The Saint Xavier University bookstore in Chicago, Ill., will begin transitioning to an online-only bookstore in May, SXU Student Media reported. Once the store's current contract with Follett expires at the end of this semester, the bookstore will enter into a three-year commitment with Akademos.
The university explained that the decision to go online-only was due to the "increasing costs of textbooks and the growing trend of students choosing to purchase their textbooks and course materials from online booksellers." They hope the virtual store will provide faculty with a "streamlined textbook adoption process" and more affordable options for students. The online store will also sell "spirit wear" and university-branded gift items.
Auxiliary services director Linda Moreno noted that "the current employees are Follett employees and will work with their corporation for new placement opportunities within the Follett system."