Q What is TextbookX.com?
A TextbookX.com is the brand name for the online bookstore business operated by Akademos. So, while The Urban School partners with Akademos to provide the online bookstore service, your invoice, shipment and other items may be labeled “TextbookX.com.”
Q Why is Urban using Textbookx.com?
A This system of ordering books provides significant options for cost savings to our families. Not only will students be able to buy used books, but they will be able to sell books back to Akademos/Textbookx.com at the end of the year. We can also ensure that we have updated books on an annual basis, which is so critical when it comes to many subject areas, i.e. history and science.
Q Do I have to use TextbookX.com to order books?
A All Urban students will need to order most of their classroom books and texts from Akademos/TextbookX.com. We also offer the option of purchasing required equipment, such as the TI-89 Titanium graphing calculator required for all students taking a math course. Some readers and other specially printed materials will still be handed out, and the cost of those are covered by the $350 fee. This fee is half of what it was in previous years. Families can save money by ordering used books and by selling books back at the end of the year.
Q We can purchase used books?
A TextbookX.com offers many used books, both directly (sold as "Used") and through our built-in book Marketplace. Marketplace books will be shipped directly from their respective sellers, however TextbookX.com will handle all aspects of the financial transaction to make sure that your order is secure. We will even provide the seller with a shipping label to use to get the book to you fast. Note: Some teachers/courses may require new books, thus used books will not be listed as an option.
Q What is the Marketplace?
A The Marketplace is a platform that allows students and others to buy and sell books directly. Marketplace listings will show up right alongside new and used books. This allows you to instantly compare new and used retail prices with prices offered by Marketplace sellers.
Q What is your return policy?
A Purchased items can be returned to TextbookX.com for a full refund in the amount of the merchandise price paid, so long as the following conditions are met:
- item was not purchased on our Marketplace
- item was purchased within 30 days of your order confirmation
- item was not sold as "Non-returnable"
- if the item is "consumable," for example a one-time-use access code
- if the item has not been opened or used.
Please note that our return policy is different depending on whether your item was purchased on the Marketplace or directly from TextbookX.com (marked as new or used online). Please read our return policy carefully to make sure that you are correctly following the procedure for your type of book.
Q How do I pay with a school voucher/gift certificate?
A If Urban assigned you a voucher (for example, students who are receiving financial aid), or if TextbookX.com issued you a gift certificate or store credit code, you can use this code during checkout to pay for your order. Simply continue with the checkout process until you arrive at the payment selection page. Enter your code in a box marked "special codes” above the credit card form. If your order is more than the value of your code, you will need to enter a credit card to cover the remainder. Please note that we will exhaust your code before putting anything onto your credit card.
Q How do I know which classes my student is taking this term?
A Log into the Urban Parent Portal and cick Student Reports/Info. A new browser window will open with your student’s name; click on “Student Schedule List” (be sure to uncheck the box: Check to view schedule as a grid) and note the classes. If you have misplaced your Parent Portal password, please use the "forgot password" link.
Q What if I need more help?
A If you need assistance with ordering you can contact Textbookx.com customer service Monday-Saturday, from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m. EST or Friday 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. EST at 1 800 887 6459 or via email at institutions@akademos.com. To contact someone at Urban, please email bookstore@urbanschool.org.
