Due to a better bid for services, the Del Mar College bookstore is now under a new vendor.
The transition saw the bookstore close Oct. 25 before re-opening under new vendor Follett Higher Education Group on Nov. 2.
Six permanent and 10 temporary employees with previous vendor BibliU left wondering if they will keep their jobs under the change.
“Everyone here is kind of up in the air about having their jobs, so that’s a lot of stress, but it’s just the way things are,” said former bookstore manager Penny Hussman.
According to multiple staff members, they must reapply to retain their jobs, leading to anxiety among the group.
Hussman noted that vendor transitions are common in higher education, adding, “Follet’s been in the industry for a very long time, and so they’re going to come in and take good care of you guys,” Hussman said.
According to Hussman, Texas A&M University-Kingsville, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, and UTRGV are all going through similar transitions in operations.
The operational shift has resulted in immediate staffing reductions. Temporary employee Alexandria Wagner reported that her mother, a three-year floor manager, is among those losing their positions. “I know a lot of people lost their jobs. They’re not hiring everyone,” Wagner said, noting that displaced staff are worried about the holidays and losing income before the spring rush.
The new agreement is not yet finalized according to Director of Purchasing & Business Services David Davila, who stated in an email “the contract is still being negotiated,” as of this publication date. Because negotiations are ongoing, exact terms cannot be released.
The corporate change will alter campus retail inventory. Follett has introduced a new administrative system, replacing existing stock with its own merchandise, textbooks, and equipment. Staff members expressed early concerns that prices for graduation gowns could double, and textbook rentals remain unconfirmed.
However, Hussman stated that Follett has already assumed control of winter graduation orders to ensure commencement needs are met.
Finalized employment decisions and localized policies will be resolved once college administrators
