Requesting Desk Copies

Did you know that you can request a sample copy of a textbook? (This is sometimes known as an examination or desk copy). Many publishers will gladly send you free books so that you can look at them and decide if it's what you want for your classroom. Publishers have different criteria for the books they'll send and programs they'll send to, so read each site carefully to find out if you qualify. (For example, Cengage will only send books to formal educational institutions.) You will generally need to specify which book you'd like, and you will only get one copy of each text, although some publishers will send several different books for you to see. Sometimes, only the student book will be sent and not the teacher's book.

Cambridge University Press: View the American catalog here. Contact a local sales rep to request copies here.

Intercambio: View the catalog here. Use the contact form to request sample lessons (sent via email) here.

Oxford University Press: View the catalog here. Request an examination copy here (scroll down for requirements).

Pearson Longman USA: View the catalog here. Order a sample copy here.

Tried and True ESL Resources: View the books here. Contact to request sample lessons (sent via email) here.

Sometimes, you just won't be able to get a sample copy because of the company's policy or because it's a stand-alone book rather than a textbook. These sites can help you find the lowest cost for books:

Direct Textbook - enter the ISBN or title of a book and it will search multiple sites to give you the lowest price.

Better World Books - free shipping throughout the world (but sometimes available books are limited).