Monday, October 13, 2008

Sales of textbooks to students - emerging trend?

Is it the norm that independent schools are moving to sales of
textbooks, as opposed to lending, to their students? A recent member
to our Board thinks so and is advocating such a move. And, if they
are, would the school library be responsible for such sales?

I do not believe that it's an emerging trend which is why I'm
soliciting your input. As I have only the experience of two
independent schools under my belt I would appreciate it if you could
provide me with the names of each school your familiar with and
indicate of they lend of sell textbooks to their students. I will
gladly summarize for the list if interest warrants.

In my case, if our new Board member holds sway, not only will I sell
the books outright, but we will also offer to repurchase the textbooks
at year end using a formula which will offer them a maximum credit of
20%, 40%, 60% or 80% depending upon the age and condition of the book.

Since I am a solo librarian working without so much as an aide, it is
my position that there will not be sufficient time in the school
calendar for me to put on the hat of textbook vendor and librarian.

What do you all think?


Carl W Feucht
Librarian
Indianhead International School
Gyeonggi-Do, South Korea

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