EL RENO-Starting this fall, students at Redlands Community College will be able to rent their textbooks instead of purchasing. The new Rent-A-Text program can result in savings of 50 percent or more on textbooks.

For example, an English textbook will cost $64.50 if purchased new; a used copy will cost $48.50. The rental book will only cost $29.03.

Bookstore manager Melody Martinez has already had many students take advantage of the program. "We are excited for the opportunity to offer text for rent to our students. We are here for our students and want to do what we can to make college more affordable to attend."

Participation in Rent-A-Text is easy. Students have the option to rent books online or in the bookstore. But they must first create an account at www.efollett.com. Not all books will be available for rental.

The rental program will allow students to highlight and take notes all within the normal wear and tear associated with coursework. Students also may use financial aid to pay the rental fee. Students will have the choice to buy their textbook at the end of the term if they want to keep the book.

By purchasing or renting through the campus bookstore, students will be assured that they will receive the correct edition of the books they need.

In addition to the lower upfront cost, students will also not have to go through the trouble of trying to resell textbooks at the end of the semester.

Rent-A-Text is being offered through Redlands' partnership with Follett Higher Education Group, which operates the bookstore.

For the most up-to-date list of Follett-managed campuses and virtual bookstores planning to offer Rent-A-Text this fall, please visit www.rent-a-text.com. The site provides additional information about Rent-A-Text, including videos from students who have benefited from the program, a list of FAQs and a faculty resource section.