This page is all about ways to save money on textbooks and class materials; especially for selecting zero textbook cost courses and finding their materials.
Unfortunately, not all courses have suitable textbooks to be zero textbook cost. We're constantly working to make more courses ZTC, but it doesn't work for every type of class. Where possible, it's always helpful to let teachers in your non-ZTC classes know that you'd love to see ZTC options for future students.
What if I can't afford my textbooks?
There are many options to potentially lower your textbook cost. The first step would be to see if your course has an ZTC (Zero Textbook Cost) sections available. These sections use only free instructional resources. If not, you can try to search the library using OneSearch. The library has copies of many textbooks that you can use for free. You can also search online for used or rental textbooks.
Can I get a textbook from the Norco or RCC library?
If the textbook is located in their main stacks (not in reserve/limited to 7 day or less checkout period) then you can request the physical book. If it is on reserve (limited 7 day check, 2 hour check out, etc.), then we cannot request it. In the library's website, you can request physical books from Norco and RCC. Call the library reference desk (951) 571-6447), text us (951) 319-7358), or email reference for help. After requested the book, the library here will notify you and hold it for three days. You will need a photo ID to check it out.
How do I checkout a textbook from the library?
Library textbooks can be available for 21 day checkout, semester checkout, 7 day checkout, 2 hour checkout, or available virtually as an eBook. You can checkout up to 20 books that checkout for 21 days. You can checkout 1 semester checkout, 1 7-day checkout, and 1 2-hour checkout at a time. Electronic Books (eBooks) can be accessed on the library's website and usually list a number of copies that are available. That number represents how many people can view the book at the same time. If too many people are trying to access an eBook at the same time, it will put you on a wait list. After someone has used the book for an hour, if someone is waiting, they will be kicked off so the new person can use the book. Call the library reference desk (951) 571-6447), text us (951) 319-7358), or email reference for help.
How do library eBooks work?
Electronic Books (eBooks) can be accessed on the library's website and usually list a number of copies that are available. That number represents how many people can view the book at the same time. If too many people are trying to access an eBook at the same time, it will put you on a wait list. After someone has used the book for an hour, if someone is waiting, they will be kicked off so the new person can use the book. If no one is waiting, you can just continue to use the book! Most of these books allow you to download them or download a part of them for use off-line. Visit this link to see how finding and using Ebooks can be easy (video). You can go here to learn more about eBooks.
My class is ZTC, where do I find the textbook?
This depends on your class and the textbook(s). Your best bet is to look at your class syllabus and/or ask your teacher. These books are most often linked within the classroom or the syllabus. However, sometimes they are located in the library. The library has a page for finding your textbooks, though it doesn't have every book. Call the library reference desk (951) 571-6447), text us (951) 319-7358), or email reference for help.
How many books can I check out from the library?
You can have 20 normal books checked out at a time. Textbooks are either in normal circulating, where you can have up to 20 books checked out at at time, or in 7 day checkout, or 2 hour checkout. You can have only one 7 day and one 2 hour item checked out at a time.
