As the semester wraps up, many students are left wondering what to do with their textbooks.

According to TCU admissions, it is estimated that, on average, students spend about $800 a year on supplies and books that will likely be used for only one semester.

“Textbooks for my TCU classes are so expensive, and I have only ever used them for one semester,” said Teddy Lakoski, a sophomore finance and entrepreneurship major.

There are several ways to get rid of them and possibly recoup some costs.

One option to handle unwanted textbooks is to pass them on to friends or classmates who will be taking the same course in the future.

“I prefer giving my textbooks to friends who are taking the same class after me because reselling often feels like too much work,” said Fyn Neeley, an actuarial science and finance sophomore. “Textbooks are so expensive, and I would rather help others out than go through the hassle of selling them. It is a simple way to support my friends and make sure the books are still useful.”

This can be a cost-effective solution for others, and it fosters a sense of community among students.

Another way to get rid of textbooks is to sell them to resale stores like Half Price Books, which buys used textbooks in good condition for a percentage of their resale value. Though the payout may be lower than the original purchase price, it is a quick and convenient way to earn back some money. However, not all books are accepted, especially outdated editions or those in poor condition.

Another option is to sell the TCU Bookstore your textbooks. The bookstore offers a buyback program at the end of each semester. The buyback price can vary depending on the demand for the book, but it provides a straightforward way to sell textbooks back to the university.

“You can check to see if we will buy your book on our website,” Mike Rosonet, the TCU Bookstore manager, said.  “We can also scan and see if there is an offer for the textbook in store, and then we print out a slip, and you bring it downstairs, and the cashier will give you cash.”

Some students are required to purchase certain textbooks from the bookstore.

“I needed an accounting textbook that was exclusively sold there, and once I finished using it, I sold it back to the bookstore for 50% of its original value. It was nice to get some of my money back for the textbook,” Lakoski said.

The process to sell books can be done online or in person at the bookstore.