Bookstore Frequently Asked Questions
Is shopping at the Campus Store really my best bet?
Yes! Your Campus Store works hard to provide students with the best value possible. We partner with faculty to select the most cost-effective course materials and offer money-saving options such as used, rental, and digital textbooks when available.
Plus, if you need to return or exchange a book, our staff is here to help make the process as easy as possible. Shopping at the Campus Store gives you the confidence that you're getting the correct materials for your courses at competitive prices.
Shopping at the Campus Store saves you time and takes the guesswork out of finding the right course materials. Everything you need for your classes is available in one convenient place, so you can spend less time searching and comparing options.
Most importantly, we guarantee that you'll receive the correct course materials for your courses, giving you peace of mind and helping you start the semester prepared.
Shopping for course materials at the Campus Store is quick and easy. In-store systems are designed to help you find exactly what you need.
Our staff is also available to assist you in locating the correct textbooks, course supplies, and other required materials, ensuring you get the right items for your classes.
Textbooks vs. Course Materials
Course materials is a broader category that includes everything you may need for a class, such as textbooks, eBooks, access codes, lab supplies, safety equipment (like goggles), and other required items.
Textbooks are just one type of course material. When we refer to course materials, we're talking about all the resources and supplies needed to support your success in a course.
When you see “Choice” or “Pick One,” it means your instructor has provided multiple approved options for a course material. You only need to select one of the listed items to meet the course requirements.
These options may allow you to customize your learning experience based on your preferences, interests, or budget. Simply choose the item that best fits your needs.
A book edition refers to a specific version of a textbook. Instructors typically select and teach from a particular edition, so it's important to purchase the version listed for your course.
Using an older edition may put you at a disadvantage because page numbers, assignments, chapter content, and course materials may not match. Newer editions may also include updated information, revised content, or additional resources required for the course.
To ensure you have the correct materials and can easily follow along with coursework and assignments, we recommend purchasing the edition specified by your instructor.
An international version is a textbook published for use in countries outside the United States. While the core content is often similar to the U.S. edition, international versions may have differences in formatting, page numbering, graphics, supplemental materials, or other content.
Because instructors typically teach from a specific edition, using an international version can sometimes make it more difficult to follow along with assignments, class discussions, or page-based reading requirements. In some cases, international versions may not include the same features or resources as the edition required for the course.
To ensure the best learning experience and compatibility with your coursework, we recommend using the edition specified by your instructor.
ISBN stands for International Standard Book Number. It is a unique number assigned to a specific book title, edition, and format, making it easy to identify the exact version of a book.
You can usually find the ISBN on the book's copyright page and on the back cover near the barcode.
When purchasing course materials, checking the ISBN is one of the best ways to ensure you're getting the correct book and edition required for your course.
Both new and used textbooks contain the same course content and are the same required edition for your class. The main difference is that a used textbook has previously been owned by another student.
Used textbooks may show signs of wear and could contain notes, highlighting, or markings from a previous owner. Because they are pre-owned, used copies are often available at a lower cost than new textbooks.
Choosing a used textbook can be a great way to save money while still getting the correct edition required for your course.
Book rentals allow you to use a textbook for the duration of your course at a lower cost than purchasing a new or used copy. Rentals are a great option for students who want to save money and do not need to keep the book after the class is over.
When you rent a textbook, you are responsible for returning it to the Campus Store by the due date and in good condition. Normal use, such as reasonable highlighting or note-taking, is typically acceptable. However, excessive damage, water stains, or missing pages may result in additional charges.
If a rented textbook is not returned or is returned in unacceptable condition, you may be charged the difference between the rental fee and the full purchase price of the book.
For additional details about rental policies, due dates, and return requirements, visit Learn More About Textbook Rentals.
Access codes are one-time-use codes that provide access to online course materials, such as eBooks, homework platforms, quizzes, videos, or other digital learning resources required for your class.
Depending on the publisher, access codes may be included with a new textbook or sold separately without a physical book. Some courses may require only an access code, while others may require both a textbook and digital materials.
The Campus Store will clearly present all available options, helping you choose the format that best fits your course requirements, learning preferences, and budget.
Digital books come in several formats, although a specific title or ISBN is typically available in only one digital format.
PDF eBooks |The most basic type of digital book is a PDF version of the printed textbook. It contains the same content as the physical book and can be viewed on a computer, tablet, or other compatible device.
Interactive eBooks | Some digital books include interactive features such as videos, quizzes, note-taking tools, search functionality, highlights, and links to additional learning resources.
Fully Digital Course Materials | Certain digital books are designed specifically for online learning and function more like a website or learning platform than a traditional textbook. These resources often allow students to navigate content in different ways and may not have a printed equivalent.
Your course may also provide digital materials through D2L. If so, specific access instructions will be provided to help you get started.
For additional information, visit Learn More About Digital Books.
If both digital and physical versions of your course material are available, the choice is yours. Consider your learning preferences, study habits, and budget when deciding which format works best for you.
Digital books offer convenient access from a computer, tablet, or smartphone and may include interactive features such as search, highlighting, note-taking, and multimedia content.
Physical books provide a traditional reading experience and are often preferred by students who enjoy reading from printed materials or taking handwritten notes.
Whichever format you choose, be sure it is the version required for your course.
Textbook Low Price Guarantee | The Campus Store is committed to providing competitive textbook pricing. If you find a lower advertised price on the same textbook from Amazon or another eligible competitor within seven days of your purchase, we'll match the price and refund the difference.
For complete details and eligibility requirements, visit Price Match Information.
A book adoption is the official term used for the textbooks, digital materials, and other course resources selected by an instructor or academic department for a specific course.
Book adoptions help ensure that students purchase the correct materials needed for class assignments, readings, and other coursework.
- View the materials required for your courses.
- Sign up for email alerts for items that are not yet available.
- Compare available formats, including new, used, rental, and digital options.
- Secure your materials before demand increases at the start of the term.
You can sign up to receive email notifications as soon as your instructor's course materials are available online. This is a great way to stay informed and be among the first to access or purchase your required materials.
You can receive notifications for as many courses or books as you'd like.
Option 1: Sign Up by Course
- Go to Books > Textbooks & Course Materials on the Campus Store website.
- Select your term, course, and section.
- If your course materials have not yet been submitted or are not available, you'll see the option "Email me when available online."
- Enter your email address to receive a notification when materials become available.
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Option 2: Sign Up by ISBN
- If you know the ISBN of the book you need, enter it in the website's search field.
- If the book is not currently available, you'll have the option to receive an email notification when it becomes available.
Once notified, you can choose the option that works best for you, including home delivery or free in-store pickup.
While it may be tempting to wait until after the first-class meeting, it's generally best to have your course materials before classes begin. College courses often move quickly, and instructors may assign readings, homework, or other activities during the first week of class.
Purchasing your materials early helps you:
- Be prepared from the first day of class.
- Avoid falling behind on assignments and readings.
- Take advantage of the best selection of formats and pricing options.
Keep in mind that used and rental textbooks often sell out first. Waiting to purchase your materials may limit your options and could result in paying more for a new copy.
If your instructor later determines that a material is not needed, be sure to review the Campus Store's return policy, as eligible items may be returned within the stated timeframe.
In most cases, unused course materials can be returned to the Campus Store through your school's add/drop period. If you change your schedule, withdraw from a course, or enroll in a different class, you may be eligible for a refund as long as the return meets the store's return policy requirements.
To ensure you're aware of all deadlines and requirements, be sure to:
- Keep your receipt or proof of purchase.
- Leave materials in returnable condition.
- Check the Campus Store's refund deadlines and return policy for specific details.
Because return policies can vary by store, course material type, and academic term,
always review your Campus Store's current return policy before making a purchase.
You can check the status of your online order using the Track an Order feature on the Campus Store website.
To track your order, you'll need:
- Your order number
- The email address used when placing the order
Once entered, you'll be able to view the current status of your order and any available shipping or pickup updates.
Note: Be sure to have your order number and email address available before tracking your order.
Opt Out of Courses Access
If you choose to Opt Out of Course (Inclusive) Access, your course materials will no longer be provided automatically through the Course Access program.
What happens if I opt out?
- You will be responsible for obtaining your course materials on your own.
- You will need to purchase or acquire the required materials separately, either:
- Through the bookstore, or
- From another source.
Opting out is generally only beneficial if you already have access to the required materials, such as:
- A textbook from a previous semester
- Materials obtained from another student
- Another legitimate source for the required course content
Yes. If you opt out, you will receive a refund of the original Book Fee that was charged with your tuition for that Course Access class.
Important Considerations
Before opting out, make sure you already have access to all required course materials. If you opt out and do not have the necessary materials, you may need to purchase them separately, which could cost more than the Course Access fee.
Bottom line: Opting out means you give up automatic access to your course materials and receive a refund of the Course Access Book Fee, but you become responsible for obtaining the materials yourself.
Yes. If you already have access to the required course materials, such as from a previous semester or another student, you may choose to Opt Out of the Course (Inclusive) Access program.
By opting out:
- You will no longer receive course materials automatically through Course Access.
- You become responsible for obtaining all required materials on your own.
- You will receive a refund of the Course Access Book Fee that was charged with your tuition.
Before opting out, make sure you already have access to all required course materials, including any digital content, access codes, or courseware that may be required for your class.
- For details on the opt-out process, deadlines, and important considerations, please refer to the Course Access Opt Out information.
No. Students that have an ADA accommodation should NOT opt out of CA but should instead contact the ACCESS office to request the course material in the needed format.
Tip: If you're unsure whether the materials you already have include required access codes or online courseware, check with your instructor before opting out.
If you accidentally opted out of Course (Inclusive) Access, you may still be able to opt back in, depending on the timing.
During the Opt-Out Process | As part of the opt-out process, you will see information explaining how long you have to reverse your decision and opt back in.
Opting Back In
- In most cases, students can opt back in during the first week of classes.
- After the opt-in deadline has passed, please contact the bookstore to determine whether reinstatement is still possible for your course.
Important Financial Information
If you opt back in:
- The Course Access Book Fee will be charged back to your student account.
- It is important to pay any resulting balance as soon as possible.
- An unpaid balance could affect your enrollment status and may result in being dropped from the course for non-payment, in accordance with college policies.
Need Help? | If you're unsure whether you're still within the opt-in period or need assistance restoring access to your course materials, please contact the bookstore as soon as possible for guidance.
Yes. An informational email containing your Course Access Opt Out link is typically sent to your OCC student email account (@student.oaklandcc.edu) approximately 1 to 2 weeks before your course begins.
Can't find the email?
You can access the Course Access Opt Out portal directly:
First-Time Users | To opt out, you will need to select Create an Account when you first visit the portal.
Creating an account:
- Takes only a few minutes
- Verifies your identity
- Ensures your opt-out request is processed correctly
Important Reminder
Before opting out, make sure you already have access to all required course materials, including any digital content, access codes, or courseware required by your instructor. If you opt out, you will be responsible for obtaining these materials on your own.
Need More Information? | If you're considering opting out because you already own the materials or plan to purchase them from another source, review the Course Access Opt Out information carefully to understand the deadlines, refund process, and how to opt back in if needed.
No. Once you opt out of Course (Inclusive) Access, your course materials will no longer be provided automatically through the program.
You will be responsible for:
- Obtaining the required textbook(s) and materials yourself.
- Purchasing materials from the bookstore or another source.
- Ensuring you have any required access codes, courseware, or digital content needed for your class.
Important Consideration
In many cases, Course Access materials are offered at a discounted rate through the program. If you opt out and purchase materials separately, the total cost may be higher than the Course Access Book Fee.
Before opting out, be sure you have a plan for obtaining all required course materials, including any online access codes or digital resources your instructor requires.
Bottom line: If you opt out, your materials will not be automatically available, and you will need to acquire them on your own, potentially at a higher cost.
Online Orders
If your online order status shows Pending Authorization, it means your order is being reviewed to confirm that it is eligible for payment through your funding source.
This status is common for orders paid using financial assistance programs, such as FAFSA, Michigan Works!, or other approved funding sources.
During the review process, we verify:
- Item eligibility to ensure the materials qualify for the funding source.
- Available funding to confirm sufficient funds are available to cover the purchase.
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What happens next?
Once the review is complete, your order will either:
Be approved and released for fulfillment, allowing processing and delivery or pickup to move forward, or
Be canceled if the items or funding source do not meet eligibility requirements.
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Do I need to do anything?
No action is required at this time. We will update your order status as soon as the review is complete.
Please note that funding reviews can take up to 7-10 business days to process.
Online orders may be canceled for several reasons, most commonly due to payment issues or item availability. Check your order status message to determine the reason and the appropriate next step.
Cancelled – Contact Store for Details
What it means | Your payment was not approved. This can happen if:
- There are insufficient funds available.
- A credit or debit card was declined.
- The item is not eligible under your selected payment method or funding source.
What to do | Review your payment method or funding source, such as Financial Aid, and place a new order if needed.
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Cancelled at Customer Request
What it means | The order was canceled at the student's request, either in person, by phone, by email, or through a customer service form.
What to do | If you still need the item, simply place a new order.
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Cancelled – Item or Color Unavailable
What it means | The specific item, size, color, or other selected option is no longer available.
What to do | Choose an available alternative and submit a new order.
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Cancelled – Undeliverable Address
What it means | The shipping address provided could not be verified or used for delivery.
What to do | Update your shipping address and place a new order.
There are several reasons why your order may not have shipped yet. In most cases, a delay is related to order processing, funding verification, or delivery logistics.
Order Processing | Orders typically require time to be reviewed and processed before they are shipped. If you used Financial Aid or another Special Account payment method, additional review may be required before your order can be released for fulfillment.
Allow approximately 4-7 business days for order processing and shipment.
In-Store Pickup Orders | If you selected in-store pickup, your items may need additional time to arrive at your chosen pickup location. After your order has been processed, please allow an additional 2-3 business days for the items to be transferred and made available for pickup.
Holidays and School Breaks | During campus closures, holidays, or academic breaks, order processing may be delayed until the college reopens. To avoid delays, it's best to place your order as soon as your financial aid becomes available, especially before extended breaks.
Expedited Shipping | Choosing expedited shipping speeds up the delivery time after your order has been processed. Expedited shipping does not reduce the time needed for order review, authorization, or fulfillment.
What should I do? | If your order has been processing longer than the expected timeframe, check your order status online or contact the Campus Store for assistance and a status update.
You can track your order status by visiting the Order Tracking page:
Note: You will need your order number and the email address used when placing the order to access your order information.
Pending Authorization means your order is currently being reviewed to confirm that your funding covers the items you purchased. This status is common for orders paid with financial assistance programs such as FAFSA, Michigan Reconnect, or Michigan Works!
During the review, we verify:
- Item eligibility
- Available funding
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What happens next?
The authorization review may take 7 to 10 business days to complete. Once the review is finished, your order will either:
- Be approved and released for fulfillment, or
- Be canceled if the items or funding do not meet eligibility requirements
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Do I need to do anything?
No action is needed at this time. We will update your order status as soon as the review is complete.
If your status remains unchanged after 10 business days, please contact the bookstore for assistance.
Online orders are typically canceled due to payment issues, item availability, or shipping address problems. The cancellation reason shown in your order status can help explain what happened.
Cancelled – Contact Store for Details
What it means | Your payment could not be processed. This may occur because of insufficient funds, a card issue, or because the item is not covered by your payment method (such as Financial Aid or another funding source).
What you can do | Verify your credit card information or funding eligibility, then place a new order if needed.
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Cancelled at Customer Request
What it means |The order was canceled at the customer's request, either in person, by email, through a Help Form, or by phone.
What you can do | Submit a new order if you still need the item.
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Cancelled – Item or Color Unavailable
What it means | The specific item, size, color, or variation you selected is no longer available.
What you can do | Choose an available alternative and place a new order.
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Cancelled – Undeliverable Address
What it means | The shipping address provided could not be used for delivery.
What you can do| Update your shipping address and submit a new order.
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Need More Information?
If your cancellation reason is unclear or you believe it was made in error, please contact the bookstore directly for assistance. They can review the order and provide additional details about the cancellation.
There are several reasons why your order may still be processing. In most cases, a delay does not mean there is a problem with your order.
Order Processing | Orders can take several days to process, especially when using Financial Aid or other Special Account funding. Generally, please allow 4 to 7 business days for your order to be processed and shipped.
In-Store Pickup Orders | If you selected In-Store Pickup, your items may require an additional 2 to 3 business days to arrive at the pickup location after the order has been processed.
Holidays and Academic Breaks | Orders placed during holidays, campus closures, or school breaks may not be processed until the college reopens. To help avoid delays, place your order as soon as your financial aid becomes available, ideally before leaving for break.
Expedited Shipping | Choosing Expedited Shipping only speeds up the delivery time after your order has been processed and shipped. It does not reduce the time required for order review, authorization, or processing.
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When should I be concerned?
If your order has been in processing for longer than the expected timeframe and there are no status updates, contact the bookstore for assistance. They can review your order and provide additional details.
Quick Summary
- Standard processing: 4 to 7 business days
- In-store pickup: Add 2 to 3 business days after processing
- Financial Aid/Special Accounts: May require additional review time
- Holidays and breaks: Processing may be delayed until the school reopens
- Expedited shipping: Speeds delivery only, not order processing
Financial Aid
Yes. If you have eligible Financial Aid available, you can use it to pay for your online bookstore order.
How to use Financial Aid at checkout
- Add your items to your cart.
- Proceed to checkout.
- Select Financial Aid as your payment method.
- Enter your Student ID number when prompted.
- Complete your order.
Yes. If you have an approved funding source such as Michigan Works, ACE, Athletics, or another authorized account, you can use it when placing your online order.
How to use an approved funding account at checkout
- Add your items to your cart and proceed to checkout.
- Select Financial Aid as your payment method.
- Enter the account name followed by your Student ID number in the payment field.
Examples:
- MIWORKS 123456789
- ACE 123456789
The amount of Financial Aid available for bookstore purchases depends on the type of funding you are using.
FAFSA Financial Aid
To view your available bookstore funds, log in to your MyOCC account and check your available financial aid balance.
NOTE: Your available amount may change as financial aid is adjusted, applied to tuition and fees, or updated by the Financial Aid Office.
Non-FAFSA Financial Aid
There are many types of non-FAFSA funding programs, such as:
- Michigan Works!
- ACE
- Veteran Benefits (VA)
- Athletics
- Other sponsored or grant-funded programs
Because each program has different eligibility rules, covered items, and spending limits, there is no single answer that applies to all students.
The best way to determine your available funding is to contact your program representative directly, such as your:
- VA Counselor
- Michigan Works! Case Manager
- ACE Counselor
- Athletics Representative
- Other sponsoring agency or program contact
They can tell you:
- How much funding is available to you
- What items are covered
- Whether any spending limits or restrictions apply
In general, FAFSA-funded bookstore purchases may be used for many items that directly support your coursework and academic success.
Typically Covered by FAFSA
- Textbooks
- Art kits and art supplies
- Lab kits and lab supplies
- Study aids
- General school supplies
- Calculators and other required course electronics
- Planners
- Backpacks
- Headphones (subject to limitations)
- Computers and tablets (subject to limitations, typically one laptop or tablet per academic year)
Typically, Not Covered by FAFSA
- Clothing and apparel
- Gift items
- Consumable items such as candy, soda, snacks, or over-the-counter medications
- More than one laptop or tablet during the same academic year
- Certain high-end headphones or premium electronics
- Items that exceed your available Financial Aid balance
Coverage for Michigan Works!, ACE, VA Benefits, Athletics, and other sponsored programs varies by funding source. Because each program has different rules, spending limits, and approved item lists, there is no single coverage policy that applies to all students.
The best way to determine what is covered and how much funding is available is to contact your program representative directly, such as your:
- VA Counselor
- Michigan Works! Representative
- ACE Counselor
- Athletics Representative
- Other sponsoring agency contact
They can provide information specific to your funding, including eligible items and any dollar limitations.
Important Note | Most special (non-FAFSA) funding programs cover required textbooks and course materials, but restrictions and funding limits may apply. If you're unsure whether an item is covered, check with your program representative before placing your order.
Course Access
If your class is designated as Course Access, it means that some or all of your required course materials have already been paid for as part of your tuition and fees.
What do I need to do | In most cases, nothing. You do not need to purchase Course Access materials separately through the bookstore website.
How will I receive my materials
Physical Course Materials
- Physical textbooks and materials will be available for pickup at the campus associated with your course.
Digital Course Materials
- Digital textbooks and course materials will be available through D2L (Desire2Learn).
Important Notes
- Not all courses participate in Course Access.
- If your course is listed as Course Access, check D2L for digital materials before purchasing anything online.
- If you're unsure whether a specific item is included, contact the bookstore or your instructor before making a purchase.
Bottom line | Course Access means your course materials are already covered through your tuition, so you generally do not need to buy them separately.
The way you receive your Course Access materials depends on whether they are digital or physical.
Digital Materials | Digital Course Access materials will be available on the first day of class through D2L.
To access your materials:
- Log in to D2L.
- Select Student Quick links.
- Choose My Materials.
- If your course uses an eBook only, you will see a Launch button in My Materials.
- If your course includes an eBook with courseware (such as MyMathLab or similar platforms), you may receive additional access instructions by email. Be sure to check your OCC email for details.
Physical Materials
If your Course Access material is a physical item, such as a:
- Course pack
- Art kit
- Lab kit
- Other required physical materials
It will typically be available up to one week before the term begins.
To pick up your materials:
- Visit the campus bookstore associated with your class.
- Bring a valid photo ID.
- Pick up your materials before or on the first day of class whenever possible.
Quick Summary
- Digital materials → Available in D2L on the first day of class
- Physical materials → Pick up at the appropriate campus bookstore with a photo ID
- Courseware courses → Check your email for additional access instructions
If you cannot locate your Course Access materials, contact the bookstore or your instructor for assistance.
You can determine the pickup campus by looking at the first letter of your course section number:
Course Section Pick-up Locations
| Room Number | Campus |
|---|---|
| A1502 | Auburn Hills Campus Bookstore |
| O1502 | Orchard Ridge Campus Bookstore |
| R1502 | Royal Oak Campus Bookstore |
| S1502 | Royal Oak Campus Bookstore |
Why are Southfield (S) sections picked up at Royal Oak?
The Royal Oak and Southfield campuses share the Royal Oak Bookstore, so Course Access materials for Southfield courses are distributed there.
Yes. If you'd prefer a different pickup location or home delivery, select Change Pickup Location/Shipping when viewing your Course Access materials. Available options will be displayed for eligible items.
Yes. If your physical course materials are assigned to a specific campus, you have several delivery options available.
Available Options
Ship to Your Home
- Have the item shipped directly to your home.
- A shipping fee will apply.
- Allow an additional 2 to 3 business days for delivery.
Pick Up at a Different Campus Bookstore
- Transfer the item to another campus bookstore for pickup.
- This option is free of charge.
- Allow an additional 2 to 3 business days for the item to arrive at the new pickup location.
Authorize Someone Else to Pick Up
- You may designate another person to pick up your materials on your behalf.
- Be sure they follow any bookstore requirements for authorized pickups.
Quick Tip | If you need your materials at a different campus or delivered to your home, make the change as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure you have your materials by the first day of class.
Shipping Fees
If you'd like your Course Access materials shipped to your home instead of picking them up at a campus bookstore, follow these steps:
- Visit the Access Shipping Fee product page:
- Add the Access Shipping Fee item to your cart.
- Proceed to checkout.
- After selecting your payment method, locate the Special Instructions/Comments section.
- Enter:
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- Your first and last name along with your student ID
- The course and section number for the class requiring the materials
Example:
John Doe 123456789 BIO 1530 A1501
Use the Bookstore Help Form to:
- Request pickup at a different campus bookstore
- Authorize another person to pick up your materials on your behalf
Important Notes
- Home shipping includes a shipping fee and typically requires additional transit time.
- Campus-to-campus transfers are free but may require extra processing time before the materials are available for pickup.
- Be sure to provide accurate course and section information to avoid delays.
Contact Information and Hours
Auburn Hills Store - G Building
(serving both Auburn Hills and Highland Lakes)
Phone: (248) 232-4320
Jesstin Wasen - Store Team Lead
Orchard Ridge Store - J Building
Phone: (248) 522-3420
Karla Caul - Store Manager
Royal Oak Store - B Building
(serving both Royal Oak and Southfield)
Phone: (248) 246-2422
Amanda Leavy - Store Manager
Bookstore Hours
Friday: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Saturday - Sunday: Closed