The James Madison University Bookstore, located in Harrisonburg, Virginia, is a vital resource for students, faculty, and staff of James Madison University (JMU). As a hub for academic and social activities, the bookstore plays a significant role in supporting the university's mission to provide a high-quality education. With a wide range of products and services, the bookstore is designed to meet the diverse needs of the JMU community.
Established in 1908, James Madison University has grown to become one of the largest public universities in the state of Virginia, with a student body of over 22,000 students. The university's bookstore has evolved to keep pace with this growth, expanding its offerings to include a broad selection of textbooks, course materials, and digital resources. The bookstore's primary goal is to provide students with the necessary tools and resources to succeed in their academic pursuits, while also promoting a sense of community and school spirit.
Academic Resources and Services

The James Madison University Bookstore offers a comprehensive range of academic resources and services to support student success. These include:
- Textbook Rentals: The bookstore provides a textbook rental program, which allows students to rent textbooks for a semester at a lower cost than purchasing them outright.
- Digital Course Materials: The bookstore offers digital course materials, including e-textbooks and online learning platforms, to provide students with flexible and accessible learning options.
- Customized Course Packs: The bookstore works with faculty to create customized course packs, which include all the necessary materials for a particular course, making it easier for students to access the resources they need.
- Tutoring and Academic Support: The bookstore partners with the university’s academic support services to provide tutoring and academic support to students, helping them to succeed in their studies.
Merchandise and Spirit Wear
In addition to academic resources, the James Madison University Bookstore also offers a wide range of merchandise and spirit wear, including:
- JMU Apparel: The bookstore sells a variety of JMU-branded apparel, including t-shirts, hoodies, and hats, allowing students to show their school spirit.
- Gifts and Novelties: The bookstore offers a selection of gifts and novelties, such as mugs, water bottles, and phone cases, featuring the JMU logo or mascot.
- Technology and Accessories: The bookstore sells a range of technology and accessories, including laptops, tablets, and headphones, to support students’ academic and personal needs.
Product Category | Percentage of Sales |
---|---|
Textbooks and Course Materials | 60% |
Merchandise and Spirit Wear | 20% |
Technology and Accessories | 10% |
Gifts and Novelties | 5% |
Other | 5% |

Key Points
- The James Madison University Bookstore is a vital resource for students, faculty, and staff, offering a wide range of academic resources and services.
- The bookstore provides textbook rentals, digital course materials, and customized course packs to support student success.
- The bookstore sells a variety of merchandise and spirit wear, including JMU-branded apparel, gifts, and novelties.
- The bookstore partners with the university's academic support services to provide tutoring and academic support to students.
- The bookstore stays up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in higher education to support the needs of the JMU community.
Community Engagement and Events

The James Madison University Bookstore is committed to engaging with the local community and hosting events that promote school spirit and academic success. Some of the events and initiatives include:
- Author Readings and Book Signings: The bookstore hosts author readings and book signings, featuring local and national authors, to promote literacy and a love of reading.
- Workshops and Training Sessions: The bookstore offers workshops and training sessions on topics such as study skills, time management, and academic success strategies.
- Spirit Week and Game Day Events: The bookstore participates in Spirit Week and Game Day events, selling merchandise and promoting school spirit.
- Partnerships with Local Businesses: The bookstore partners with local businesses to offer discounts and promotions to students, faculty, and staff.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the James Madison University Bookstore is a vital resource for the JMU community, providing a wide range of academic resources and services, as well as merchandise and spirit wear. By staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in higher education, the bookstore is well-positioned to support the needs of students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re a student looking for textbooks and course materials, a faculty member seeking academic support, or a community member wanting to show your school spirit, the James Madison University Bookstore is the perfect destination.
What types of textbooks and course materials does the James Madison University Bookstore offer?
+The James Madison University Bookstore offers a wide range of textbooks and course materials, including new and used textbooks, e-textbooks, and digital course materials.
Can I rent textbooks from the James Madison University Bookstore?
+Yes, the James Madison University Bookstore offers a textbook rental program, which allows students to rent textbooks for a semester at a lower cost than purchasing them outright.
Does the James Madison University Bookstore offer any discounts or promotions?
+Yes, the James Madison University Bookstore offers various discounts and promotions throughout the year, including discounts on textbooks, merchandise, and technology.