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FAQs

Course Materials

How do I know what course materials I need for my course? 

  • A couple of weeks prior to the beginning of each semester, the booklist for the upcoming semester will be published on the webpage.  It is located under Textbook Lookup.  The booklist is not published prior to this point because we want to make sure all the information is correct and current before we make it public to you.  This prevents students from purchasing materials that will not actually be used in the class.  This list is refreshed regularly so that the information is always up-to-date. 
  • To access the booklist, click on the Textbook Lookup or you can access it directly from your course list. 
  • The list of courses will appear in course order.  It is very important that you select the SECTION that you are in, as course materials can vary by section.  
  • Once your section is selected, your course materials will display by required, choice and optional.  . 

       Required - You must have the text for your class. 

Choice -You must choose one of the choices for your class.  For example, some courses have the option of choosing a bundle (textbook and online access code) or just the access code.    

Optional -You may purchase this course material, but it is not required that you do so.  Often instructors add a supplemental text or material as an additional aid for the student. 

  • We try to list everything needed for the class in the booklist.  So if you need goggles for your chemistry class or a paint brush for your art class, they will be listed.  If it’s listed as a course material, you can get the items in the bookstore. 

Still confused?  It happens to everyone, so just call or come by the bookstore and we will help you find what you need. 

 What if my class is not listed?

  • This could mean one of two things:  either the instructor has not provided a list of materials needed to the bookstore manager OR the class has not been added to the bookstore system.  Please contact your instructor for the materials and ask him or her to contact the bookstore so we can ensure that we know the materials needed so we have them in stock. 

So now that I know what I need, how do I get my textbooks and other materials?

  • You may be tempted to run to the nearest computer or phone and start googling for your materials on the internet.  We ask you to stop and think about that for a minute.  All the materials you need for your course are located at the bookstore on the campus.  There are so many reasons to shop at the bookstore:

First of all, we guarantee that the course materials you need are the right ones.  We work with your instructors to make sure that the book is correct and in the format you need.  If a mistake is made, you can return the materials to the bookstore (with your receipt) and get the correct material.  If your class is canceled or the instructor decides to not use a text, you’re covered because the bookstore will take it back. 

The bookstore works hard to make sure that we offer textbooks at a reasonable price and offer affordable options.  Plus, the bookstore staff are available to help you negotiate your options and make the best choice for you. 

All proceeds from the bookstore go directly back to student clubs, scholarships, and other programs at WCC that benefit the students. 

So come to the bookstore and bring your schedule and your student ID.  We will help you find the materials that you need. 

 Can you print my schedule for me or look up my classes?

  • We do have the the ability to look up your schedule.  It will be faster if you bring your schedule though.  You can visit the Academic Support Center, located in the library in Window World Hal, and they can assist you if you want to print your schedule.    

  What is Cengage Unlimited and how does it work?

  • Cengage Unlimited is a code that provides access to the entire Cengage-published library for a specific term.  This works much like a subscription service, such as Netflix. 
  • YOU ONLY NEED ONE CENGAGE UNLIMITED CODE PER SEMESTER.  
  • There are two types of Cengage Unlimited:  Text Only and Text with a learning platform.  If your class uses a learning platform, such as Mindtap, etc., you will need to purchase the Text with a Platform option.  Textbook lookup will tell you which option you need for your class.  
  • For the text only option, there is only one term available:  4-months.  There are 2 terms offered for the platform version:  4-months and 1-year.
  • You can buy the access in the bookstore.  Just like our ebooks and codes, you will enter the code online at Cengage for access to your class materials. 
  • Through Cengage, you MAY have access to rent a printed version of the text.  Please contact your instructor, prior to purchasing Cengage Unlimited access if you need access to printed materials to ensure they are available for your class. 
  • If rentals are available and you purchase them through Cengage, you should expect to receive your texts within 3 business days.  You must work directly with Cengage and/or the instructor regarding issues with rentals.  Rentals made through Cengage must be returned to Cengage and not the bookstore. 
  • Only certain classes use Cengage texts so please talk to a bookstore associate and they can tell you if your class does. 

 Store Information

Where is the store located?

  • The Absher Bookstore in Wilkes is located in Thompson Hall on the second floor in Room 206. 
  • The Ashe bookstore is located through the main double doors of the Ashe campus buidling.  Go past the Business office window to the 200 hall (hall sign is above the hallway) and the bookstore is the first door to the right.
  • The Alleghany bookstore is located in the main building.  Please visit the reception desk and request an appointment at the bookstore.    

 What are your hours?

  • Our normal hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 
  • In the summer, our hours are Monday through Thursday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 
  • We do sometimes have special extended hours to accommodate our students.  We are typically open until 6:00 p.m. the first day of each class.  Exceptions to our hours can be found on store signage, our Facebook page and our Instagram account. 
  • Our most up-to-date store hours are posted on our store hours page.  

Are you on any social media platforms?

  • Yes, our social media pages are the best way to stay current with all the happenings at the bookstore.  We post special events, semester information, new item introductions, sales, and lots of other things. 
  • We are on Facebook.  You can find us by searching for WCC Absher Bookstore or using the link below:  https://www.facebook.com/WCCAbsherBookstore/.   
  • We are also on Instagram.  You can find us by searching for wccabsherbookstore. 

 Computers

Do you offer laptops?

  • Yes, we offer DELL EMC laptops. 

 Why should I buy a laptop from the bookstore?

  • We offer high quality, long lasting laptops.  They are designed to be used during your WCC tenure and beyond.
  • Every laptop is backed by a DELL Pro Support warranty. 
  • The laptops were selected by our IT team in conjunction with our faculty to ensure that they would meet the needs of all of our students.
  • Your advisor can help you determine which laptop you need based on your program of study. 
  • You may use your financial aid to purchase a laptop.  

 Do the laptops come with a warranty?

  • We are proud that all of our laptops come with the Dell Pro-Support warranty for either 2 or 3 years.
  • Just call their Pro-Support hotline and they will work with you to resolve any issues. 
  • If they can’t resolve it over the phone, they will COME TO YOU to fix it.  Yes, they will send someone to resolve your issue. 

 How do I order the laptops?

  • You can order your computer online through our Absher Bookstore webpage or order in the store. 
  • We have several of each laptop in stock, but we can order laptops at any time.  Orders are placed with Dell each day.  If you have to order your laptop, we will call you to pick it up as soon as your laptop arrives. 

How long does it take for the laptops to arrive?

  • We have some laptops in stock, but if we don’t we can usually get them to you within 2 weeks. 

Why does it take so long for them to arrive?

  • These laptops are customized for WCC students so that we can give you the best possible laptop.  Creating them for us takes just a little bit of time.

What if I decide I don’t want the laptop after I order it? 

  • Before you take possession of the laptop, it is 100% returnable. 
  • Just stop by the store with your receipt and we will refund the purchase price to your original method of payment. 

Can I return my laptop? 

  • Once you take possession of the laptop, you cannot return it. 

Returns

Can I return a purchase if I decide I don’t want it? 

  • Yes, with the criteria/exceptions listed below:

You must have the original receipt. 

Textbooks must be returned within 7 days of original purchase or within 7 days from the start of classes. 

Opened bundles or access codes cannot be returned. 

Computers and electronics cannot be returned.

If I return an item, can I get a full refund?

  • To get a full refund, all course materials must be in the same condition as they were sold.  For example, if you purchased a new textbook, it must be in new condition.  
  • Partial refund may be granted during the second and third week of classes (except during summer term), at the discretion of management. 

 Buyback

How often do you buy books back?

  • We only buy books back at the end of each semester.  Typically it is the last 3 days of classes for the spring and fall semester, and the last 2 days of classes for the summer semester.
  • If you don’t want to wait until the end of the semester, you can utilize our online buyback on our website.  Just click on the Sell My Books link. 
  • Watch our Facebook page and our webpage for specific information on buybacks as we get towards the end of each term. 

How does the book buyback process work? 

  • Bring your books to the buyback window near the entrance to the bookstore.  The associate will scan your book and let you know how much money we will give you for the book.  You are not obligated to sell your book.  If you do decide to sell your book, the associate will take your book and give you cash for it. 

Will you take all my books back?

  • There are a lot of factors that determine if we will buy a book back.  We utilize an outside vendor to conduct our buybacks.  While we may not be buying books back, the vendor may buy them. 

Why won’t you take my book? 

  • If the instructor decides that the book will no longer be used for their course, we will not buy the book. 
  • Sometimes, we have too many in stock for the upcoming semesters and cannot buy the book. 
  • Some older editions that we are no longer using, have no value to the vendor. 

Graduation

How do I pay for my graduation diplomas/certificates/regalia?

  • At some point during the school year, you will get an invoice from Student Services in your school email. 
  • After you recieve your invoice, you can pay any time at the bookstore.  You cannot pay for graduation items until you have an invoice. 
  • A store associate will gather all pertinent information and let you know the cost.  

When will my cap and gown arrive? 

  • If you plan to walk during graduation and you purchased your cap and gown, you may pick up your cap and gown the first week in May. 

When will my diploma/certificate arrive? 

  • Your diploma and/or certificate will be mailed to you in July.  If you haven’t received your items by the first of August, please contact Student Services. 

Clothing and Gifts

What do you carry in your store besides books and supplies?

  • The Absher bookstore is unique in the variety of items that we carry. 
  • In addition to books and supplies, we also carry WCC-branded merchandise, everything from clothes, hats, cups, mugs to postcards. 
  • We also carry a variety of gift items.  We like to feature local, North Carolina merchants.  The Artist Jay is one of our favorite artists.  He creates beautiful jewelry from recycled materials.
  • We also like to partner with companies that offer eco-friendly, sustainable products or companies that support humanitarian endeavors. 
  • We are continually looking for new items to carry in the store and we are always open to suggestions. 
  • We also sell convenience items, like stamps.  We can purchase individual stamps or a book of stamps.  Yes, they are same price at the bookstore as they are at the post office. 
  • Buying a gift?  We have gift bags and tissue paper or if you would like your item wrapped, we can do that too. 

Why don’t you carry…? 

  • We try to provide everything that a student or faculty/staff member would need, but we sometimes run out of something or don’t realize we need something else.  Let us know.  Tell a store associate, send us a FB message, shoot us an email.  We’ll make every effort to get it for you. 

Food and Snacks

What types of snacks and drinks do you carry?

  • The items that we carry can vary based on availability, but we usually carry an assortment of chips, candy, soft drinks, juices, nuts, and other items.  We also carry frozen items, such as biscuits, sandwiches, and ice cream for a low-cost meal alternative. 
  • We also have a coffee/tea bar, where you can get a hot beverage for little money.  A cup of coffee or tea is only $1.50.  Bring your own cup and it’s only $1.00. 
  • During the fall and spring semesters, we carry a limited quantity of food prepared by The Walker Center.  This includes sandwiches, soups and salads.  Offerings vary from week to week, but it's a great option for our students, faculty and staff.  

Why don’t you carry more nutritional foods?

  • We have worked hard to carry many more nutritional items.  We carry apples, bananas, cheese, nuts, balanced breaks, juices, vegan snacks, fruit cups, oatmeal, and gluten-free options.  We try to carry a good balance of food options for our students and customers, always trying to ensure that they are affordable.  Have a suggestion?  Let us know.