You are responsible for purchasing required textbooks, course materials, online access cards, and supplies in time for the first day of class or as instructed. The cost varies from semester to semester, as well as from one program of study to another. Books and supplies are available from the Austin Community College (ACC) Bookstore as well as other outlets.

Visit Textbooks and Supplies for any updates to the following information.

Buying Textbooks

The ACC Bookstore is managed by Barnes & Noble, with locations at Highland, Riverside, Round Rock, and online at austin.bncollege.com. Each offers a wide selection of textbooks in new, used, rental, and e-book format.

Textbook Locations

All course material and supplies are available at the Highland Campus, Building 4000, suite 1430. Students may order online for home delivery or for in-store pickup.

Textbooks can also be ordered online at austin.bncollege.com and picked up at the Highland Campus Bookstore (for no charge) or delivered (shipping charges apply).

Distance Learning

The Highland Campus bookstore stocks textbooks for all Distance Learning classes.

Buyback Services

Check with the ACC Bookstore about specific buyback policies. Generally, you can sell your textbook back during finals week at the end of the semester if it is in good condition and still required for ACC coursework.

Textbook Returns

A full refund will be given in your original form of payment if textbooks are returned during the first week of classes with the receipt. Books must be in original condition. Check with the ACC Bookstore for more information.

Open Educational Resources (OER) Online Materials

Some course sections are taught with openly licensed high-quality textbooks that are available electronically on the first day. These sections are known as Z-classes because the openly licensed online textbook is available at zero cost to the student. These digital textbooks are typically known as Open Educational Resources (OER). OER course sections (Z-classes) are identified in the course schedule notes when you register for classes, and you can also search for Z-classes when you are planning your schedule.

First Day Digital Learning Materials

Some course sections are taught using discounted digital learning materials that are available the first day of class, known as First Day sections or classes. These digital learning materials cost less than a hard copy textbook and save students money. When you register for a First Day class, the cost of required course materials is added to your tuition and fees bill. These digital texts, also known as Inclusive Content, are uploaded to your Blackboard account for use on the first day of class. There is a fee if you wish to purchase a print copy. Visit First Day Classes for more information.

View Required & Recommended Textbooks & Materials

Once orders have been processed by the ACC Bookstore, you can view required and recommended textbooks and materials selected by your instructor via the following methods.

Note: Contact the instructional program if textbook information is not available for your class.

Alternative Retailers

A student of this institution is not obligated to buy or rent a textbook from a college-affiliated bookstore per House Bill 1096 (81st Legislature of Texas). The same textbook may also be available from an independent retailer, including an online retailer.

Higher Education Opportunity Act – Textbook Provisions

Visit the U.S. Department of Education site to view the text of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (Public Law 110-315), which includes provisions on the costs of textbooks and other instructional materials affecting post-secondary education for students.

Student Advocacy Center Textbook Collection

Students with no outstanding student holds on their library record are eligible to use the Textbook Collection. Textbooks may be borrowed for the duration of the semester and then must be returned to the Library. Books are in limited supply and you should not depend upon this source for your required textbooks. Visit Textbook Collection to learn more.