The Bookstore looks nice, but everything is overpriced. The cost of most used textbooks here are more expensive than BRANDNEW textbooks online and elsewhere. I seriously do not know why the prices are so inflated. I only came here because there was one book that my professor wrote that was only found at the bookstore. That has been the one and only time I have ever bought anything from the bookstore in my 4 years at ISU. I did a calculation one semester and if I had bought all my books at the bookstore it would be upwards of $ 700+ for the semester. I bought my textbooks from a combination of Abe Books, Ebay, and Amazon and ended up paying less than $ 200 for all my books, and I take 18 credits every semester, sometimes 21. My advice is buy your books online or at other stores because the prices are heavily inflated at the bookstore.
AJ K.
Rating des Ortes: 2 Ames, IA
Give me a break, I haven’t found a cheaper book at the book store in 2 years. 1) Books are all overpriced 2) They give you squat after the semester to return them 3) cyclone apparel overpriced The only reason the bookstore gets 2 stars is for offering employment to people I know. Other than that, it is no good. Chances are they will sell you a book for $ 125 and either 1) not take it back because the prof decided not use it again or 2) give you $ 20 for it and then sell it for $ 95 next semester. Amazon people, amazon.
Eric B.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Pleasant Hill, CA
Now how did I let Matt E. beat me to this review punch? As it turns out, I previously posted something on the architecturally handsome Iowa State Memorial Union. I was recently in Bookstore on the first day of the the 2010ISU Fall Term and left after losing any hope that I’d be checked out within an hour. Normally, I’ll park in the structure, enter on the Computer section side, browse the art, stationary, and book areas, and then buy some refreshments at the mini-mart before heading off to Campus Town. Matt is right that this recently renovated bookstore is impressive. It’s also fun to wander around and contemplate the possibilities. However, as a proud Hawkeye Alum, I sometimes feel that I’m «sleeping» with the enemy, and should get my butt in the car and drive to Iowa City.
Matt E.
Rating des Ortes: 4 Story City, IA
Recently renovated this is an impressive bookstore. As an alum, my interests gravitate to sentimental items and clothing that help me stay connected to my alma mater. The ISU Bookstore has the best selection of ISU clothing, hats and cardinal and gold gear in the country. I’ve found their selection to be far deeper than even that through the athletic department’s outfitter. Really nice facility, almost ostentatious considering it was renovated in the early 90s. Deep selection of great ISU items and easily accessible off of one of the main thoroughfares in Ames. GOSTATE.