Letter to the Editor: Outsourced bookstore

Dear Editor, As the student members of the Bookstore Advisory Board, appointed by ASSU, it is our duty to make known to the Bookstore the concerns and priorities of students. Over the past few years we have done our best to fulfill this charter and made great strides in providing students, faculty, staff and alumni the products and services they have requested at a fair and reasonable price. While this is an ongoing process, we are happy with the progress and continue to serve the campus community to the best of our abilities.

Despite our close interaction with the bookstore we were surprised, like many others, at the university's sudden announcement regarding the exploration of selling our bookstore. The motivations driving this inquiry and the expected outcomes for students remain unclear. Further information has not been forthcoming despite the potential financial implications for students. These concerns represent just a few of many that are still outstanding and must be addressed in order to make an informed decision that represents the best interests of students. We therefore implore the Bookstore Outsourcing Committee to keep these three points in mind while making this critical decision:

1. The best interests of students, faculty and staff must be served in whatever decision is made. We worry that the university may make a financial decision that will be borne on the back of students.

2. Transparency is key. This is truly an issue of great importance to students, who should be involved in every step of the decision-making process. We are happy about the placement of both an undergraduate and graduate student on the Bookstore Outsourcing Committee and expect their voices to be heard.

3. A decision as important as this cannot be rushed. Artificial timelines do none of us good. Let's gather the best information we can before making any decision regarding the fate of the Bookstore.

We would also like to hear what you have to say about this matter. Please contact your members of ASSU through the "Be Heard" page on their Web site. Visit: http://www2.seattleu.edu/assu/Inner.aspx?ekfrm=22250 and post your comments. ASSU Bookstore Advisory Board