Barnes&Noble @ UAB

Interesting news for you:

Book retailer Barnes & Noble has entered a contract with UAB to manage the university bookstore in Hill University Center beginning July 1. The deal includes plans by the retailer to make physical and technological upgrades to improve customer service and a commitment to provide scholarships for textbook purchases.

Richard Margison, UAB vice president for financial affairs and administration, said the university has observed the emerging trend for large booksellers to contract for the operation of on-campus bookstores. “The sellers have the systems in place to provide optimal service to our customers,” Margison said.

“We will bring a Barnes & Noble trade and reference books section to the center of UAB and a variety of school spirit and unique gift items as well,” said Brian Stark vice president of stores.

Barnes & Noble also will invest $600,000 in physical and technological upgrades to provide better service to the UAB community, and by spring 2008, students should be able to electronically purchase books at the time of online class registration that correspond with their classes.

Additionally, Barnes & Noble also is providing $25,000 annually to assist UAB students with the cost of books, and UAB is working to establish the process for applying for these scholarships, Margison said.

Barnes & Noble welcomes students to apply for employment opportunities at the bookstore.