Forums set with potential SEMO textbook, bookstore vendors

Vendors bidding to operate Southeast Missouri State University's bookstore and textbook rental services will conduct public forums this week.

The university will open up Glenn Auditorium in Dempster Hall on Thursday and Friday to hear from two remaining bidders, according to Laura Stock, director of business operations at Southeast.

The Follett Corp., which handles textbook and software services for schools and libraries, will lead the first forum at 1 p.m. Thursday.

Book retailer Barnes & Noble will follow at 1 p.m. Friday. Along with its online and retail stores, the company offers Barnes & Noble College -- a subsidiary that operates university bookstores.

Stock said each forum will begin with an audiovisual presentation and conclude with questions from the audience.

"They will present the programs they plan to use for bookstore and textbook rental services," Stock said. "Each program's services are unique, so the question-and-answer period is there to address the details."

If either vendor is chosen to operate the university's bookstore and textbook services, Stock said the decision must be approved by the Board of Regents before a contract is awarded in mid-May. The selected firm will take over the bookstore and textbook rental by July.

Some university students and workers have expressed concerns about the university contracting the services, citing the possibility of increased price to students and the loss of jobs.

srinehart@semissourian.com

388-3641

Pertinent address:

814 N. Henderson Ave., Cape Girardeau, Mo.

388 N. Henderson Ave., Cape Girardeau, Mo.