Navigating the Palm Beach State College Bookstore: A Comprehensive Guide

Starting classes doesn’t have to be stressful. This comprehensive guide provides essential information about the Palm Beach State College (PBSC) Bookstore, covering everything from accessing course materials to using financial aid and managing your PantherCard. Understanding these resources will help you navigate your academic journey with ease.

Follett Access Program: Streamlining Access to Digital Course Materials

PBSC offers a program designed to simplify access to digital course materials. This initiative, known as Follett Access, aims to provide students with required materials seamlessly and affordably.

How Follett Access Works

Under the Follett Access program, a group of classes will be charged with your tuition, essentially lifting or pulling together your digital course materials for these classes. There are no extra steps to complete, as the courses are outlined on Workday. The Follett Access materials are attached directly to the class charges. This means that the cost of the required materials will be covered when your tuition and fees are covered.

One student expressed their satisfaction with the program, stating, "I'm thankful to be a part of the Access program. It’s also good that it’s included in my school payment."

Opting Out of Follett Access

While the Follett Access program offers convenience, students have the option to opt out if they prefer to acquire their materials through other means. If you choose to opt out, the materials charges will be automatically dropped. To opt out, you'll need to complete this process, after which the charges for the digital materials will be removed from your account. This removal typically occurs approximately one week following the drop/add period for the term, or one week after the end of drop/add.

Read also: PBAU Academic Programs

Opting Back In

If you initially opt out but later change your mind, you can opt back into the Access program for that particular class within the Follett Access student portal. However, be sure to do so before exiting the form.

Missed the Opt-Out Deadline?

If you missed the deadline to opt out, refer to the information provided under “What is the deadline to opt out?”. For further assistance, faculty may also reach out to Jessica Bender, Chair, for more information, especially in relation to the textbook adoption deadline.

Financial Aid at the Bookstore

The PBSC Bookstore accepts financial aid during specific periods at the beginning of each term to facilitate the purchase of course materials.

Key Dates for Bookstore Financial Aid Usage

Bookstore financial aid is typically available from December 19 to February/March, depending on the specific year. For example, the specified dates are Dec. 19, 2025 - Feb. Mar. Note that a valid PantherCard is required for all financial aid purchases.

Accessing Your Financial Aid Balance

To check your available financial aid balance, click “Login” to access your account. The available balance will appear on the main screen, indicating the funds you have added to your card that can be used at any campus location. If you need to request funds, it is recommended to see a financial aid advisor.

Online Purchases with Financial Aid

Yes! Students can purchase books online from the Palm Beach State Bookstores. When making your purchase online, select "Financial Aid" as the form of payment.

The PantherCard: Your Official PBSC ID

The PantherCard serves as the official ID card for PBSC students, faculty, and staff. It is essential for various campus activities, including the purchase of course materials at campus bookstores.

Obtaining a PantherCard

An account will be automatically created for you. You can obtain your PantherCard through the following methods:

On Campus: Stop by our carding locations during business hours with an appropriate form of ID.
Order Online: Log in to the PantherCard portal to submit your photo and required information.

Using Your PantherCard

The PantherCard is crucial for the purchase of course materials at campus bookstores. Learn more about its various uses and benefits.

Adding Funds to Your PantherCard

Cash deposits can be made at the PantherCard Kiosks located on all campuses. The deposit form will request the student's PantherCard number, which can be found on the back of the card. Ensure you enter the correct number to guarantee an immediate deposit.

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