Case Studies
The UTA provides real examples of the challenges presenting our industry as well as, the success that the used and affordable textbook message can bring.
View case studies below to learn about industry tactics that lead to higher prices for students and alternative approaches to combating these tactics. The evidence shows, only used textbooks provide a solution that benefits everyone – students, faculty and bookstores.
Industry Tactics
Examples of expensive or inconvenient approaches in the textbook industry are pervasive – and well documented. We have compiled some case studies of publisher merchandising tactics and other factors that influence the costs of textbooks. These kinds of industry approaches don’t have to continue. The Used Textbook Association is taking action to pursue a viable solution and give back rights to booksellers and their student and faculty customers.
New Editions View examples
Bundling View examples
Adoption View examples For more information you can read the UTA's white paper: Faculty Decisions Drive Textbook Adoption Process.
Approaches to Combating Industry Tactics
One of the Used Textbook Association’s goals is to insure there is a strong supply of used textbooks available to student and faculty customers by effectively communicating their role and value. The following examples reflect some of the alternatives the industry practices. While there are other alternatives - only used textbook buy-back provides an option that benefits everyone.
Custom Textbooks View examples
Electronic Textbooks View examples
Rental Programs View examples For more information you can read the UTA's white paper: Is a Textbook Rental Program Right for Your School?
Used Textbook Solution
The UTA is the leading advocate for the role and value of affordable educational materials in higher education. One of the methods of lowering textbook costs for students is to increase the overall supply of used textbooks. Read more about the UTA solution.