Frequently Asked Questions

When can we purchase textbooks for the next semester?

Most textbooks are ready to be purchased approximately one month before classes begin. Please call us to obtain specific information about your textbooks. Please bring your schedule with you when you come to purchase your books.

How can I get prices for my textbooks?

Click on the Booklist link on the left side of this page and select the current semester from the drop down list. There is also a link for the SMC Bookstore on the A-Z link at the top of the SMC home page.

When is the best time to purchase my books so that I can get used books?

You will find the lowest store traffic and largest selection of used books is the week after buy back.

Why are some textbooks so expensive?

Textbook prices are determined by the publisher and are affected by two factors. 75% of every new textbook dollar goes to the publisher. Of the remaining 25% most goes to support bookstore overhead expenses including rent, salaries, utilities etc. High printing and marketing costs, frequent release of new editions and other expenses also contribute to the cost of textbooks.

Can I have my books sent to my home?

Yes, books orders can be delivered to your home. You may also elect to save shipping costs and have your books delivered to either the Dowagiac Campus Bookstore or the Niles Area Campus. Follow the link to Shopping Online on this page for additional information. We accept MasterCard, Visa and Discover credit cards. You may also use your Pell/scholarship as a form of payment. If you have a Pell/Loan book voucher and wish to purchase supplies you will need to come to the Dowagiac Campus. If you would like to purchase clothing you can order online or come to the Dowagiac Campus.

What if a third party is paying for my books?

Third party book vouchers come out the week prior to the start of classes check the Bookstore Web site for the specific date. You will need to pick up your voucher at the Business Office before coming to the Bookstore.

I received a Pell/Loan voucher for my textbooks. How do I use it at the bookstore?

Pell vouchers are released the week prior to the start of classes check the Bookstore website for the specific date. . A Pell/Loan voucher can be used to purchase any item in the SMC Bookstore. You will need to bring a photo id and your student id number to the SMC Bookstore to use your voucher it is required by Federal law.

If I didn't use my entire voucher, what happens to the remaining balance?

Assuming you don't add or drop a class the remaining balance is sent to you in a disbursement check later in the semester. If you have any further questions, please contact the Business Office at 269 782-1298 or 269 687-1600, Ext. 1298.

If I drop or add a class can I use my Pell/Loan voucher again?

Yes, if you drop or add a class we can make any necessary adjustments. You will need to bring your new schedule and your sales receipt for any Pell adjustments. A Pell/loan voucher can be used up until the last day to add a class.

What is the refund policy for textbooks?

Textbooks purchased at the Dowagiac Campus can be returned for a full refund providing:

• you drop, add a class or your class gets canceled.
• you have a valid sales receipt which shows the books were purchased at the SMC Bookstore; a new class schedule
• textbooks are returned no later than the last day to add classes for the semester
• If you purchase your books online you can return them via mail or bring them to the Dowagiac Campus Bookstore. The books must be received at the Bookstore by the refund date to get a full refund.

When is book buyback?

Book buyback for Fall, Winter and Spring terms is always during the week of finals. Refer to your current class schedule for the exact dates and times or the Bookstore Calendar which is posted on the SMC Web site.
If you have your sales receipt you will receive 50% of the current new book price; (except for course packs which are not returnable) regardless of whether the book was purchased new or used - providing:

• The instructor has ordered the book for the next semester
• The book is still needed to fill the term's enrollment
• The book is in reusable condition.
• You have a valid sales receipt from the SMC Bookstore