Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around finding the best online sources for purchasing math and physics textbooks, with a focus on shipping costs and availability. Participants explore various options for buying books, including the challenges of international shipping, especially for those located in the EU purchasing from the US or Asia.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory, Debate/contested, Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- One participant inquires about the best online sites for buying math and physics textbooks, highlighting concerns about high shipping costs.
- Another suggests checking local university or technical bookstores to avoid shipping fees, although some participants express that specific books may not be available for special order.
- Concerns are raised about the high shipping costs compared to the price of books, particularly when ordering multiple items.
- One participant recommends using abebooks for used books, providing a link to the site.
- Another participant suggests bookfinder.com, noting that it aggregates multiple sources and includes shipping costs in the price, but also mentions that shipping from the US can still be prohibitively expensive.
- There is a discussion about whether shipping costs should be included in the book prices, with questions about the availability of books from different locations.
- A participant asks for opinions on Alibris as a potential source for books.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express varying opinions on the best sources for purchasing books and the associated shipping costs. There is no consensus on a single best option, and multiple competing views remain regarding the effectiveness of different platforms.
Contextual Notes
Participants mention specific challenges related to shipping costs and availability of particular books, indicating that these factors may vary significantly based on location and the chosen retailer.