The York University Bookstore is expected to see its revenues decline progressively over the next 10 years, soliciting a strategic review from administration in hopes of a long-term plan.
Last year, the Bookstore’s revenue was revenue was $18,947,000. York projects revenues in the 2022-2023 fiscal year will be $16,714 000 — a drop of $2,233,000. The decline in revenues is attributed to a shift to digital books, according to minutes of the Board of Governors’ meeting in December.
“Part of the Bookstore’s strategic review will include its role in developing customized eBooks which can provide content geared to courses and our students,” says Steven Glassman, director of the York University Bookstore, printing and mailing services.
He emphasizes prices of textbooks are set by publishers. Used books, ebooks, and book renting translate to lower sales for the Bookstore, but provide alternatives that are 30 to 70 per cent cheaper than the price of a new, physical book. Glassman hopes learning tools like Massive Open Online Courses, print on demand, and other similar services will also be included in the review.
He also notes the slow change from print to digital textbooks can be attributed to availability. When digital versions of books are available, they are offered to students alongside the print version.
“Most studies, including a survey done by our bookstore, conclude that students prefer digital only for the savings,” Glassman adds.
“There is more innovation needed in higher education publishing to create content that does much more than eliminating
paper and transportation costs.”
While some students prefer print books and others prefer reading from a screen, the Bookstore feels the best results would come from an innovative approach that includes locally controlled and edited content that is best suited for each instructor
and course. When York ended their relationship in 2011 with Access Copyright, course kits were outsourced to a commercial printer who has their license with the copyright company and can clear copyright violations.
It was reported at the meeting that close to 85 per cent of course kits at York are outsourced. Glassman notes there are now additional costs associated with the production of course kits, but that these costs are not passed onto students.
He says the end of York’s relationship with Access Copyright is positive, as it means more content is being posted online, and results in less expensive and smaller course kits.
“It does not help the Bookstore or the university to see students having difficulties in succeeding academically because they cannot afford the textbook,” says Glassman.
“It is hoped that the strategic review will encompass the question of providing great, rich content for students, by taking some innovative approaches.”
