Our History




First Bookstore:

In 1892-93, a College Book Store was established and given a room in the Y.M.C.A. building. In 1897, it was moved to East College. Professor Charles Ferris, a former UT football player who carried significant professional duties in Engineering, urged that the store become more established. In 1901, the UT Bookstore became incorporated, and moved to South College. The profits from the bookstore went to help maintain the athletic program.


Present Day:

For over 50 years, the VolShop (formerly the UT Bookstore) has been a part of the University of Tennessee tradition, enjoying a strong and mutually beneficial relationship with the University community. As a self-supporting, University-owned, auxiliary operation, our store management team is directly responsible to our University administration, ensuring compliance with the University's mission and continuation of specialized services for students, faculty and staff.