Bridge Books, a textbook program developed by Piedmont University’s bookstore, was introduced to students June 2024, via a brief email sent to all students.
A graphic stated that Bridge Books “gives you all the course material you need for a flat rate of $22 per credit hour.” The university repeatedly urged students to explore the program, claiming it would save them time and money.
The program was introduced unexpectedly during the summer, initially throwing off students. During the summer, students typically do not go out of their way to open their email, much less their computer. Students were scrambling to understand the program’s concept, trying to find ways to opt out of it. But at the time, Piedmont did not offer students the opportunity to do so immediately.
The university forced students to wait until July 15, 2024, to opt out of the program. The university waited to do this to provide students with more information about the program and to push their marketing tactics.
In an email sent to students in July 2024, the university informed them that participating in the Bridge Books program would earn them 20% off school supplies, as well as 10% off audio electronics, technology accessories and calculators.
Because the university introduced the program abruptly, it sparked conversation among students on Piedmont, a social media app created specifically for the university’s staff, students and professors.
“I’m sick and tired of this Bridge Books stuff. Life was better when we could get everything at the bookstore and not have to deal with such a mess,” said junior theatre arts major Lyric Rogers on the Piedmont app.
Although Bridge Books rolled out with some technical difficulties, Piedmont staff acknowledged the issues regarding the new program by introducing a Frequently Asked Questions page on the Piedmont University website.
Student Accounts also made visual tutorials on how students could opt out of the Bridge Books program, with a step-by-step visual posted on the Piedmont app. Student Accounts also makes sure to post reminders for students who utilize the Piedmont app to either confirm their Bridge Books order or opt out before the deadline.
While Bridge Books had a rocky start and still raises eyebrows with some students over the sudden “money-saving” move from Piedmont, it’s easy to say that Piedmont staff have been communicating more effectively with students about the program.
Students have a wide variety of information if they find themselves confused or have questions about specific aspects of the program.
“When the program was first introduced, it was confusing and irritating,” stated freshman film major Allie Watkins. “But now that Piedmont has introduced a frequently asked questions page, I feel as though I’m slightly more informed about the program.”
Bridge Books will continue into the fall 2025 semester, allowing students to take a deeper look at the program and decide whether they want to opt in.
