FAQ: Does the library have textbooks?

One of the library's most frequently asked questions is if we have course textbooks. The answer is "maybe". Although the Bentley Library does not purchase textbooks, it is worth checking to see if (1) your professor put a copy of the textbook on reserve or (2) your textbook happens to be in the library's regular book collection.

(1) Check Course Reserves Sometimes professors put a copy of the class textbook on reserve for students at the Library Services Desk. You can search course reserves for your textbook by your professor’s last name or the course code. Reserve readings can usually be checked out for 2 hours, but some professors may allow a longer borrowing period.

(2) Search the Library’s Catalog for Your Textbook Sometimes the library will have a copy of your textbook in the stacks. This is more likely for books that are not "standard" textbooks, such fiction/literature, business titles, popular nonfiction books and biographies. Search the library’s catalog by title and/or author for your textbook. If you do find your textbook, double-check the publication date or edition number to ensure it is the same edition required by your professor.

For More Help... Have questions about textbooks? Stop by the Reference Desk, call 781.891.2300, send email to refdesk@bentley.edu or contact us using our chat/IM widget. Find answers to more library FAQs in AskUs, the library's FAQ database.