After 20 years of being privately operated by the same manager, the university bookstore will now come under new ownership. Valadis, part of Nebraska Book Company, is taking over giving students and the bookstore some updated equipment and eventually a new look.

“We had four proposals by other companies… the little things made Valadis surface to the top,” Vice President of Finance Allen Klaus said.

Currently, Valadis operates more than 250 college bookstores. The first day of operation is set for June 1, just after buy back and before summer sessions begin. Students can expect one very notable change in the bookstore.

“A positive change is that they bring more access to used books…roughly 45 percent of used books on the shelf,” Klaus said.

More used books means a drive down in the prices at the bookstore. In addition, Valadis has donated money to the general tuition fund within OLLU, and will offer $3,000 in textbook scholarship money to students.

“I think the change will be refreshing; it will allow the bookstore to get a much-needed face lift,” Lisa Montoya, student employee at the bookstore, said.

However, Angela Delagarza, textbook and store assistant manager, explained, “Any time there is change, we should be made aware why there was a need for change. It is still uncertain what the policies will be for this new company.”

Currently there are no tangible plans for the bookstore, but funds have been allocated for updates to the building and floor plan.

According to Klaus, Valadis will pick up all current employees and hire a new manager through their company.