As the beginning of the school year nears, the time to venture to your school's bookstore is here. There are advantages and disadvantages to purchasing your textbooks before the school year starts. Often times teachers have labeled the main book as "required" while there are many others that are "recommended". I certainly think it is okay to wait until you get to class and find out why the professor has recommended these books. The required books though, I think you should buy as soon as possible. This way the likelihood that you will be able to purchase a used textbook is much greater. Yes, sometimes, used textbooks contain old notes and other annoying writing/highlighting, but buying used can save you $40, depending on how expensive the book is. So, you will have to weigh your choices, but the earlier you buy the more choices you may have.
Also, keep in mind that different classes may require the same textbooks. The tags on the shelves should state what other courses require the same textbooks and you can then look for the best used textbook in different locations in the same store.
I would often scope out the required textbooks and then shop for them online. There are several websites online that sell textbooks, and have specific requirements for selling used textbooks (they don't sell textbooks that were not taken care of). It would really help for you to check out www.froogle.com, the shopping site run by google that searches all sites for the best prices. What you should make sure of is to search for the ISBN number of your textbooks. This alleviates any possible confusion over which edition you should purchase.
There is a possibility that your professor wrote the book himself and is therefore only available in your school bookstore. Count yourself very lucky, usually these textbooks are much cheaper.
Alright, you have your textbooks, you went on your shopping trip to get all your other school supplies, and now you're anxiously waiting for school to start. Well enjoy yourself!
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