We all know how expensive adulting is. Being a broke college student is the absolute worst. My freshman year, I decided to focus solely on my academics and getting used to life away from home, so I stopped working. This was very weird for me since I had been working since I was 15; so, I was ecstatic when I got the opportunity to start working at the University of Denver bookstore this summer. Here I answer a few of the most common questions that people have asked me about our campus bookstore.
What are the benefits of working at the bookstore?
The obvious answer to this question is the employee discount, which is 20 percent on supplies and 10 percent on everything else (even textbooks!). Besides the discount, the experience of working at our university’s bookstore is very rewarding. It is one of the centerpieces of our campus, and such a lively, fulfilling place to work at. Although it sounds cheesy, that’s the greatest benefit.
What can I buy at the bookstore besides textbooks?
The bookstore sells a lot of wonderful, unique things. Apart from the shelves and shelves of textbooks, you can browse through hundreds of general books for entertainment reading, University of Denver merch, health and beauty products, school supplies, backpacks, cards, so many snacks, and much more! Not only this, but Apple lovers can spend some time in the official Apple store. Even if you don’t end up buying anything, you can spend hours looking at everything the store offers.
When is the best time to purchase textbooks?
Everyone has walked past the bookstore during the first couple of weeks of the quarter and seen what appears to be an endless line of people waiting to checkout. This can look daunting, and definitely makes shopping for textbooks a lot less fun. My recommendation? If at all possible, come into the bookstore a week or two before school starts and get all your shopping done then; you will most likely not have to worry about items being out of stock and waiting in long lines. Can’t physically come to the store early? Order online ahead of time, and we will have the order ready for you when you arrive.
Can I return my textbooks?
On any regular week, we will only accept textbook returns up to 48 hours after purchase with a receipt. However, at the beginning of each quarter, you are able to return your textbooks with a receipt up until a week after the quarter begins in case you decide to drop classes. Be careful, though. Most textbooks can’t be returned if they are removed from the shrink wrap.
What services does the bookstore offer?
Not only can you shop at the bookstore for a variety of items, you can also receive some other services from the bookstore, including printing and binding services and technology help.
Does the bookstore accept FLEX?
Yes!!! Bring your student ID with your preloaded FLEX money and start spending away.
When and how can I get a discount?
A common misconception that people have is that students get discounts, similar to faculty and staff. However, this isn’t true… unless you scout out the deals! While it may seem like the bookstore items are pricey, you can get really good prices by shopping at the right times. Clearance prices are really amazing, especially on that hoodie you have been wanting but didn’t have the cash for at full price. Periodically scanning the clearance for both clothing and other miscellaneous items (yes, including makeup!) is awesome. Sometimes, on random days throughout the quarter, there will be store-wide discounts on select items, and this usually includes clearance. That $40 laptop cover you have been eyeing may be on sale for just a few bucks during one of these sales. The best way to stay in touch with these deals is by signing up for the University of Denver Bookstore e-mails.
Have any other pressing questions about the University of Denver bookstore? Any one of the employees would be happy to answer them; just stop by and ask! We’re friendly, I promise.