Required course books are so expensive because they are necessary for the course. And ofcourse the only place you can get them is in the College Book Store. And ofcourse the only time that you can find used books is a month into the course. There is such an education in becoming educated.

I've never had an issue finding used books, except when the professor requires a new edition that came out less than a couple months ago. That was the case for one of my classes, but the rest I am always usually prepared weeks in advance.

Bookstores give you nothing back, they are a real rip off. Sell it back online! Then you won't feel as bad buying overpriced book even if you need to.

I get mine used from amazon