STAFF ED: ASUN follows through with textbook rental program

Throughout the years, the Daily Nebraskan and the student government have agreed to disagree on just about everything. We are traditionally quick to point out where the Association of Students at the University of Nebraska fails or has let us down. However, it is also our responsibility to point out its achievements, especially when it gives the student body more options in how they spend their hard-earned money.

The new textbook rental program implemented at both the University Bookstore and the Nebraska Bookstore this fall gives us a chance to do just that.

Returning students will notice the signs down every aisle in the University Bookstore, giving us a second option at the checkout booth. Instead of putting large amounts of cash down up front and hoping to get a return at the end of the semester by selling textbooks back to the bookstore, you can rent books for less money now as long as they are returned in good shape and on time.

For students on a budget, the ability to lower the initial costs of beginning-of-the-semester costs is very helpful. The cost of moving, parking passes, pens, paper and personal expenses can be extremely taxing on an already tight budget. By the end of the semester, the increased cash can be welcome, but the unsure return rate on textbooks (if the bookstores even take them back at all) can add stress to an already busy season. Instead of gambling on getting money back for books, the money is already in your pocket, something all students can be thankful for.

This would not have happened without ASUN in place working for the better interests of the student body and shows the importance of voting and paying attention to the issues. The disagreements the Daily Nebraskan and the student government have may lead to an "us versus them" mentality, but we also recognize that each of us has the student body's interests in mind above all else. In the case of textbook rental now being a viable option for incoming students, we have to thank ASUN and point out the importance of staying involved and informed with issues around campus.

opinion@dailynebraskan.com