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As we all know, RIT does not display International Standard Book Numbers (ISBN) on the Barnes & Noble website (the only way to find textbooks for classes). Since many books have different editions, and similar titles, not knowing the ISBN makes it more difficult to find textbooks elsewhere. After inquiring and receiving a unfulfilled answer from RIT’s Barnes & Noble’s Manager:

“It is Barnes and Noble College Booksellers policy not to post ISBNs on our websites unless we are contractually or legally obligated to.”

Well, it turns out that RIT is actually legally obligated to.

As of August 14, 2008, a textbook provision of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (pdf) states that all institutions of higher learning are required to display ISBN and retail price for required textbooks.

This provision does not take effect until July 1, 2010, however Congress has stated that they hope universities will begin to implement these changes before the deadline to end what they feel are “abuses in the process.”

RIT has still not yet implemented these changes, however, the manager of the RIT bookstore states that these changes are underway, but they will not be completed until sometime next year. (Right before the deadline - go RIT!)

Thanks to Matt Danna, RIT’s Student Government President for helping this along.