FLAT ROCK, N.C. — Blue Ridge Community College has selected BibliU as its new campus store and course materials partner, becoming the 11th institution in North Carolina to join the BibliU community. This decision reflects a broader shift across the North Carolina Community College System, where institutions are replacing legacy bookstore models with solutions centered on Day 1 access, affordability, and innovative campus retail strategies.
Blue Ridge began exploring alternatives after identifying challenges with its previous course materials approach, including rising concerns around cost, delays in access to required content, and limited visibility into student engagement and performance. In addition, the College sought a partner capable of supporting a broader transformation of its campus store operations, including expanded merchandise offerings.
Following a competitive RFP process aligned with the College’s priorities, Blue Ridge selected BibliU for its proven ability to deliver Day 1 access at scale while strengthening overall bookstore performance. Key differentiators included BibliU’s fully owned eReader with seamless single sign-on, deep integration with existing campus systems, and a model designed to support long-term financial sustainability. The decision was further reinforced by strong peer references from fellow North Carolina community colleges already partnering with BibliU.
To support its course materials strategy, Blue Ridge will implement BibliU Access across both its Henderson County and Transylvania County campuses. The program provides all students with convenient access to required materials from the first day of class through a transparent, predictable flat fee billed alongside tuition. In addition to reducing costs and improving student readiness, this model provides actionable analytics and reporting that empower the College to make more informed academic and affordability decisions.
“Selecting BibliU as our new bookstore partner allows us to provide students with a cost-effective and transparent way to access their required course materials from the first day of class,” said Carolyn W. Alley, Vice President for Finance and Chief Financial Officer at Blue Ridge Community College. “With pricing based on course load, the store’s new model will remove financial and practical barriers, helping students start the semester prepared.”
In addition to expanding access to course materials, the partnership will support a broader modernization of Blue Ridge’s campus store operations, with a focus on improved customer service, enhanced eCommerce capabilities, expanded branded merchandise offerings, and sustainable auxiliary revenue that can be reinvested in the student experience.
“Our students are proud to study at Blue Ridge Community College, and the new campus store will feature a fresh selection of high-quality, College-branded apparel and merchandise that allow them to share their campus pride with the community,” said Benjamin Rickert, Director of Marketing and Communications at Blue Ridge Community College.
The partnership reflects a broader movement across North Carolina community colleges toward integrated models that simplify access, improve affordability, and more strategically align campus retail with institutional goals for student success and financial sustainability.
“Across North Carolina, institutions are rethinking how they deliver course materials and support students from Day 1,” said Dave Sherwood, CEO of BibliU. “Blue Ridge Community College’s approach exemplifies this shift, and we’re honored to support their vision.”
About Blue Ridge Community College
Blue Ridge Community College, located in western North Carolina, serves Henderson and Transylvania counties and offers more than 200 credentials across 30 areas of study. Chartered in 1969, it is part of the North Carolina Community College System and is led by President Laura B. Leatherwood. The College is committed to empowering individuals and building a competitive workforce. Learn more at blueridge.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 more than 150 institutions globally to streamline content delivery, reduce costs, enhance student success, and improve the overall academic experience. Learn more at bibliu.com.
BibliU Media Contact
Julia McKee
Senior Marketing Manager
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