3 Reasons Why Textbook Adoption Matters… A Lot

Adopting your textbook is a quick and simple step that makes a big impact — it helps your students save money, plan ahead, and access the materials they need to succeed. Whether you're selecting a new textbook, confirming an existing one, declaring that no materials are required, or highlighting that your course uses free Open Educational Resources (OER), adopting your textbook by the registrar’s adoption deadline matters… a lot. If you’re already convinced and just need to know how to do it, check out our textbook adoption guide. If you’d like to learn more about why textbook adoption matters, keep reading!

• The GSU bookstore works with publishers to find the lowest price options for your textbooks, but they need time to do this. Early adoption means lower priced textbooks.
• If you’re using a free textbook (OER), filling out the textbook adoption form lets students know up front they won't have to buy a book. They'll definitely appreciate knowing that!
• The earlier that students know what books are required, the more time they have to explore their options. Maybe their roommate took the class last year and can pass along their book!

• Timely textbook adoption allows students to plan and budget, helping to ensure that they have the required materials by the first day of class.
• Students who want to use their financial aid to buy books have to make their purchases through the bookstore. Early adoption ensures there is enough stock for all registered students.

• If you aren't requiring students to buy a textbook, we still want you to adopt "No Materials Required" or "Using OER Material" so we can keep track of how many classes at GSU are using low- and no-cost materials.
• Adopting on time lets us track the impact across campus of course redesign grants and fellowships related to expanding low/no cost textbooks.

Adopting your textbook just takes a couple minutes and makes a big difference. If you haven’t already adopted your textbooks for Summer 2025, please make it happen right away. For Fall 2025, the deadline is April 14, but the sooner the better! If you need help, check out our textbook adoption guide for step-by-step instructions.