Two years after launching the Trojan Book Bag program, Troy University students have saved more than $10.3 million on required course materials, having a demonstrated impact on both affordability and student experience.

Through Barnes & Noble College’s First Day Complete program, implemented at TROY as Trojan Book Bag beginning in Fall 2024, students receive required course materials through the program designed to reduce costs and ensure materials are available by the first day of class. 

Across its first two years, the program has generated $10,310,950 in total savings for TROY students.

“The success of Trojan Book Bag is about more than saving students money,” said Dr. Jim Bookout, Senior Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration. “The real measure of success is that students feel more prepared, find the process easier and believe the program is helping them succeed. That is the kind of value we want to deliver to every Trojan.”

The most recent academic year accounted for $4,894,153 in student savings, with students saving an average of 53 percent on course materials, according to data presented by Barnes & Noble College.

The savings represent one measure of the program’s success. Student feedback also indicates that Trojan Book Bag is helping simplify the process of obtaining course materials and contributing to students’ preparation for the academic term.

According to the Fall 2025-Spring 2026 Review, 87 percent of students said the program saved them time when shopping for course materials because everything was available in one place. Eighty-six percent found it convenient to have their materials bundled and delivered through the program, while another 86 percent found the process was easy.

“We’re proud to partner with Troy University in advancing an approach to course materials that delivers meaningful savings while strengthening the overall academic experience for students,” said Greer Hallmark, regional manager, Barnes & Noble College. “The results and positive student feedback show the difference Trojan Book Bag is making by helping students begin each term prepared and focused on their studies while advancing TROY’s broader commitment to student success and affordability.”

The program also received strong marks for its perceived academic impact. Seventy-five percent of students said they were better prepared for the academic term with the program, while the same percentage reported that Trojan Book Bag had a positive impact on their academic success. Seventy-five percent also felt the program provided them with more affordable course materials.

Student survey results further show strong support for continuing the program with 88 percent of respondents saying they were likely to participate in Trojan Book Bag in the future, and 86 percent reporting as likely to recommend the program to other students.

Trojan Book Bag automatically enrolls students when they register for classes. Required textbooks, lab manuals, access codes and eligible digital materials are included, while students can opt out if they determine the program is not financially beneficial for them. Physical materials can be picked up at the bookstore or shipped to students, while digital materials are delivered through Canvas. 

For more information about Trojan Book Bag, visit the Trojan Book Bag website.