MIAMI SHORES, FL—Barry University is deepening its commitment to student success and affordability through a partnership with BibliU, becoming the sixth Florida institution to adopt the solution as part of a statewide shift away from traditional bookstore models. Selected through a competitive bid process, BibliU was chosen for its ability to deliver both 30-50% cost savings and a student-centered approach to course materials and campus retail.
Previously, Barry’s course materials strategy relied on a large physical bookstore and costly print textbooks, often leading to inconsistent availability and financial strain for students. Beginning this fall, the University will implement BibliU Access, delivering all course materials digitally directly through Canvas by the first day of class. Course fees will be billed alongside tuition, allowing students to use financial aid and ensuring seamless, affordable access from the start of the term.
Nearly 80% of Barry undergraduates identify as students of color, and more than half receive Pell Grants, according to federal data. By ensuring Day 1 access and removing upfront material costs, BibliU helps eliminate barriers that disproportionately affect low-income and historically underserved students—reinforcing Barry’s dedication to expanding opportunity and readiness for all learners.
Early, consistent access to course materials is also a proven driver of retention and academic performance. At another BibliU partner institution, students with high engagement in the platform earned an average GPA one point higher than their peers, achieved the highest retention rate since Fall 2018 (77%), and persisted at nearly double the rate of light or non-users (9.5/10), according to a 2023 impact study. With the new model, Barry students can start strong and stay on track from their very first semester.
In addition to the shift in course materials delivery, Barry’s campus store will be reimagined as a student-friendly resource hub, designed for convenience, flexibility, and ease of access. The traditional bookstore will transition to a smaller, more efficient physical footprint, complemented by an upgraded online storefront. Students will be able to access:
This streamlined setup makes it easier for students to get what they need, so they can focus more on learning and less on logistics.
"Barry’s got this incredible legacy—it started as a women’s college back in 1940, and ever since, they’ve been all about making education inclusive and meaningful," said Dave Sherwood, Founder and CEO of BibliU. "What they stand for really lines up with what we’re trying to do at BibliU. We’re partnering with schools all across Florida, and Barry fits well with that mix. They’re focused on social justice, building community, and making sure students have the support they need—and we’re excited to help take that even further."
"Barry University is excited to partner with BibliU to enhance access to course materials and improve the overall student experience. This collaboration reflects our commitment to innovation, affordability, and academic success,” said Jennifer Boyd-Pugh, M.S., Vice President for University Administration, Barry University.
By adopting BibliU’s comprehensive campus store solution, Barry is creating a more affordable, efficient, and student-centered learning experience, supporting long-term success both in and beyond the classroom.
About Barry University
As South Florida’s largest private Catholic institution of higher learning and as one of the leading universities in the nation for promoting social mobility, Barry University is preparing students for the future workforce by offering them more than 100-degree programs in a variety of disciplines and giving them the tools and real-world experience that transform concepts into impact. Barry's programs center on experiential and service learning, responding to market conditions and addressing critical societal needs. Barry graduates are socially conscious leaders in many industries and in their communities. Learn more at Barry.edu.
About BibliU
BibliU is a leading provider of comprehensive campus store solutions focused on improving affordability and accessibility in higher education. Through its innovative access programs and campus store management services, BibliU partners with over 150 institutions globally to streamline content delivery, reduce costs, enhance student success, and improve the overall academic experience. Learn more at bibliu.com.
BibliU Contact
Julia McKee
Senior Marketing Manager
Email: julia.mckee@bibliu.com
Barry University Contact
Tara Marinkovic
Auxiliary Services Manager
Phone: (305) 899-3087
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Partnership brings accessible and affordable learning resources to the college’s 13,000 students
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