The University Bookstore has reportedly finished “phase one” of its two-phase renovation campaign, an effort which included the addition of new carpet, fresh paint, new fixtures and new register counters according to Manager Tomi Hulkko.

The DU Book Store, a branch of the corporate university bookstore chain eFollett, was brought to campus in March of last year and replaced the previously university -owned DU Bookstore in effort to increase product and merchandise selection for students and to lower costs for the university.

In addition to the added features of the bookstore, there is also a new Technology Center located where the DU Quick Copy Center used to be. The Tech Center will provide services for all computer-related needs.

Other additions include four big screen televisions displaying current events on and off campus. The textbook selection has increased as well.

“Phase two will begin in the middle of October and consists of new graphics, signage, updated lighting and a new store entrance,” said Hulkko.

Students can expect a grand re-opening of the bookstore during homecoming weekend on Oct. 26 and 27 to celebrate these new changes.

“There is a much larger selection of merchandise in the store as we have increased the amount of vendor’s being utilized, as well as expanded both our clothing and gift assortments,” Hulkko said of the larger inventory.

Students can now select from a much wider collection of DU apparel and an expanding variety of hardware, software and accessories for sale in the new Technology Center.

In regard to an increase or decrease in pricing, Hulkko said the pricing is ultimately up to the textbook publishing companies.

“Follet drives savings to students by offering choices like rental, digital and a selection of used books both in-store and online,” said Hulkko. Rental and used books are both very popular among students and can be found online at efollet.com.

According to Hulkko, students have already saved more than $155,000 this year on books by using the Rent-A-Text program.

“The central mission of the DU Bookstore is to maximize student access to the materials needed for success,” said Hulkko. He said this has been the motivation behind all of the remodeling that has already occurred and will be taking place in the near future.

Hulkko said DU students have much to look forward to.

“DU and Follett are working together to reshape assortments, explore additional services and redefine the role of the ‘campus store,” he said.

eFollett could not be reached for comment on the final price of the renovation.