Frequently Asked Questions

General Course Materials FAQ

My textbook was listed as $0.00 on the website when I placed my order, why is there a charge on my method of payment?
We do not price course materials until we receive them from the publisher. If a textbook listed as "required" or "optional" under one of your courses shows on the website without a price, we are still waiting for the materials. Your method of payment will be charged once the item arrives and is priced.

I chose eBook as my method of shipping, but shipping was replaced to UPS Ground; where is my item?
If your textbook is listed as "Access Code Card", you will not receive an email with a link to your textbook online. Access Code Cards are physical cards that must be scratched off by the student to reveal the access code, and then entered into the website using the directions on the card. Physical textbooks that do not offer an eBook option during the selection of course materials when buying are only offered as textbooks and must be shipped or picked up in person at the Main Campus bookstore.

I selected a USED textbook, but was sent a NEW textbook and charged the higher price; why would you do this?
When making your selections for textbooks, a box appears in the checkout process that states “Our inventory changes rapidly, and we need to know your preference. If you checked the box that states you will accept a replacement (New or Used depending on your original selection), we will make a substitution and charges charge you accordingly.

What is direct digital access?
Direct Digital Access (DDA) provides links to course materials within CANVAS.

How much does Direct Digital Access cost?
The cost of your DDA content varies depending on course materials chosen by the instructor for the course. For eTexts, course content is priced about 50-70% less than the average textbook. For courseware, content is about 25% less expensive.

How will I access materials?
Your instructor will place a link in your course module allowing you to obtain access to your course materials.

I’m not a fan of digital textbooks, can I opt out?
You can both see your opt-out date and opt-out from the VitalSource course materials link on your instructor's Canavs page.
Sure. Opt out within the opt out period (this varies by semester and is based on your class start date). If you choose to opt out, you will be refunded for your digital content, and your access will be turned off.
Please note: If you choose to opt out of your digital content, you are responsible for obtaining the required materials on your own. The Bookstore DOES NOT carry physical textbooks for DDA courses.
Are print books available?
That depends. For some courses, low cost looseleaf print books are available. Search for your course on our website. If a print upgrade is available, it will be listed as an optional book. The Bookstore only distributes these books after the opt-out period. You must be opted-in to purchase.

I need a code. Where is it?
A couple publishers still require you to enter an access code when using their materials. The code is emailed to you a couple days before the class starts, or, for late registrants, the morning after you register.

I have further questions about Direct Digital Access content, who can I contact?
If you still have questions, please email ddateam@aacc.edu

What eBooks are available?
Most books published in the past couple of years have an eBook available. When an eBook is available, it will be listed along with the physical copy of the book. The eBook will be listed as optional.

Can I return eBooks?
eBooks can be returned within 14 days of purchase if less than 10% of the book has been accessed.

What software do I need to use my eBook?
When purchasing a VitalSource eText, you'll also download the VitalSource Bookshelf.

Will my eBook expire?
Some eBooks do allow lifetime access to the edition you purchase, but some books offer only limited access (180 day, 365 day, etc). More information regarding your particular eBook can be found when accessing your eBook.