Eastern Kentucky University is ending its free textbook program due to federal regulations.
EKU started the “Booksmart” program four years ago to provide free textbooks for students. The university's move comes as part of the federal changes to financial aid programs as part of Title IV of the Higher Education Act.
In a press release, EKU officials said the changes take effect July 1, 2026, and continuing to provide free books would negatively impact students’ financial aid award eligibility.
It goes on to say that textbooks will instead be provided at a discounted rate through BookSmart, starting Fall 2026. Under the new federal guidelines. They said offering discounted textbooks does not add to the Student Aid Index and therefore will not affect federal aid eligibility.
An at-cost rate for students has been negotiated between EKU and Barnes & Noble. Participating students will pay a flat $26 per credit hour for all textbooks and course materials. Estimated at $780/year, BookSmart provides a significant discount from the national average of $1,250 per year for textbooks.
Textbook charges will apply to their student bill, coordinated through Student Accounting with the EKU Barnes & Noble Bookstore. The rest of the process works the same for students—their books will be packaged before classes so they’re ready to start learning on day 1.
Students can opt out of BookSmart if they prefer to buy their books elsewhere.
EKU has set aside funding to help students who may experience undue financial hardship as a result of the change with the BookSmart discount. To qualify, students must have completed their FAFSA forms and meet standard eligibility requirements.
