Book Lending Program Information for Students

How Does the Book Lending Program Work?

Eligible First-generation college students may apply to receive free textbooks during the first month of the fall (September) and spring (January) terms of the academic school year. The BLP is an automated process that requires you to answer a series of questions to determine your eligibility.

You have options! There are two ways that you may complete this process.

1. Self-pace

You can click on “Apply for BLP” to start NOW, which takes five minutes. The following videos will assist you with the application and requesting books.

How to Apply to the BLP

How to Request Books in the BLP

 

2. Attend a Workshop

See the Workshop Schedule to find a facilitated workshop that will give you the step-by-step process.

What you should do to prepare for the automated Book Lending Process

  • Look up all your books soon after you register for classes
  • The bookstore website will start posting books online as soon as professors make them available
  • Contact your professor directly if your books are not posted after a few weeks
  • When searching for inexpensive books online, it is easier when using the ISBN number,  which gives you the exact book that you need
  • For rental books, you must use a credit card to put the book on hold with the campus bookstore

What to do if challenges arise during the BLP Process

If you are unable to locate your books on the library website, you will need to search other sources such as the University Bookstore, Amazon, Better World Books, Chegg, etc. Dropping or adding classes – At any time in the first month of the semester you may log into the Armacost library website to request a textbook.

For more information please contact BLP@redlands.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Who is a First Gen student?

While the definition can be complicated, at the U of R being a first-gen student means that your parents did not complete a 4-year college or university degree.

How long does it take to receive books once they’re ordered?

One to three days.

What does Expected Family Contribution (EFC) mean? And, how does it relate to the program?

EFC is an index number used to determine your eligibility for federal student financial aid. This number results from the financial information you provided in your FAFSA form. It's reported to you on your Student Aid Report (SAR). Your EFC is calculated according to a formula established by law and considers your family’s taxed and untaxed income, assets, and benefits (such as unemployment or Social Security). We use EFC to determine your eligibility to participate in BLP. We understand that there may be gaps in the amount of aid you need and this should be fully explained in the application form.

Do I have to be a full-time student to enroll in this program?

No. Full-time status is not a requirement to qualify.

If I truly believe that I qualify for this program, but I received a message that I did not, who should I contact? And, what information should I give to them?

Should you not meet the eligibility requirements for the BLP, please set up a meeting with Peter Tupou at peter_tupou@redlands.edu.

Who do I contact if I have any follow up questions about BLP?

You can email BLP@redlands.edu with any questions or concerns.

In addition to textbooks, do you cover other materials?

Yes, depending on our funding, BLP has helped students with their lab fees.

Are there any suggestions on how I can manage my budget?

Yes, please see You’re in College! Tips for Budgeting to learn more.

How do I return my books at the end of the term?

At the end of the term, you will receive an email notification with detailed instructions on returning your book. Depending on the textbook, the email will come from the Armacost Library, the Campus Bookstore, Campus Diversity & Inclusion, or the publisher.

Am I allowed to highlight or write in my textbook?

Writing or highlighting in a textbook is strictly prohibited and will be considered damage to the book resulting in a replacement fee.