DePauw officials say Slingshot to operate its cherished campus bookstore, Eli’s Books

Thursday, July 17, 2025 at 1:35 PM

By Paul Gable

When DePauw students arrive back on campus in a few weeks, they will notice a change within Eli’s Books.

DePauw officials announced a partnership with Slingshot, an Indiana-owned, family business headquartered in Marion, Ind., to operate its cherished campus bookstore, Eli’s Books.

Despite the partnership, the bookstore will continue to honor Colonel Eli Lilly’s legacy, and the adjacent Starbucks will continue to serve as a favorite gathering spot for students, faculty, alumni, and Putnam County residents. This new partnership ensures that the familiar comforts and community spirit of Eli’s remain intact while embracing new opportunities for growth and service, according to university officials.

Slingshot offers Slingshot Choice course material subscription program. This hassle-free system eliminates the stress of sourcing and purchasing textbooks, allowing students to focus on their education.

Key features of Slingshot Choice include:

Automatic Enrollment: First-time students receive all essential course materials without lifting a finger.

Cost-Effective Options: Used rental items are provided whenever possible to save students money.

Customization: Students can tailor their course material preferences anytime, anywhere.

Convenient Delivery: Materials are delivered straight to residence halls, ready for pick-up at Eli’s Books, or shipped to preferred addresses based on individual preferences.

Seamless Billing: Course materials are billed directly to student accounts, integrating smoothly with financial aid and simplifying payments.

Efficient Service: Every student receives every required material by the first day of class at an affordable price.

Slingshot is a trailblazer in the EdTech industry, with over 25 years of experience serving campuses nationwide. As a privately held, Indiana-based company, Slingshot shares DePauw’s commitment to community, service, and student success. Beyond course materials, Slingshot offers complementary services to help institutions operate campus stores, mailrooms, and print operations, tailoring solutions to meet each campus’s unique needs.