A Kentucky University is Breaking Barriers with Free Textbooks
April 25 2024 - 9:07AM
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) made a groundbreaking
announcement in April 2023, expanding its free textbook initiative
and saving students a staggering $43 million. This move is a
game-changer considering that the average undergraduate spends over
$1,200 annually on books and materials, a cost that often
influences students’ degree choices.
Traditionally, high textbook expenses have steered students away
from certain majors, like law or STEM fields, where the costs are
notably higher. However, at EKU, this financial burden no longer
dictates educational paths. Students are empowered to pursue
degrees based on their passions and talents, not on the price tag
of textbooks.
“At EKU, we’ve focused our efforts on strategic and intentional
growth—increasing opportunities for student affordability, support
and experiences to attract and retain our students,” said EKU
President David McFaddin. “We don’t want the cost of a textbook to
stand in the way of a student reaching their full potential.”
From Fall 2022 to Fall 2023, EKU reached its highest retention
rate in history at 79.62%. McFaddin said EKU’s emphasis on
affordability through programs like EKU BookSmart has helped the
university reach these milestones. Such achievements haven’t gone
unnoticed, with Kentucky earning the No. 1 spot in the United
States for its remarkable fall-to-fall total enrollment gains this
year.
The impact of EKU’s initiatives is evident in students’
testimonials. Eliana Johnson, a senior homeland security major,
expressed relief at not having to worry about textbook costs,
highlighting the seamless access provided by EKU BookSmart.
Similarly, Madison Mayes, a senior communication disorders major,
praised the program for its financial support, contrasting her
previous college experience before transferring to EKU.
EKU BookSmart, in partnership with Barnes & Noble, works as
a textbook rental program. After registering for courses, books are
gathered, packaged and shipped to students free of cost through
EKU’s Barnes & Noble Bookstore.
“This initiative reflects EKU's broader mission of making higher
education accessible to all, a core principle embodied by the
university’s status as the School of Opportunity,” said
McFaddin.
Located in Richmond, Kentucky, EKU is home to over 15,000
students and continues to prioritize affordability, student support
and holistic education. With programs like EKU BookSmart leading
the way, EKU is breaking barriers to higher education and paving
the path for student success nationwide.
Learn more and apply today at eku.edu/apply.
- EKU BookSmart
- EKU BookSmart
Sarah Baker
Eastern Kentucky University
media@eku.edu