NIU students who receive financial aid have a convenient method of buying books and school supplies at the beginning of each semester. You can use your OneCard ID at Huskie Books and Gear (815-753-1081) to purchase your books and school supplies using your student bursar account and you will be billed at a later day. Please visit the Bursar's Office website for billing and payment due dates.
Please note that only students who are receiving financial aid can use this feature.
| Semester |
Eligible Per-Semester Maximums |
Book Charge Start Date |
Book Charge End Date |
| Spring 2026 |
up to $700 |
December 15, 2025 |
January 23, 2026 |
| Summer 2026 |
up to $350 |
May 26, 2026 |
June 26, 2026 |
Huskie Books and Gear
Hours of Operation
For hours of operation, please visit Huskie Books and Gear.
Book Delivery/Pick-up Options
Books purchased online can be shipped to the mailing address provided at checkout or can be picked up in the store. NIU recommends picking up the books "in store" if you are on campus.
Book Returns
For instructions on how to return books, please visit Huskie Books and Gear return policy.
Authorized Purchases
Below you will find a list of authorized purchases using the book charge program. The OneCard Office and Huskie Books and Gears has the authority to deny any unauthorized purchases.
- Books
- School supplies
- Electronics
- Computer/Laptop
- Computer Accessories
- Printer and Ink
- Software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop)
- Apple Products (excluding Apple Watch)
- Quantity limit: You cannot purchase the same Apple item more than once in a term. You cannot resell purchased items.
Book Program Exceptions
Book credit limit increase: If your “course materials” for the term cost more than the book credit limit amount of $700, please send an email to onecard@niu.edu. Book credit limit increases will only be allowed on required course materials.
Book charge extension: If your course material is on back order or is not available to purchase at Huskie Books and Gear before the book charge period ends, please send an email to onecard@niu.edu and include your ZID, course name, book ISBN, and the reason for needing the extension.