A Letter from the University Store Manager
On behalf of the entire University Store staff, let me take this occasion to welcome you to Monmouth University. As manager of the University Store for more than 20 years, I have seen Monmouth grow both in the quantity and quality of its students. I commend you on selecting Monmouth University to continue your education.
The first experience in a college bookstore may certainly be daunting! Many parents, especially those who have been out of school for many years, get “sticker shock” at the price of books. And yes, there will be lines getting books the first few days of class, despite our best efforts to minimize them. Below, I hope to answer a few of the many questions we are asked at the start of each year to help you.
Remember, we are here as a service to the students, so feel free to call the University Store at 732-571-3453 or send e-mail to bookstore@monmouth.edu with questions and concerns. We all look forward to serving you from your orientation to the day you put on your cap and gown. It will go quickly!
Bill Rainey
University Store Manager
How do I know what books I will need?
Our Textbook Concierge Service eliminates that worry! All you need to know is your course schedule – we take care of the rest. Before the semester starts you can reserve and pay for books via our Web site – mubookstore.monmouth.edu. When you come to school you will go to the Online Order Pickup Counter to pick up your pre-packed/pre-paid books.
Once the semester starts you can no longer reserve online but you can always come to the Textbook Counter, give us your schedule and we pull the correct books for you.
If you would like to see a book list prior to coming to campus, you can view it on WebAdvisor. Next to each class and section is a link which says "books." Clicking the link will show course materials that have been ordered by faculty. You can also go directly to our Web site and click “Textbooks.” Please remember that course materials are subject to change. If faculty have not yet ordered their books, the link will advise you.
Can I buy books online from the Store?
Yes! Reservations for in-store pick up can be made beginning approximately two weeks before each semester begins. You can use the link on the Welcome Center home page or go to mubookstore.monmouth.edu. Please read all the instructions carefully before placing orders.
Can I rent books?
Yes! Certain titles are available for rent. When you reserve online, if the book is available to rent you will see a rental price. If you are purchasing in-store, the cashier will let you know if the book you are purchasing is available to rent. Make sure you read and understand the rental agreement – it can be found on our Web site, posted in-store, and printed on your receipt.
When can I get my books?
Every effort is made to have all the books available two weeks before fall term begins, and one week before spring and summer terms. Because of publisher delays or late hiring or changes in faculty, usually we have about 90% in at that time.
Can I sell my books back?
Yes! We hold Buyback at the end of every semester.
Can I buy used books?
Students love used books and we do too! The University Store attempts to get as many used books as possible, but unfortunately certain books are not available used from us or any other source. This includes new editions, books with access codes for online components, and custom books. Used books are sold at 25% less than the new price.
Do you sell e-books?
Some, but not all, of our books are available as e-books. At this time they are not supported by e-readers (Kindle, Nook, iPad, etc) but are to be downloaded to a PC or MAC. If a book is available as an e-book you will see EBK before the title.
How can I pay for my books?
The University Store accepts cash, checks (with a valid school ID or driver’s license), Visa, American Express, MasterCard, and Discover. Excess financial aid funds may be used for textbooks and supply purchases for a limited period at the start of each term. Specific questions regarding financial aid should be addressed to the Financial Aid Office. YOU MUST PRESENT ID TO PAY WITH FINANCIAL AID.
The University Store also has available a Gift Card that essentially acts as a debit card. Parents can place an amount on it using cash or credit card. This is good only in the University Store. (Dining Service’s declining balance is not honored.)
What if I purchase a book that I do not need?
Books purchased from the University Store are returnable until the second Friday of classes for fall and spring semesters, and until the end of the first five days of the start of summer classes, with a receipt and in original condition. It is the student’s responsibility to ascertain upon going to class if they purchased the correct books. If books are incorrect, return them at once!
Professors do change books, and frequently there are instructor changes at the last minute. SAVE YOUR RECEIPT. If you drop a class, you must return books within two days of the drop, but not later than the tenth week of class. You will get an updated return policy when you purchase your books.
Should I write my name in my books?
When you first buy the book, NO! Go to class first and make sure the book you purchased is the correct one for the class. Then, write your name in it, but for security purposes, we also suggest you pick a page number and write it on the same page of every book. If your books are ever lost or stolen, report it to the police and the University Store immediately. To even have a chance of getting the book back, it must have identifying marks in it.
When can I buy my class ring?
The University, through the University Store, contracts with national ring companies to promote their rings. Each company normally holds two to three “ring days” per semester, and you can purchase your ring anytime after the start of your junior year.
What are the University Store hours?
During the year when classes are in session, we are open:
- Monday through Thursday: 8:45 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Friday: 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Saturday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Summer hours and hours when classes are not in session vary, so please call the store or check our Web site before coming in. Hours are extended the first two weeks of each semester. We are generally open on “move-in” days, even if they fall on Sundays or holidays. Again, please call for exact hours.
How can I find out about Store events, sales and news?
In addition to sending e-mails to your student account, we are on Facebook – Monmouth University Bookstore, Twitter @MUBookstoreNJ, and blogging at monmouthustore.wordpress.com.
