Bison Ready program makes textbooks more affordable

NDSU is committed to lowering barriers to student success, especially when it comes to course materials. A powerful partnership between the NDSU Bookstore and NDSU Libraries has led to a comprehensive, student-centered approach that ensures all students have access to the materials they need, right from day one.

What Is Bison Ready?

In the Fall of 2025, the NDSU Bookstore launched Bison Ready, an affordable course materials program that gives students predictable, semester-long access to required textbooks, courseware and supply kits at a predictable cost.

Flat-Rate Option (“Bison Ready Complete”)

Undergraduates pay a fixed $325/semester - no hidden fees.

Selective Option (“Bison Ready Select”)

If you prefer more control, you can choose which digital or physical items to include and pay per-title.

Opt-Out

If you’d rather find and buy your own materials, you can easily opt out each semester.

Bison Ready ensures first-day access to digital course materials, and physical books or kits are available for pickup.

How the NDSU Libraries Support Students

While Bison Ready tackles affordability through bundled course materials, NDSU Libraries further extend this support in several powerful ways:

Open Textbooks

The NDSU Libraries maintain a collection of open textbooks — freely licensed books that students can download, reuse and adapt — helping reduce or eliminate cost for many courses.

Interlibrary Loan (ILL)

For required readings that are not available via Bison Ready or open access, students can request materials through ILL. This gives access to books, journal articles and other resources from libraries around the country.

Accessibility & Support

The Libraries are deeply committed to equitable access. They provide adaptive technology, accessible formats and assistance for students with disabilities to make sure everyone can use library resources effectively.

Why It Matters

• Cost predictability: With Bison Ready Complete, students and families know the maximum textbook cost up front.
• Day-one access: Digital materials are available on the first day of class, avoiding shipping delays or last-minute purchases.
• Choice & flexibility: Students decide what works best for them — bundled material, individual titles or independent sourcing.
• Equitable access: The Libraries play a critical role in filling gaps not covered by the bookstore, especially for students who benefit from open resources or interlibrary loans.