The University of Calgary is looking to privatize their bookstore, seeking to sell the bookstore to an American company called Follett. Follett has made many attempts to buy Canadian university bookstores, including SAIT, Bow Valley College, Red Deer College, University of Saskatchewan, and more. This move to privatize the bookstore would mean profits for Follett at the expense of the student.  This move towards privatization will have long lasting and detrimental effects on students for years to come. 

The university currently sells textbooks at cost, which it is able to do as it is not private, but should Follett acquire the bookstore, textbook prices will drastically increase. Textbooks are already an expensive necessity for students, but the possible price hikes will make textbooks an even larger burden on student budgets. With privatization there is also a risk for many programs on which many students depend to disappear, such as, book loans and sponsored student programs 

Currently the university provides some of the best selection of university gear and school supplies in the country. The university has deals with Lululemon, Nike, Osprey, FjallRaven, Herschel, and Tentree, all of which could disappear should the privatization succeed.

Students understand that the university's operating grant has been reduced 18% since 2019, and we understand that the university is in a tough position. However, the ability for the university to provide world class education to future generations is at risk. This privatization hurts accessible and affordable education, which in turn hurts Alberta — Alberta needs it's many university graduates to thrive, and this is currently at risk. 

The students of the University of Calgary need a bookstore that serves them, not the shareholders of for-profit US companies. Education should not be a luxury, where those with money can achieve a better education. Students who cannot afford these price hikes should not be expected to go further into debt just so they can have the necessary tools they need for class. Education needs to remain accessible, and part of that is making sure program materials remain affordable to students. This move by the university would have long lasting negative impacts on students for years to come. We are asking the University, it's administration and it's staff to reconsider this move towards privatization of essential program material, for the benefit of students and Albertans for generations to come.

Photo by Mariah Wilson

AUPE Petition

For more information 

Bookstore privatization raises alarm bells​

Media Release: SAIT bookstore falls victim to UCP privatization scheme​

Editorial: Bookstore privatization can’t pass the test