Returning students will battle more than the chilly weather this week. Winter book-buying season means fighting the year's largest crowd of bookworms.

Booksellers say this winter buying season may be more hectic than fall semester because students tend to return to the city only days before classes start.

"In summer it's over a three week period," said Howard Ballein, general manager at Student Book Store. "Winter buying is compacted into 10 days."

Shops were buzzing early this week as the majority of students returned to campus. It was nearly impossible to see down the aisles of SBS, 421 E. Grand River Ave., but shoppers said they were able to get in and out quickly.

Much like holiday shopping, the book rush is complete with both crowds and gifts. A large gorilla, the Ned's Bookstore mascot, will be on campus offering $5 coupons to students.

SBS will offer free pizza and pop to shoppers from 1-3 p.m. through Wednesday. Students can enter to win a moped or a trip to see "The Price is Right" in Los Angeles at The College Store, 4790 S. Hagadorn Road. The Spartan Bookstore in the International Center is offering $5 off to those who purchase more than $100 in books.

English freshman Phil Erickson took advantage of the SBS pizza giveaway as he shopped Sunday.

"Pizza is better than money," he said. "Even if I weren't buying books I would be like 'Ooh, pizza' and probably stop by."