Besides the requisite Target run, the one trip every student takes is to the bookstore. Just think of the joy: glossy, uncreased books you think you'll actually read. So grab your syllabi and pile into your roommate's friend's car--it's time to go book shopping!
Gothic Bookship: Where Gargoyles Shop
This deceptively large store offers decent discounts for books authored by faculty members. But the one time you need something, they probably won't have it. Still, decent for browsing while you wait for your friend to finish in the bathroom.
------> C- for the visitors.
The Regulator: Indie Style
Where else can you grab an organic coffee and take in a poetry reading on your shopping trip? The knowledgeable staff at this local landmark makes the inevitable book-lugging a pleasure.
-----> A for Ninth St. favorite.
Barnes & Noble: Boring and Ignoble
Ten minutes on 15-501 is too far to drive for this cookie-cutter clone of every other B&N in the country. Only worth it if you're already at Wal-Mart. Otherwise, stick to Duke. You'll spend just as much.
-----> D for chain store.
Book Exchange: Vintage Selection
A winner at helping you find the out-of-print titles on your book list since 1933. The Book Exchange's huge selection of used books is worth a trip just to browse. Plus, you'll be in the center of hip Durham.
-----> B+ for in-town style.
University Book Store: Books in the Basement
Descend into the store past signs telling you how much money you've saved, only to leave feeling like everyone else's selections must have gone on your tab. Wins points for convenience.
-----> D for expensive dungeon.
Amazon.com: Comparison Clicking
Let your fingers do the shipping at the world's biggest bookstore. Loses points for the sense of guilt you should feel for denyling local independent businesses your book money.
-----> C- for lazy, but easy.
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