Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability
Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability

Options Exist to Address the Rising Cost of Textbooks for Florida's College Students

Report 08-29, April 2008




Report Summary

  • The cost of college textbooks and required course materials has increased faster than inflation, and averages about $120 per course for common undergraduate classes. Textbook costs vary by discipline, and are highest for life sciences, physical sciences, business, and mathematics courses. Prices are typically a little lower from on-line and privately owned bookstores than on-campus stores.
  • Most of Florida's community colleges and universities have taken steps to address textbook costs, including providing faculty guidelines, providing library access to required books, and sponsoring buy-back programs. Some states have also enacted legislation to help contain textbook costs, including mandating disclosure of prices and edition changes, requiring postsecondary institutions to adopt textbook policies, and prohibiting faculty from receiving payments from publishers for requiring specific textbooks and course materials.


Related Reports
  1. Florida Colleges and Universities Are Addressing Textbook Affordability
    Report 10-49 July 2010
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
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