recommend you visit the bookstore in person to see the full selection.