In the first two weeks of the Fall 2013 semester there were over 1745 textbook rentals according to the Moorpark College Library Voyager Access Report Module.

The circulation desk at the Moorpark Library is a place where students can come to rent out textbooks for two hours at a time. Teachers can choose to provide the desk with a copy of the book their students will need for the class. This service has become more popular over the years, which can be seen in the growing number of textbook rentals.

Victoria Zolfaghan, 19, Biology Major, explained how convenient the circulation desk has been for her.

“Well I actually really like it because when I first came here I didn’t know that there were books behind the counter that you could check out so every day I would be carrying my books with me, like calculus books which are heavy. So its nice having the availability of the textbooks to use at your own discretion if you need it at the library. So it’s helpful!”

According to data presented by the National Survey of Student Engagement, one in every four first year college students did not purchase the textbooks and other materials required for their classes because the cost was too high. Kevin Le, 18, undecided, knows he needs his books and takes advantage of whatever books he can use for free.

“It’s been very helpful in getting my books so I can do my schoolwork. Yeah it’s saved like a lot of money, a couple hundred.”

Not every book is available at the desk, because it is up to the teachers to decide if they want to purchase a copy of the book their class will need, and give it to the library.This also means that another student may have the book your looking for, and you have to wait for it to return.

Sawyer D’Amico, 20, Nuclear Medicine Major, had some suggestions on how to improve the rental system, but overall thinks the service is a positive one for students.

“I’ve been pretty lucky. I rarely come here but since I haven’t ordered my math book yet, or I’m still waiting for it to come I’ve had to use it, and yeah it’s usually available.”

If you were not aware of this service, head into the library today and see if the book you need is available to rent. Teachers are not expected to buy extra copies of their books and give them to the circulation desk so it is good to appreciate them for being provided.