Key Highlights
- Starting July 1, 2026, bookstores at Cosumnes River College (CRC) and Folsom Lake College (FLC) will close.
- The Los Rios Community College District is moving towards a digital-focused education model.
- Only American River College (ARC) and Sacramento City College (SCC) bookstores will remain operational after the transition.
- The district is seeking proposals for new bookstore models to enhance services across remaining locations.
Background on Los Rios Community College District
The Los Rios Community College District operates four community colleges in Sacramento, California: American River College (ARC), Cosumnes River College (CRC), Folsom Lake College (FLC), and Sacramento City College (SCC). Over the years, these institutions have adapted to changing educational landscapes, including shifts towards online learning and increased reliance on digital resources.
Reasons for Closures
The decision to close bookstores at CRC and FLC is primarily driven by a shift in student preferences post-COVID-19. Gabe Ross, the chief strategy and communications officer for Los Rios, confirmed that many students are opting for online classes, while several faculty members are utilizing free online resources. This trend has led to declining revenues at physical bookstores, making it unsustainable to operate all four locations.
“The shift towards digital learning and resource accessibility is significant,” Ross explained. “Students now have a wealth of information available through the internet, which has reduced demand for traditional textbook sales.”
Future Plans and Proposals
In response to these changes, Los Rios is seeking proposals from vendors specializing in college bookstores. The goal is to create a new model that will emphasize the two remaining in-person bookstores at ARC and SCC while offering online ordering for students across all campuses.
“We believe this new approach will not only maintain necessary services but also enhance them,” said Kaitlyn Colignon, Public Information Officer for American River College. “Our aim is to serve both our local students and those from other Los Rios campuses effectively.”
The district is also exploring ways to repurpose the physical spaces where CRC’s “Hawk’s Nest” and FLC’s “Falcon’s Roost” are located, aiming to create new facilities that will benefit students.
Community Engagement and Implications
The closures of the bookstores at CRC and FLC signal a shift towards a more digital-focused education model within the Los Rios Community College District. While this move may impact convenience for some students, it aligns with broader trends in higher education toward online resources and e-learning.
“We understand that this change might cause inconvenience initially,” Ross stated. “However, we are confident that our new approach will provide students with the tools they need to succeed in a digital age.”
The Los Rios Community College District’s efforts reflect broader trends seen across higher education institutions nationwide as they adapt to the evolving needs of their student populations. As more colleges and universities embrace online learning, similar changes may be observed in other regions.
