We’re listening. Tell us what you think about the NEIU Library.

A student comments:

I wanted to make a suggestion that the Northeastern library purchase at least ONE copy of the textbooks required for every class at Northeastern.

Upon learning on the first day of class what books are required, many times it is cheaper to purchase the book online than at the schools bookstore. However cheap, buying a book online means it can take many days for the book to arrive. It would be nice in this time frame, if I could go to Northeastern’s library, and pick up a Reference copy of the textbook I need and make photocopies of at least the first one or two chapters to keep me on track with the class until my textbook online order arrives. I think this would benefit Northeastern students who choose to purchase books online to save money. Instead of a week or so of not having the textbook at all, at least they can be sure they can at least make some photocopies from the library to keep them on track. Thank you for your time!

Dave Green, Associate University Librarian for Collections and Information Services replies:

The librarians recognize the difficulties students face with what has been designated as the “Textbook Crisis.” Last semester, I met with a representative of the Student Government and we briefly discussed this issue.  I certainly would be interested in continuing that discussion with the Student Government and others to create a task force to find ways of minimizing the impact of the skyrocketing prices of textbooks.

Unfortunately, if the library purchased a copy of each textbook at the start of the semester, we would not have any money to buy any other books for the library. Traditionally, university libraries have pursued purchasing what is called “primary materials” which would support research by students and faculty.  This actually excludes textbooks.  In fact, most university libraries formally state in their collection policies that except in special cases, textbooks will not be purchased by the library.

Still, there may be a role that the library can play in helping solve or at least reduce this issue for students.  We are certainly willing to partner with others in the university to come up with some possible solutions.