Is every college textbook available on the internet ?

[AL1961]

My friend Carl says that every college textbook used in every college or university in the United States is on the internet . He also says the only reason college students buy their textbooks at the college bookstore is because they'd rather not wait for those same textbooks to download from the internet .

Carl seems to really believe what he told me, he wants me find some "college textbook" information for him on the internet . I don't think every college textbook known to man is posted on the internet .

Does this make any sense ? Why would a book be available on the internet, and in a bookstore at the same time ? Why should a book be posted on the internet, when it can be in a bookstore ? Would it really take that long for a book to download from the internet ? Is Carl right ? How can I find out one way or another ? Thank you in advance for your answers .

[Rick B]

Of course they are not all available on the Internet.

[Matt]

He was misinformed and is now spreading that misinformation further. Your friend Carl is an idiot. Tell him next time he hears a rumor to look into it himself before passing it off as fact......

[Bruno]

Of course NOT! BUT, check Amazon,...Had to replace one and new it was $145. found it for $2 plus $3 shipping!

[miniaturenest817]

Some are, most are not. The latest ones are mostly not.
~
Your friend is an idiot, get a better friend. Sounds like he makes things up when he doesn't know the answer.

[Jim]

Yes, they are - but you may have to order it directly from the publisher.

Keep in mind that saying that a book is available on the internet is NOT the same thing as saying it can be read without having a physical book in front of you.