As a college student, I quickly realized that textbooks were one of my biggest expenses. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars each semester, I searched for alternative ways to get my books for free—legally! After years of experience, I’ve figured out the best methods, and I’m here to share them with you.

Why Textbooks Are So Expensive

College textbook prices have skyrocketed over the years, often costing $100–$300 per book. Many publishers release new editions frequently, making older (and cheaper) versions harder to find. But don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to get your textbooks without spending a fortune.

Best Websites for Free Textbooks

After testing dozens of platforms, I’ve found these to be the most reliable sources for free college textbooks:

• OpenStax – Provides high-quality, peer-reviewed textbooks for free.
• Library Genesis (LibGen) – A widely used source for academic books, including textbooks.
• Google Scholar & Google Books – You can often find full books or extended previews.
• Bookboon – Great for business and engineering textbooks.
• Project Gutenberg – Offers free classic and public domain books.
• Z-Library – A well-known platform for digital textbooks.

How to Use Libraries to Get Free Textbooks

Your college or local library can be a goldmine for textbooks. Here’s how I used them:

• University Library – Many libraries have course textbooks available for free.
• Interlibrary Loan – If my university didn’t have a book, they borrowed it from another institution.
• OverDrive & Libby – These apps let you borrow eBooks from public libraries.

Student Networks and Free Textbook Exchanges

I saved a lot of money by connecting with other students. Here are the best ways to find free books through student communities:

• Facebook Groups & Reddit – Many students share PDF versions of textbooks.
• Upperclassmen & Graduates – Seniors often give away or sell books cheaply.
• Course Websites & Professors – Some professors upload books and readings for free.

Other Smart Ways to Access Free Textbooks

If I couldn’t find a free version of a textbook, I used these creative solutions:

1. Check Open Educational Resources (OERs) – Many universities provide free educational materials.
2. Use Free Trials on Sites Like Chegg & Scribd – Temporary access to books for free.
3. Look for Older Editions – Often just as good as the latest versions.
4. Join Study Groups – Sometimes, classmates share digital copies of textbooks.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to spend a fortune on https://booksrun.com/blog/ textbooks. With the right resources and strategies, you can legally access free college textbooks and save hundreds of dollars. I’ve used these methods successfully throughout my academic journey—now it’s your turn!