MSU Bookstore
125 Strand Union Building Bozeman, MT 59717, MT
(406) 994-2811
MSU Bookstore Inc. is dedicated to supporting the goals of the University by satisfying customer needs with the best possible service, products, and prices in a customer-friendly environment.
HISTORY
The MSU Bookstore began as a single clerk-serve counter in the office of the University Registrar dating back to 1931. Service was later moved to a “shop” a small room in the foyer of the Romney Gymnasium. After continued growth, MSU Bookstore moved to its current home, the basement of the Strand Union Building in the early 1940's. No matter the location, MSU Bookstore has always been more than just a place to sell books and products to students. As the only not-for-profit campus store in Montana, the goal has always been, and always will be, to lower the cost of course materials for all Montana State University students. MSU Bookstore is an independent company from the University, owned and operated by the faculty and students of the Montana State, governed by an elected board of directors including both faculty and students. Its excess revenues are rebated back to its ownership in the form of discounts on text and trade books, making MSU Bookstore a leader in lower-cost textbooks in the United States.
Over the years, the Bookstore space expanded, and now the store occupies 30,000 square feet and maintains a staff of about 50-85 full-time, part-time, and student employees. Since our start selling only a few required textbooks from a service window, we have evolved into a small department store, featuring not only required and recommended course materials, but also Bobcat logo clothing and gifts, the latest technology, health and beauty aids, school and art supplies, games, and a student favorite; snacks and candy!
VISION STATEMENT
Each MSU Bookstore employee is expected to promote an atmosphere of courtesy and respect within the MSU Bookstore team by demonstrating positive leadership skills that build up the culture within the MSU Bookstore and on campus. These skills include such things as collaborative problem-solving, using calm, inclusive speech, and practicing a teamwork mindset over a harsh or authoritative delegation style. It is also a baseline expectation that all MSU Bookstore employees celebrate our customers by engaging, advocating for, and contributing to the feeling of acceptance and inclusiveness for all MSU Bookstore customers and employees.
MSU Bookstore, Inc. is also a resource providing a comprehensive and diverse offering of goods, services, information, and advice to the University community. These resources directly and indirectly support and enhance academic course work and life within the University community. These services will be self-sustaining, sensitive, and responsive to the community and will emphasize quality and value. The Bookstore will serve as a public focal point and enhance the image of the University's and the industry's highest standards, commitment to learning and to service.
