Amazon Launches Textbook Rental.

WorldWide Tech & Science. Francisco De Jesùs.

The online retail giant is offering semester-long rentals of physical books, with most titles in the $30 to $60 range. Amazon promised savings of up to 70 percent off the print-list price.

For example, one macroeconomics textbook that retails for $170 can be rented from Amazon for a semester for around $46.

"All this means more money in your pocket for the things in life that can't be learned from a book," Amazon said in its textbook rental FAQ.

The rental period lasts for 130 days, with one 15-day extension allowed. Textbooks are shipped at standard prices, and Amazon covers the cost of returning them. Renters may receive a book that is new or used, depending on availability.

Amazon Launches Textbook Rental.

Print textbook rental program can help students save up to 70%.

Amazon.com, Inc. today announced the launch of Amazon Textbook Rental. Now college students can choose from thousands of textbooks to rent for the semester and save up to 70%. To rent a textbook, simply searchAmazon.com for the book, select “Rent Now,” choose shipping and payment options, and check out. All textbook rentals are Fulfilled by Amazonand are eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping on orders over $25, and Prime Free Two-Day Shipping. At the end of the rental period, returns are free and simple with a prepaid, printable label.

“College is expensive, and students are always looking for ways to save money on textbooks, which is why we’ve long offered great prices on both new and used textbooks,” said Ripley MacDonald, Director of Textbooks at Amazon.com. “With Textbook Rental, Amazon gives students yet another great option for saving money – it’s now easier than ever for students to get the books they need, in the format they want, at affordable prices. So no matter if a student wants to buy or rent their textbooks, Amazon can be their one-stop shop.”

Textbook rentals and millions of other items including books, backpacks, electronics, video games, the latest fashion in clothing and shoes, and other college essentials are eligible for Free Two-Day Shipping with an Amazon Prime membership. By signing up for Amazon Student, a free membership program exclusively for college students, students can get six months of Free Two-Day Shipping on millions of items, plus exclusive offers, and then up to four years of Amazon Prime at 50% off. Students can learn more by visiting www.amazon.com/joinstudent

For more information about Amazon Textbook Rental visit www.amazon.com/textbooks.