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Step 1
Determine as far in advance as possible exactly what textbooks you will need for the new semester. If necessary, try to contact your teachers well in advance of your first day of school. The more time you have before the start of school, the cheaper your books may be since there will be fewer other students competing for the same books.
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Step 2
The next step seems trivial, but very important. Note the EXACT details of what books you will need. Title is not enough. Be sure you have the proper edition and the proper copywrite/publication date, etc. Very, very important.
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Step 3
Next, search on line auction sites and on line stores for the textbooks you need. Looks for used books you can buy cheaply. Be very careful to be sure the description of the book, title, pages, copyright, edition, etc. matches exactly. Be careful the book is in a condition you are OK with. Ask questions if you aren't sure.
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Step 4
Check postings on your college website and other college websites for used books. This can be a great resource. Don't be afraid to negotiate a lower price either. Especially if you are buying more than one book from the same person. Again, ask questions to determine if the textbook is correct and if the condition is right for you.
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Step 5
If you can't find the books you want, or if you just want more options, then post the titles you are looking for on your school website and school bulletin board. Again, the sooner you do this the better as you will be competing with less students for the same textbooks
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Step 6
Lastly, if all else fails, get to your school bookstore as early as possible. Try to get there well before the lines begin. All student bookstores carry used books that students sell back at the end of each semester. These books, while cheaper than new books, will still be expensive so do this after you've exhausted your other possibilities.
