In an effort to expand access to new products, services, and savings, Valdosta State University has partnered with Follett Higher Education Group to manage the VSU Bookstore, effective July 10. A campus evaluation team identified the company as having the best resources, technology, and course material offerings to support the university’s faculty, staff, students, and alumni, as well as the surrounding community. 

“This is a great day for Valdosta State’s teaching and learning mission,” said Dr. William J. McKinney, president of VSU. “The partnership with Follett will ensure that VSU provides the widest array of academic materials for its students and faculty, while at the same time controlling costs in a rapidly changing marketplace.”  

Follett will bring to the VSU Bookstore the largest inventory of course materials and a network of more than 6,000 publishers and providers to offer students the greatest selection of affordable options. This includes a growing textbook rental program, which saves students, on average, 50 percent or more off the price of a new textbook. The bookstore will be able to provide a risk-free rental experience with the ability to highlight, take notes, and easily convert a rental to a purchase should the student decide to keep the text.

With Follett, the VSU Bookstore will also offer an extensive selection of digital learning technologies, such as the company’s proprietary BryteWave digital reader. Digital materials allow students to study anytime, anywhere and often feature interactive learning tools, such as video, animation, and models. These cost-saving options, as well as a broad assortment of general merchandise, from technology to clothing and convenience items, can be explored both in-store and online through the bookstore’s eFollett.com website.

 “Through this partnership with Follett, we will be able to provide our students a wide selection of affordable course materials needed in an evolving teaching and learning environment,” said Shannon McGee, director of Auxiliary Services at VSU. “We are confident that Follett’s strong sense of community, coupled with their expertise, will drive new programs and have a positive impact on our campus.”

“We’re excited to join and support the Valdosta State University community,” said Don Germano, president of Follett Higher Education Group. “We look forward to working with the institution in exploring the unique needs of the campus community and identifying the right solutions to drive affordability, access, and ultimately, classroom success.”

Contact Shannon McGee at (229) 333-5706 or [email protected] to learn more.