Changes are coming to TCU’s bookstore.

TCU is switching the bookstore’s operator from Barnes and Noble to Follett Higher Education Group this summer. The new contract will be effective July 1 and bring “an array of new tools and technology for students, faculty and staff,” according to an email from Kathy Cavins-Tull, vice chancellor for student affairs.

“The textbook industry is evolving, and Texas Christian University desires to remain ahead of the curve,” Cavins-Tull wrote.

Follett will offer new textbook adoption services, price matching, open educational resources and more, according to the email. The bookstore will also get a facelift at some point in the future, including a teaching lab space and “a branded coffee concept and café with ample social space.”

The bookstore will be closed June 29-30 to undergo an official transition. It will be reopened on July 1 under Follett management under the TCU Bookstore brand.

No date has been set for renovations to the bookstore, but a committee will be created “to design and implement the store’s new look and feel,” according to the email.

Things to know, according to the email:

• Students returning rental textbooks should do so to Barnes & Noble (according to the terms of the rental agreement) through June 28. Rentals due back after June 28 will be returned to Follett.
• Barnes & Noble will continue to buy back textbooks through June 28. After that, Follett will purchase textbooks from students, including those purchased from Barnes & Noble.
• Students will still be able to use their ID cards to purchase items through the “Send Home” program.
• Staff and departmental discounts will continue with Follett at the current rates.
• For faculty, all submitted textbook adoptions for summer/fall courses will transfer from Barnes & Noble to Follett. Faculty that haven’t submitted textbook adoptions should do so through Barnes & Noble until June 28.