The University of Nebraska at Kearney is ending its partnership with Barnes & Noble College and launching a new online bookstore this summer. The Kearney Hub reported that starting with the fall 2022 term, all textbooks and course materials will be available online through a partnership with Akademos, a provider of online and hybrid bookstore services for colleges and universities.
"As an institution focused on student support and success, we're always looking for ways to improve affordability and access to higher education," said Michael Christen, director of business services at UNK. "Akademos shares the same goals. We believe this partnership will meet our students' needs today and well into the future."
UNK began exploring options related to bookstore operations in spring 2021 and a request for proposals was issued in December. A committee with faculty, staff and student representation reviewed seven bids before selecting Akademos for the contract.
Although the Antelope Bookstore will no longer sell textbooks directly to students, it will remain open inside the Nebraskan Student Union and have on-campus management to assist students and faculty with their textbook needs and answer questions related to the new partnership with Akademos. UNK apparel, classroom supplies and other merchandise will also be available there.