Online stores alternative to long lines

One biology book, one Microsoft Excel book, one Microsoft Access book and one computer perspectives book. Total at T.I.S. bookstore: $185.79. Total at IU Bookstore: $243.00. Total at www.half.com: $192.43.\nWhile standing in those never-ending lines at the campus bookstore, did you wonder if you could buy that same book online for half the cost?\nIf you did, you weren't alone. Many sites are now available that allow college students to buy new and used books online. According to LexisNexis, online sales from textbooks in the last year alone have increased 35 percent, grossing almost $18 billion. Online textbook sellers like Varsitybooks.com, BigWords.com and half.com offer college students different amenities. BigWords.com offers no shipping charge, while and half.com pride their companies on being hassle-free.\nStudents at IU have questioned local bookstores and wondered if there was money to be saved online rather than in-line.\nSeveral advantages to buying textbooks online seem to be clear. \n"I bought two books from amazon.com and it was a lot cheaper," sophomore Adam Mccuiston said "I like the convenience part." \nBut not all online sellers are less expensive. In fact, a study conducted by the National Association of College Stores found the best deal for textbooks can still be found at campus stores. The study also found buying textbooks online might lead students to spend excess time and money as well.\nOne thing that cannot be guaranteed online is availability. Greg Lloyd, general manager of T.I.S. bookstore, located on Third Street, said bookstores in town are students' best bet on getting the correct books.\n"We have used textbooks in stock, there is no waiting," Lloyd said. "The students' best interests are served on campus where bookstores provide materials on time."\nAnother component that goes overlooked is that IU offers two bookstores on campus for students, whereas most college campuses offer only a single bookstore. \n"IU students are very lucky they have two bookstores on campus that pay attention to getting students' needs met," Lloyd said.\nSophomore Sarah Mason agrees with Lloyd. Mason buys all of her textbooks from T.I.S. \n"I like the guarantee of knowing exactly what I am going to get," Mason said.\nCarolyn Anderson, textbook manager of the IU Bookstore in the Indiana Memorial Union, said the store does not try to raise prices. \n"We try to offer a textbook at the lowest price. Our goal is not to jack up prices," Anderson said. "That's not our business." \nIn fact, textbooks don't generate the revenue most would assume, Anderson said.\n"Contrary to popular belief, college bookstores do not make a profit off of textbooks," Anderson said. "It's the other items in the store."\nBut online textbook sellers would probably disagree. half.com said there are two reasons why the company is the student's best option for buying textbooks: value and selection. Half.com offers 200 million selections and claims to offer textbooks at 40 percent less than retail textbook sellers. \n"We make it easy," Fellers said. "Half.com is a great benchmark for the consumers, the students." Half.com operates just like eBay, buying from sellers and using a password and registration. In general, Fellers said the prices speak for themselves.\nWith a range of options to choose from, the possibilities are endless. However, the ultimate decision to buy online or wait in line is up to students.